Looking for a new hobby? How about trying square dancing – Standard-Times

Looking for a new hobby? How about trying square dancing – Standard-Times

looking-for-a-new-hobby?-how-about-trying-square-dancing-–-standard-times


John Geen


Promenade Squares

Published 6:10 AM EDT Aug 13, 2019

At this time I would like to talk of a location in San Angelo.

A little house by the river. There are no fancy signs or neon lights. It is a simple cinder block building at the end of a very short street and nestled in the bend of the quiet Concho River. If you have driven Veterans Memorial Drive you have seen the dancing silhouettes in green. That is the club house of the last remaining square dance group in San Angelo.

There is a long and storied history of square dance in this city, but, I do not want to bore you with what is past. Today I wish to look with some optimism to the future.

At this time each year the square dance community launches a recruiting effort to attract those seeking something different to do. A new social adventure. Yes, we wish to introduce more of you to the skill of square dancing. There was a time when a single ad in this newspaper would entice a large group to come check us out. Alas – that is no more. Why you ask? I don’t know.

Over the years I have seen many new faces arrive at our open house as we begin a program for new dancers, each with great hopes of finding a life changing experience. There have been many singles looking for companionship, married couples looking for something they can enjoy together and others just want an aerobic activity to share with others, and so on.

During this program for new dancers I have seen interaction among single dancers evolve from acquaintance, to friendship, to relationship. I have seen frail marriages turn to bonded relationships. I have witnessed introverted people become socializers. I have seen many pursuers of social adventure become fulfilled and content. All these life changing experiences I have seen from behind the caller’s mic. It has given me many rewarding years.

I have oft questioned what motivates persons to join a dance club, a social service club, or a church group. Is it for a temporary escape from those four living room walls that close in on us each evening? Is it a desire for recognition outside of our everyday activities? Is there some longing to achieve? Is it a search for some uncertain need?

After much careful observation I conclude it is a mixed bag and feel I may just be holding the bag. I hold it open in hope that you may drop in to 618 Locust St. Watch for our ads.

Your benefits await you!

John Geen is the caller of the Promenade Squares dance club in San Angelo and owns a square dance studio where lessons are offered annually. Learn more at promenadesquares.com

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