Weaving together movement and history, Mark Matthews teaches community dances like squares, contras and circles or couples dances like the jitterbug, waltz, two-step and foxtrot while explaining the history behind the dances. He focuses on how Native American, European and African styles of dance and music blended together to form America’s unique popular culture. Dancing encourages eye contact, is a way to playfully interact, and teaches respectful physical contact in a setting that includes both genders. Like sports, dancing improves physical coordination and cardiovascular health, as well as relieving tension and strengthening social bonds.

The MSU Extension Service – Powder River County and the Arthritis Exercise Program are hosting Montana Conversation “Dance, Dance, Dance” with Mark Matthews on November 13th and November 14th in Broadus. The first program is at the High School Auditorium on November 13th at 5:00 p.m., and the second program is at the Powder River Senior Center on November 14th at 11:15 p.m. The presentation is free and open to any and all ages of people who like music and like to dance. Partners are not required.

Matthews will be teaching Broadus Elementary, Junior High and High School music classes on November 13th and 14th. At the end of Matthew’s workshops with students on November 13th, community members are invited to the public dance in the evening where children share their new skills and knowledge with parents and friends. Again, both community events are free and open to the public.

Mark Matthews is a writer, historian, dance caller/instructor, officer with the Missoula Folklore Society, and writing instructor at The University of Montana College of Technology.