Big Band Dance Getaway | Fall 2023

A Great Start for Our Weekend Getaway

Temptation in the Lobby

We eased into our big band dance getaway on Saturday evening. After everyone had checked in, we met up in the lobby in preparation for our first night out. We quickly noticed two things. First, a lot of people were traveling with their dogs. From a comical pair of bullies to a giant (and super chill) St. Bernard, the lobby was rarely canine free. And second, a giant gingerbread house was being erected just beyond the elevator doors. It looked and smelled so wonderful that Lulu threatened to snag a piece to nibble on. I think they may have her picture in security now.

Once assembled, we proceeded to dinner at the SQZBX, a cozy little pizza joint/microbrewery inhabiting an old radio station. In keeping with the musical theme, the walls were decorated with parts from old musical instruments which we had fun identifying. The food was delicious, and Clara vouched for their house-made hard cider. Next time I’m going prepared to try a flight of their specialties.

SQBX

After dinner we ambled down the street to the Maxwell Blade Theater for a magic show. Due to my almost phobic worry about being late, we were super early. It was too cold to wander around and check out the shops, so we went inside and found our seats (second row center!) and chatted (or napped) as we waited. It was pretty chilly inside too, and the psychedelic projection of Blade’s face floating across the walls may be burned on our retinas forever, but all was redeemed when the show started. Maxwell Blade is a fabulous magician, and funny to boot.

Mystified Young Volunteers

Well-fed and well entertained, we headed back to the Arlington and turned in.

Slow Sunday Vibes

Sunday morning was all about pampering, starting with a hot (really hot) mineral water soak. Then it was into the sauna before being swaddled in hot wet towels (unexpectedly comforting) for a nice little rest. And finally, after every muscle was relaxed, it was time for a massage. Ahh! Bliss.

After all that pampering, it was time to fuel up. The Arlington’s dining room is elegantly appointed at any time, but in late November it also as serious Christmas vibes. Live music by Jacob Flores added to the relaxed mood as we tucked into the enormous brunch buffet. And there was truly something for everyone, from fluffy omelets to juicy prime rib, and of course, decadent desserts.

Miles of Food

A Poinsettia in Every Window

After brunch? The crew seemed pretty evenly split between napping and exploring the wooded trails behind the hotel.

Tripping the Light Fantastic

As 3:00 drew near, our merry band drifted into the Crystal Ballroom fully relaxed, properly fueled, and ready to dance. There were several regulars there already (warming up and catching up) and quite a few of them came by our table to chat and make us feel welcome.

Looking Good!

In preparation for the trip I’d made sure everyone reviewed foxtrot because that’s usually the bulk of what is played by a dance orchestra. Well not this time! There were a few of course, but also lots of rumbas, swings, and slow-lounges, as well as a nice sprinkling of other ballroom dances. Really, the Stardust Big Band is a dancer’s dream. Of course our folks took advantage of the lovely music and complemented it with great dancing.

The Smile Says it All

 

Hand Change Behind the Back

 

So Happy Together

 

Bustin’ a Move

 

 

There was one odd encounter that I can’t resist recounting. An older fellow stopped by our table while returning to his seat. Without acknowledging anyone else he said to Lulu, “Man are you gorgeous!” Then he glanced at Brandon, added, “Are you with him?”, and just walked away. After a beat of stunned silence, we all laughed (and teased Brandon a little), but sheesh! Brandon is handsome, smart, interesting, successful, and an all-around nice guy, so yes Mr. Hawaiian shirt, she is definitely with him!

Winding Down

After returning to our rooms briefly to change (back into pumpkins?), we reconvened once again and headed out with plans to dine at a restaurant overlooking Lake Hamilton. Alas it was not to be. Even though I had contacted them and been assured no reservation was necessary, they could not fit us in for at least an hour (near closing time), and we were not inclined to wait. It turned out fine though because this is an easygoing and resourceful group and we soon had a plan B. Props to Steve for finding Rolando’s, an Ecuadorian restaurant right across from our hotel. The ambiance was charming, the staff was welcoming, the food was fantastic, and of course, the company was delightful.

A Final Thought

Lulu and Brandon had been with us on our last trip to Hot Springs, so they knew what to expect, but this was Clara and Steve’s first trip with the studio. At one point during the dance I leaned over and asked Clara if it was what she’d expected, and with stars in her eyes she said, “Oh, it’s even more!” And that sums up our weekend perfectly.