Well, the promoted one in the plaza just did not happen. It got changed at the last minute by the powers that be to a Mothers Day celebration. Mothers Day is 10 May regardless of the day, and this El Danzon was Saturday 25 May… ahh Mexico. Moving forward to Monday 3 June. The Tercera Edad only meets, officially, on Mondays – although it is open for the seniors to use when the Director, Sr Cirino is out there tending the allotment with its growing food harvest, used to give/feed the seniors – which obviously is just about every day!
So the majority of the members – and yes, the majority are women – were all present in spotless, neatly pressed clothes (how do they achieve that?), waiting with eager anticipation for the Danzon to begin. It started with all due dignity – and ONE very serious Senor! (The other Senors were sat back under the tree enjoying the show). But soon the music became “Camden Star” stuff… I have seen the kids out at the arroyo dancing to this – and now the seniors! Doesn’t do anything for me. But I digress. So – it’s a democratic audience appreciation – the least applause for each highlighted couple, and you’re voted out. (It’s BC – Before Cowell).
Finally the participants having been progressively whittled down – many applauding themselves – we had an overall winner and a runner up. Prizes were presented by the local Diputado, Omar – as in his campaign slogan: Omar es Mi Amigo. The serious couple got 2nd prize, a kitchen appliance each and 100 pesos. The winning ladies got a good quality fan and 200 pesos. I understand prizes were provided by Sr Omar. He is pictured on the left of this photo, and the Director of TE, Sr Cirino is on the right. Everyone had a great fun time – music, dancing – the “oldies” were dancing before most of you were born!