by Shelley Bennett
Back in the 1900s, Lassen County teens were introduced to something called the Video Dance Party. Starting in the spring of 1988, Video Dance Parties were held at the Sierra Theatre, utilizing a newly built DJ booth, light system, disco ball and smoke machine.
They became very popular because it mimicked what it felt like to go to a club. Loud music with visuals and a crowd pulsing to the beat, getting into a groove, working up a sweat. It was glorious.
It felt like you were breaking the rules because we weren’t in the student center with half of the overhead lights on and your crusty, dusty English teacher selling tickets at the door.
The Video Dance parties lasted for several years, including one cruel summer where I had to work at every. single. one. of. them.
After that, the novelty was over for me, but the lighted sign remained on the side of the theatre building, giving hope to future generations that they would return.
Thanks to Mike and Carolyn Smith, that time is now.
On Saturday, August 29th, Lassen County high schoolers (heck, Plumas and Modoc counties too) are invited to try out a new generation of video dance parties at “Neon Night” held at the Sierra Theatre from 8:30 to 11:00p.m.
The lights and sound have been upgraded and thankfully the smoke machine was retired. DJ Talbot will be scratchin’ at the turntable (or probably just clicking his playlist), mixin’ tunes, and providing entertainment.
Admission is $10 and will go toward the renovation and upkeep of the Susanville Performing Arts Center. Concessions will also be available to purchase.
A common refrain in our town is, “Teenagers don’t have anything to do.” Here’s a solution! Encourage the teens you know to check it out, even if they don’t like to dance. It’s time to put down our phones and cut loose!
Remember when news was ‘newsy’? When you read about weddings, family events and engagement announcements in the newspaper? If you have something that might be newsworthy, please submit it to [email protected] and I’ll do my best to include it here in “The Good Stuff.”
