A Look At The Insanely Long Dance Marathons Of The 1930s

Dance Marathons: A Historical Glimpse into a Bygone Trend

Dance marathons, a cultural phenomenon that captured the hearts and spirits of many, were especially popular from the mid-1920s through the late 1930s. As the allure of dancing the night away continues to hold sway in nightclubs around the globe today, the intensity and endurance of dance marathons from the past century present a stark contrast to our current day festivities.

The Rise of Dance Marathons

Dance marathons began as fun, social competitions where dancers would vie to see who could last the longest on the dance floor. The trend gained significant traction in 1923, sparked by the remarkable feat of Alma Cummings, who set a record by dancing continuously for 27 hours. This record was soon eclipsed by Vera Sheppard, who danced for an astounding 69 hours. Despite the growing popularity, these events were not without their critics. For instance, the American Society of Teachers of Dancing vehemently opposed them, arguing that they were dangerous and demeaned the art of dance.

The Great Depression and Dance Marathons

The onset of the Great Depression in the 1930s saw dance marathons evolve into much more grueling events. During this time, organizers exploited the economic desperation of participants, who competed for cash prizes that could provide critical financial relief. These marathons were no longer just a test of stamina but became showcases of human endurance under extreme stress. Participants danced for hours on end, with minimal breaks for rest and sustenance, sometimes lasting weeks or even months.

Impact and Controversy

As the popularity of these marathons grew, so did the scrutiny. Observers and critics began recognizing the physical and emotional toll these events took on participants. The marathons could lead to serious health issues, including exhaustion, hallucinations, and long-term physical ailments. This awareness brought about a decline in their popularity, and by the late 1930s, the trend had largely fizzled out, although its legacy continued to influence public gatherings and endurance contests.

Legacy and Charitable Influence

Interestingly, some of the later marathons were held for charitable causes, turning a controversial spectacle into a means of raising awareness and funds for various issues. These events served as precursors to modern-day charity drives like dance-a-thons, where participants engage in long-duration dancing not for personal gain but to support philanthropic efforts.

Popular Dances of the 1920s

• Charleston: Perhaps the most iconic dance of the 1920s, the Charleston is synonymous with the era. It originated from African American communities in the South and became a national craze after appearing in the Broadway show “Runnin’ Wild” in 1923. Its lively, flapping movements to quick tempos captured the exuberant spirit of the Jazz Age.

• Fox Trot: Popularized earlier in the 1910s, the Fox Trot continued to be a favorite through the 1920s. It was a smoother and more elegant dance, allowing couples to glide across the dance floor to ragtime and jazz music.

• Lindy Hop: Emerging towards the end of the 1920s, the Lindy Hop was a fusion of jazz, tap, breakaway, and Charleston. It originated at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem, New York, and was characterized by its athletic style, including flips and throws.

Music Styles of the 1920s

• Jazz: Dominating the decade, jazz evolved through various styles, including Dixieland and Chicago-style, characterized by improvisation, syncopated rhythms, and complex instrumental solos. Jazz icons like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington began their rise to fame during this era.

• Blues: Blues music also gained popularity, with artists like Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey expressing the African American experience through poignant, soulful songs.

Popular Dances of the 1930s

• Swing Dancing: As an evolution of the Lindy Hop, swing dancing became wildly popular in the 1930s. It was more than just a dance style; it was a social activity that brought people together during tough economic times.

• Rumba: The 1930s also saw a fascination with Latin American music and dance styles, with Rumba becoming particularly popular in the United States as a romantic and sensual dance that offered an exotic escape from everyday struggles.

Music Styles of the 1930s

• Big Band and Swing Music: Big band music and swing, led by bandleaders like Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, and Count Basie, defined the sound of the 1930s. This style was characterized by a strong rhythm section, a brass section, and woodwinds, playing arranged music that made people want to dance.

• Country Music: During the 1930s, country music began to reach a wider audience, with artists like the Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers, whose songs reflected the trials and tribulations of the American rural poor.

Reflections on a Bygone Era

Today, the idea of dance marathons might seem extreme or even quaint, but they are a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for endurance and the social dynamics of past eras. While modern nightclubs still echo with the beats that compel us to dance, the dance marathons of the 1920s and 1930s remind us of a time when dancing was not just recreation but also a poignant symbol of survival and resilience during one of America’s toughest times.