Lynne Pledger: We must revive multi-generational activities

For a dozen years I played for contra dances with a group in central Massachusetts. Several times a year we hosted family-friendly dances that were free for children and seniors. Some seniors came just to listen and watch. We found callers who were good at engaging children and people who were willing to underwrite these community-building events.

The children were so excited by the music, they would bob or jump in place. Experienced dancers shepherded beginners through simple contra dances with frequent outbreaks of hilarity. Often a circle dance from some other dance tradition was included, and always a couple of waltzes. (The waltzing seniors were so handsome and graceful!) Sometimes just before or after intermission, we sang a familiar group song. In the second half of the evening, when the youngest ones had gone home to bed or were dozing in the lap of a parent, we played classic contra or English country dance tunes. This was an opportunity for skilled dancers to move seamlessly through right-hand stars, allemande left, and ladies’ chain.

Multi-generational activities are disappearing from our culture. (Other examples: ice-skating on ponds, campfire singing, charades.) Now when generations get together, someone puts on a movie for the kids. The children don’t even know what they’re missing.

When I attended a Guiding Star Grange dance several years ago — after a couple of decades away — I recognized dancers and musicians from years back who were still at it. But the dances had not attracted new people. Perhaps interest could be reestablished by planning some dances for all ages and abilities. A different kind of fun!

Lynne Pledger

Shelburne Falls