Jacob Capron
Staff Writer
It has been a full century since America was in the throws of the infamous Roaring 20’s, and to celebrate, the East Coast Swing Club and the University of Wyoming’s Jazz Ensemble, are hosting a ‘Return to the ‘20’s’ dance.
While these dances have been organized annually for the past six years, this dance will mark 100 years since the Roaring 20’s, making the dance a centennial celebration of the era.
“You get to see history and how they used to celebrate and have fun… nowadays there’s not much dancing,” said Chloe Winkler, the East Coast Swing Club’s Treasurer.
In the 100 years since the Roaring 20’s, one might wonder how 2020 might compare to the decade known for its exuberant parties and political strain.
Winkler said she believed the 2020’s will be full of energy, just like the 1920’s. Morgan Grossdidier, the East Coast Swing Club’s President, said the 2020’s will be like the 1920’s, and prove that Americans can stick together.
With the notable similarities between the decades, there are also notable changes. The most obvious change is the technological aspect of society. Both Grossdidier and Winkler talked about how many young people are using technology, smartphones and social media platforms instead of more old fashioned ways of socializing.
“It’s easier to use technology instead of going to school or [a] club,” said Vice President Savannah Erikson. “I see both sides. On one [hand] it makes it harder because it’s not face to face and dancing is face to face; on the other hand [social media] helps get the word out.”
This will be the first time the East Coast Swing Club will be hosting the event in conjunction with the University of Wyoming Jazz Ensemble, making it the first event to feature a live performance. Just like the good old days of swing dance in the 1920’s.
