Our Last Night in the Block Party!

The Block Party. It's a loft-like space in Potrero Hill, just around the corner from the Metronome's main ballroom. There are benches along three walls, a fully mirrored fourth wall, and a high, slanting ceiling with exposed rafters and a disco ball. The deejay booth sits in the back left corner. Just beyond it, there's a kitchenette, and beyond that, there's a staircase leading up to a mezzanine that overlooks the main floor. The color scheme? Purple and turquoise. Dance-related art on the walls? Yes.

Diane Jarmolow opened the doors to the Block Party in 1995 for Paul and Sharon at the start of the swing renaissance. Many teachers have followed in their footsteps, including our beloved Autumn LaVarta.

Just think of all the dancing feet--night after night, year after year--that boogied on the smooth Block Party floor. Think of all the swingouts, the inside turns and Frankie kicks, all the snowballs and birthday jams. Think of the rush you felt when your favorite swing song came on, or when you checked yourself out in the mirror mid-dance and thought you looked pretty damned good. Think of all the friendships that were made and the couples who met (or re-met) in this very room. Think of what this space has meant to you.

We're excited about our new location, but we're sad to see the Block Party go, and it deserves a farewell befitting our warm memories. This Friday is the last night of dancing this floor will ever see, so come out this Friday and help us tear it apart with our swing shoes.