By Isabel Costian and Noah Pokorney
Sophomore Anna Maupin made a beeline for the dance floor as the first few notes of “Jailhouse Rock” began playing out of the oversized speakers. Maupin and her plaid-covered friends laughed and danced to the 1957 Elvis Presley hit as strobe lights danced across the walls of the Western-themed hall.
Maupin, along with many other freshmen and sophomores, said she enjoyed the Barn Dance on Saturday at The Southern Cross Ranch. The Booster Club-sponsored dance was the first of its kind at the school.
“The location was a lovely, large, open area which gave a welcoming feeling,” Maupin said. “The dance was more laid-back, which was comfortable.”
Modeled after the upperclassmen’s Carousel of Roses dance, the Sadie Hawkins Barn Dance was designed exclusively for freshmen and sophomores where girls ask boys to the dance.
“As we entered RHS, we were surprised that the only event freshmen could attend was Homecoming,” PTA member Laura Dodgen said. “My kids had a great time and were bummed that there was nothing else offered for them. My son suggested the creation of a new dance. Several parents started talking and the plans began.”
Music ranged from line dances, like Cha-Cha Slide and Cupid Shuffle, to rap, hip hop, the Beach Boys, Elvis and Lorde (“Royals”). Students also played poker, foosball and air hockey.
“It was lots of fun to dance and hang out with my friends,” sophomore Caroline Cluiss said.
There were many backdrops and sets for the students to pose in front of for pictures, like the Dallas skyline, the Oval Office and a Mexican-themed backdrop.
“I loved the decor,” Cluiss said. “The place was definitely in the right mood for a country-western theme.”
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