I just walked past the 21 Balançoires at the Quartier des Spectacles in Montreal. I have to say, it is something that made me smile and enjoy the brief moment of nice weather this afternoon. It seems to have this effect on many people who try them out. It is the random music, it is getting on a swing, swinging next to people you don’t know, making a small connection. It is a bit of fun in our urban setting. All of a sudden you are laughing and making jokes about bathtubs and seeing things in a new light. You are also getting lost in the music you help to create and wondering how does this work?
When I am at my African dances class lead by Claudine Malard, I sometimes think about how I am pretty static most of the time. I am sitting at my desk, sitting on the metro, sitting as I read the news or read a book, sitting to watch a movie and sitting when I chat with friends. It is almost like I became an adult and all of that fun in kicking it up, as kids do, went out the window in the name of responsibility and being mature. My dance class is recreation and re-creation. I unload my mind, I learn new moves, I laugh a bit and for sure, my day gets a whole lot better. The same sort of thing happened at the swings today too.
So, if you have a chance, get out there and try those swings BEFORE May 23rd. You will love it!
a brief glimpse of 21 balançoires
Tammy Schmidt, Montreal
