|
An "adult" folk dance group performed at the first Hyllningsfest
in 1941. They continued to perform at different events and at the Hyllningsfest
until about 1960. During the 1960's, the adult group disbanded as the high school
group, founded in 1963, began to grow. The adult dancers and musicians helped the
new group by serving as dance teachers and musicians. As the younger group grew in
their folk traditions and their enthusiasm, many of the parents thought it looked like fun
and formed the Adult Swedish Folk Dancers. Since then, the group has
changed their name to the Lindsborg Folkdanslag. While the new name is more
Swedish, it also avoids the occasional confusion with the high school group.
The Lindsborg Folkdanslag performed together for the first time
at Svensk Hyllningsfest in 1971. The folk dance group at present has approximately
12 couples, fiddlers, and one accordionist who perform regularly with the group.
Members come from many backgrounds and professions and enjoy meeting once
a week. As they practice, they have the opportunity to learn more about their
Swedish heritage; they also have fun while they sometimes get some energetic workouts.
Their age range - younger to older members span nearly thirty years - adds a
uniqueness to their performances.
Their folk dance interests have grown to include dances from Denmark,
Norway, and Finland, with variations of the polska, waltz, schottis, hambo, polka,
majurka, and engelska. Performances often include opportunities for audience
participation, allowing members of the group a time to share their enthusiasm with folks
of all ages.
The dancers perform in folk costumes made to resemble what their relatives
wore more than a century ago. They are often called upon to include a Swedish-style
fashion show within their performance schedule.
The Lindsborg Folkdanslag has become a frequent performer at folk
festivals and special events - both Swedish and American - throughout the state.
They have also traveled to surrounding states, including Missouri, Colorado, Oklahoma,
Arkansas, and Nebraska. Occasionally the group has traveled to Sweden. Their
performances, usually at least two a month, offer opportunities for sharing a most special
heritage. They are enhanced by their energy, their enthusiasm, and their good humor.
|
