Dec. 9 Swing Dance Social brings dancing and holiday cheer
The holiday season will be in full swing (pun intended) when Moabites and the surrounding community come together to learn to swing danceāand youāre invited.
The Moab Swing Dance communityās annual Holiday Swing Dance Social will take place on Saturday, Dec. 9. There will be a beginner lesson at 7 p.m. followed by social dancing from 8 to 10 p.m., with holiday-themed music (think Louis Armstrongās Christmas album). According to event organizer Katie Grauel, it will be a festive time full of joy.
āNo experience or partner is necessary,ā Grauel said. āThe whole point of swing dance is that itās a social dance: You can ask different people to dance, and meet people and socialize.ā
The swing dance club was started in 2016 at the now-closed Rio Bar by Kira Withrow, a fellow dancer Grauel knew from Denver. It was moved to the Moab Arts and Recreation Center in 2017 to be more inclusive to people under 21, and for people who want a different atmosphere.
Grauel started teaching lessons before the dance sessions to build swing dance skills in the community. Every Wednesday at 7 p.m., curious community members can come by the MARC for a lesson.
āJust showing up and participating may push their comfort zone, and may be something people have never thought theyād try,ā Grauel said. Itās this spirit of community that keeps Grauel organizing events and teaching the class every week.
Another special element of the swing dancing community is that itās cross-generational, providing opportunities for people of very different ages to mingle. āWe have people from ages 20 to 80,ā Grauel said.
This seasonal social dance happens at a time when the bitter atmosphere outside begs us to gather for sweet times together.
āWhen itās dark out, doing something active is hard. Having an activity that is social, active, musical, festive, and lively is a great way to bring in the holiday season,ā Grauel said.
Even if you are self-conscious about your dancing skills, ācome anyways,ā she said. āIf you can walk, you can dance!ā
Festive attire is encouraged at the Holiday Dance. āWhether a reindeer onesie or a sparkly dress, either are great,ā Grauel said.
The suggested donation is $10.
Next article:
Meeting at a glance: Grand County Commission, Nov. 28, 2023
____________