Dedicated to the advancement of Rock 'n' Roll dance styles around the world.





McLaren Vale Rocks

16/11/2013
Category: general

McLaren Vale Rocks Around The Clock


McLaren Vale Rocks
Gareth explains what is going to happen
Teaching around eighty people how to dance Rock n Roll in forty-five minutes isn't the easiest task. But, to a committed dance teacher who really wants to see our wonderful activity preserved and gaining popularity, it's definitely worth the effort.

On 9th November 2013, a 1950s Rock n Roll fundraiser was held in the Institute Hall at McLaren Vale, South Australia. The guests were mainly young people in their early twenties. Most had little dance experience, but they fairly bubbled with energy and enthusiasm. A group of experienced dancers also attended. That was great, as they could show the learners how the dance should really look.

McLaren Vale Rocks
Let's give it a try!


The town is the heart of South Australia's famed Southern Vales wine region, home to Hardy's Tintara winery and dozens of others.

Despite that, organiser Bonnie Dowie opted for an alcohol-free event. The night lost absolutely nothing for lack of booze. In fact, to see young people stone cold sober having a fabulous time makes a very refreshing change in this day and age.

Ace band Mack Brown Rox waited patiently while Gareth taught the fun-loving group the techniques of basic overheard turns and American push-spins. They then fired up the crowd with some hard-rockin' great songs for the remainder of the evening.

After the brief lesson, lots of the beginners could perform the moves reasonably well. Most pleasingly, the group overall showed considerable interest in attending formal dance lessons, though not with Gareth as they live too far away. No matter, it was a night of great fun. That's what makes life worth living.

The fundraiser was held by Jolly Good Events for a Ugandan school.

All photos courtesy of Jon Avila.Visit his Facebook pageto see all the photos.

Mack Brown Rox
Mack Brown Rox up some great music

McLaren Vale Rox
Experienced dancer Terry helps Gareth to demonstrate technique.
McLaren Vale Rocks
Specialised help





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