History of Indy Dancers

In 1982 in the wake of the disco era, the “hustle” was still a popular dance.

Several venues around Indianapolis were THE places to go to “hustle” and have

fun. It was not unusual to see the same familiar faces at these venues. A small

group of those dancers, including Bob Lyon, Ray Creek, and Ken Yarnell,

decided to start a weekly dance club in which people could dance, share dance

steps and just have fun.

So in 1983, the Indy Dancers dance club was formed, which was mostly a disco

club at the time. They often met at Indianapolis Indiana nightclubs, Quincy's, Rafferty’s Rico's, Excaliburs,

Roadway Inn, and Rosa Coronas. Also, a monthly newsletter informed members

where the club would be meeting.

Through the years, Indy Dancers evolved to include ballroom, Latin and swing

dances. In 2002, the club became incorporated and was established as a non-

profit organization.

Today, Indy Dancers is among the largest and oldest dance clubs in

Indianapolis. It is not associated with any commercial dance schools or studios.

Indy Dancers members meet every Tuesday night, along with the first and third

Saturday of the month dancing to music of their own DJ at one of six different

venues around the city: Starlite Ballroom, Eastside Moose, Greenwood Moose,

Keystone Knights of Columbus, 8 Seconds and Serendipity. Admission to the

dances also includes a half-hour group lesson by Scott and Yulia Shook, two of

the city’s top dance pros.

However, the club’s motto and purpose has remained the same for 30 years:

“We dance just for the fun of it!” People who attend Indy Dancers events are not

only provided the opportunity to learn to dance but to just have fun. In fact, our

dances are considered parties!

Everyone is welcome to join Indy Dancers. After 30 years, the club is still going

strong and members are still having fun. Check out www.IndyDancers.com.