by Kay Mercer

Remembering Dance Hall Days

Dunedin Public Libraries are gathering stories from people who can recall frequenting Dunedin's Dance Halls.

The project is part of the Libraries' "Save Our Stories" project for the He Purapura Marara Scattered Seeds archive.

This online archive is something of a time capsule and the Libraries provide a free service, supporting the community to add their memories and mementos to share with the world.

"We'd love to hear from people who met their future spouse at one of the Joe Brown Dances at the Town Hall for example," says Jill Bowie, one of the archive Coordinators. "Joe Brown's dances ran for 30 years, so there must be a goldmine of stories to share."

Her colleague, Kay Mercer, is keen to hear from anyone who remembers the music of the day. "I wonder if some of the band members who played at the dances are still out there, and can share a tale or two about their memories of the time," she says. "If anyone has photos, tickets, posters or has stories to share, please get in touch with us."

The team plan to contact Activity Coordinators at residential homes in Dunedin, as many of their residents may have memories of nights out at the dance halls. Jill and Kay will also be promoting the project, and sharing stories, on the Recollections Radio show Mondays at 11am on OAR, 105.4FM or 1575AM.

For more information about the project call 03 474 3690 and ask for Jill Bowie or Kay Mercer or email library@dcc.govt.nz. You can also pop into any of our Libraries and leave your contact details for one of the team to get in touch with you.