The Swing Society of Detroit

The new national surge of interest in ballroom dancing brought on by new television series, such as Dancing with the Stars, has made me wonder if people realize that during the first half of the 20th century Detroit had huge beautifuly built ballrooms that would be packed with men and women who danced all kinds of versions of swing throughout the night. Swing dancing used to be a VERY popular past-time that would bring people together socially and let them forget about whatever life worries were troubling them (especially during The Depression). 

In our current society, I have come to realize that we don't always take a break from our stressful routine lives to play like past generations have. Play can be defined as any activity that brings joy into your life; whether it be reading, jogging, or horseback riding. It has been scientifically proven that people who play are more likely to feel fulfillment in their lives. Furthermore, while Detroit has become rundown and the beautiful ballroom buildings have been destroyed or decayed, it has lost its radiant swagger that swing dancing used to bring to it. All in all, what made Detroit great was it's spirited citizens. I wish that these great swing dance buildings were still around for us because I believe that we would have a more happy, united and carefree Detroit.