A Step Back into the 1920s at Messingham Village Hall
On Saturday evening, Mick Barwick, Bill K. and I packed our cameras and headed to Messingham Village Hall to photograph a very different kind of event.
The evening had been organised by Liz to raise money for Breast Cancer Research, bringing together people who share a love of music, dancing and, of course, dressing in the fashions of the 1920s. From the moment we arrived it was obvious that this was more than simply a themed event. There was a genuine sense of community, with everyone eager to chat, laugh and enjoy each other’s company while supporting a worthwhile cause.
I arrived a little early and was welcomed with a much-appreciated cappuccino made by Liz’s friend, Stuart. As we chatted he explained that some people come to these events to listen to the music, while others come specifically to dance.
“To dance,” he said.
At that point I wasn’t entirely sure what he meant. Surely everyone just gets up and has a bit of a shuffle?
I soon discovered just how wrong I was.
Before the music started we had transformed a small room just off the entrance hall into a portrait studio. Using a backdrop and a large mahogany leather chair that we found in the foyer, guests wandered in to have their photographs taken as they arrived. The deep red leather complemented the black suits, feathered headbands, sparkling dresses and vintage accessories beautifully, giving the portraits something of the glamour associated with the era.
Once everyone had arrived I wandered into the main hall as the band struck up their first tune.
Within moments the dance floor was full.
Rather than simply moving to the music, the dancers glided confidently around the floor in carefully choreographed routines that they clearly knew by heart. It was fascinating to watch. Couples flowed around one another with an elegance and confidence that can only come from many years of dancing together.
Meanwhile Liz barely stopped for a moment.
As organiser she seemed to be everywhere at once, serving drinks, preparing food, greeting guests and somehow keeping everything running smoothly. I enjoyed an excellent piece of pork pie, together with crisps and peanuts, while watching the dancing continue throughout the afternoon.
Looking around the room, I suspect many of those taking part were over sixty-five, with several well beyond that. Yet the energy they displayed was remarkable. Time after time they circled the hall with smiles on their faces, seemingly untouched by the passing hours.
For me it was something of a busman’s holiday.
During the 1980s and 1990s I spent countless weekends photographing dinner dances, military regimental balls and officers’ mess events. Back then I was there because it was my job.
Saturday felt completely different.
This time I wasn’t working to earn a living. I was there to enjoy the event, spend time with friends and document a community coming together for a good cause.
Photography often gives us a glimpse into worlds we might otherwise never experience, and this was one of those occasions.
It also left me wondering.
What is it about dressing in the fashions of a century ago, listening to music from another era and learning dances that have been passed from generation to generation?
Is it simply an opportunity to escape everyday life for a few hours?
Or is it something deeper?
Perhaps it is a reminder that while fashions, technology and society continue to change, our desire to gather together, share music, laugh with friends and create memories remains exactly the same.
Our thanks go to Liz and everyone involved for making us so welcome, and congratulations on organising such an enjoyable afternoon in support of Breast Cancer Research. We hope our photographs help preserve the memories of what was a wonderful community event.
