SOUTHWICK – The Ranch Golf Club’s rustic 1897 renovated turn-of-the-century barn is the perfect backdrop for the Oct. 31 second annual Olde Time Barn Dance, sponsored by Southwick Senior Citizens, Inc.
Committee members met Thursday at The Ranch to discuss last minute logistics and they encourage area residents to consider a twirl or two on the dance floor.
“I am a total novice at dancing,” said Patricia McMahon. “Our first dance fundraiser was so much fun and no one took it so serious. We just laughed all night.”
Joan Perkins-Smith, who is serving as chair of the event, said the barn dance is not a “Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers evening.”
“We encourage everyone to bring their family,” said Perkins-Smith. “It’s a dance party. Everyone can take part.”
Gene King of Huntington, well-known in this area for his calling skills, will serve as instructor for the evening.
“The dances will be mostly circle and line dancing,” said Perkins-Smith. “Someone does not need dance experience to feel comfortable.”
Perkins-Smith said that King will discuss the dance step and then instruct those on the wood dance floor how to proceed.
“Gene promises to choose many dances that first-timers will find fun and easy to do,” she said.
Perkins-Smith added that unlike most other dances, one does not need a partner to participate.
“The circle dances and line dances can include all dancers in the barn,” she said.
Perkins-Smith said a barn dance is associated with family-oriented or community-oriented events, usually for people who do not normally dance.
“The dancing does not require that all dancers be man and woman partners,” she said.
The women hope that this “fun” fundraiser will build on last year’s event which drew a crowd of almost 70.
“Dancers at last year’s event ranged in age from 11 to 65 and older,” said Perkins-Smith. “Once the music started, the barn was filled with dancers.”
McMahon said that since the Ranch’s barn can accommodate 170, committee members are “hopeful” they will sell out this year.
Since the event is planned on Halloween, the women also said that families should consider this venue as a safe place to bring one’s children.
“We encourage everyone who wishes to dress in costume to do so,” said McMahon.
Maria Gallo, also on the event committee, said she too encourages area residents to consider coming out for the fun evening.
“It’s something to do, it’s a lot of fun, and it’s a good way for friends to spend an evening together,” said Gallo.
Perkins-Smith echoed those sentiments.
“We want to put unity back in community,” she said.
As the days creep closer to the festive evening, the women are energized that area residents will come out for a night of enchantment – complete with decorations including a lot of pumpkins.
“We are planning a family event,” said Perkins-Smith. “It’s a chance to be with parents and grandparents, and build a lasting memory.”
McMahon said the dance is also a chance for families to be “unplugged” from technology for a few hours.
“People are living in isolation,” said McMahon. “The dance gives us a chance as a community to come together.”
Individual tickets are $12 and family pricing is $30 for the 7 to 9:30 p.m. event. Tickets are available at Moolicious, the Southwick Senior Center, or at the door. All proceeds will benefit the Southwick Senior Center.
Light appetizers throughout the evening will include fresh fruit, cheese and crackers, round rye filled with spinach dip, vegetable platters, and Swedish and marinara meatballs. A cash bar will be available.
Raffle tickets will also be on sale that evening for a fall themed patchwork quilt made by Gallo which will be displayed. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5. The winning ticket will be drawn at the senior center Dec. 18.
“This event is open to all ages,” said Perkins-Smith. “Join us for line dances, circle dances, or just sit on the sidelines and clap your hands and tap your feet.”
