Fun Dancing With John Wargowsky

Square Dance at Malabar Farm - May 2

I had been thinking of going to one of these dances for a couple of years but never committed my schedule to it. As I drove to Malabar Farm I was reminded of God's splendor through admiring His natural creation exemplified in the beauty of the rolling hills, cattle grazing on fresh green grass and sunshine.

When I arrived, I first noticed a number of young people visiting and walking on a hillside outside the barn. As I neared the barn I could hear the music being played by the Back Porch Swing Band. The dancing had already begun. I was amazed that the barn was already filled with squares and more were observing the dancing. Nearly every person had a smile on his/her face.

Tom McConohay was calling to the live music of the Back Porch Swing Band.  Since I am usually calling the dances, it was a good experience to observe another talented individual display his craft. The audience included a mix of novice and experienced dancers. People were listening to Tom as he taught the dances. It was obvious that the experienced dancers were helping the newer dancers, guiding themthrough the motions to assure each set would have an enjoyable time.

As I looked around the barn I saw familiar faces from past experiences with Ohio Farm Bureau, Ohio Singles in Agriculture, Buckeye Leadership Workshop and Alpha Gamma Sigma Fraternity.

Eventually I had the chance to dance with a good friend I met at Buckeye Leadership Workshop a number of years ago. Fellow dancers welcomed us and made us feel comfortable. We were all helpful to each other, encouraged each other, and pushed and prodded each other into the right direction when needed.

In between square dances, the Back Porch Swing Band played songs that many danced to. These included line dances, jitterbugs, slow dances and more. It's enjoyable to watch people get on the dance floor and creatively express themselves.

Each dance, each caller, each dance leader, each collection of dancers provides a unique and enjoyable experience. If you would like to stay informed of similar dance opportunities throughout Ohio, consider joining the Square,Round and Line Dancing in Ohio Facebook Group that recently started. You will receive messages from me and other cooperating callers and dance leaders. Feel free to contribute your suggestions for additional dances that should be listed.

Go to www.malabarfarm.org to see when the next dance will be held.

John Wargowsky