Many thanks to Ashley Bieber, Rice Lake Public Library, for this guest blog post!
A couple of months ago I was introduced to an Americorps
volunteer that is in town through November. It turns out she was very
interested in folk dancing and had taught at a diversity-appreciation youth
camp out east last summer. She wondering if the library would be interested
in hosting a program. I said "sure!"
She was able to get a LIVE string band (Second Wind String
Band) to come for a Friday night Family Folk Dance night. We did a
variety of European and American dances. It was a great all ages
program!
I was really worried because the week prior no one had asked
about it or displayed interest in my signs. But lo and behold we had a
nice group of 40 kids and adults show up. Everyone had a great time, and
it was so nice to have live music in the library!
One interesting thing I noticed is that some kids that
usually aren't fond of "free" dancing were able to participate
comfortably because they had directions to follow.
Three cheers for getting in touch with the community and
giving something a try!
Also, the Americorps volunteer seems open and interested in
on-going series programs as well as dances again. So if anyone in the
area is interested in having something similar I could pass along their
information!
As someone who actually does geek family folk dances, I can tell you that this is a super fun intergenerational event, and a great way to expose people to some great live music!
Labels: dance, intergenerational programs, music
