Dunedin dance hall days

This project explores memories of the dance halls of Dunedin and local country dances in the district, with a particular focus on the Joe Brown dances at Dunedin Town Hall, and the Harry Strang dances at St Kilda Town Hall and the bands who played at them. Dances played a vital part in Dunedin's social history, as for many decades these were the only place people could meet prospective marriage partners and socialise with their peers. Strictly alcohol-free venues provided a safe environment for young singles to get together, and the music, atmosphere and fun are still remembered to this day.

The admission price for the first Joe Brown Dance was 1/6d for women and 2/- for men. However, the day Joe's horse, Reformed, won the Wellington Cup, he let everyone into that night's dance for free.

We had teachers there who would demonstrate all the new dances. My idea was to teach a new dance every week. - Joe Brown

Musicians who played at the Dunedin, the St Kilda and the South Dunedin Town Halls, included Harry Strang (Harry Strang Dance Band) and Roly Wright (Embassy Six, Roly Wright All Stars). For this project we were able to talk to both Harry's son, Jim, and to Roly Wright himself about their memories of the dances. The Town Hall dances featured other bands, including the Georgians under Dick Lamb; the Troupadores under Oscar Gustafson; and the Ramblers led by Bill McKerrow. Musicians who performed at the Joe Brown dances include Percy Miller (pianist); Ross (King Slim) Jordan (Typhonns); Evelyn Bovett (singer).

There have been several reunions for the Town Hall dances, including one on 31st May, 1974. This was called to support the making of a television documentary on Joe Brown's life by the New Zealand Broadcasting Service, to give the documentary an authentic background. Another reunion was held in 1979. 

Those who contributed to this project with oral history interviews recalled fond memories, and more than a few tears were shed in the recording of these recollections, as participants were transported back to the days of their youth. 

References:
"Take Your Partners... Just Like Old Times", Otago Daily Times, 1/6/74