Local family band Moloney Band Revival reunites to commemorate 50 years since the Rathdowney Hall supper room extension and restoration of the dance floor.
To celebrate the major upgrade, the Hall committee are hosting an Old-time Dance on September 13.
Moloney Band Revival Guitarist Joahn Rohan is nervous but excited to play in front of an audience once again after her last performance in 1983.
She says that reuniting the family band will be a special and unforgettable moment for them all.
“We had a rehearsal and we all just clicked again. We didn’t have to relearn songs or anything like that – it’s something you never forget,” she said.
“It’s going to be quite an emotional night because my dad has passed away and he used to play the drums.”
Their original band The Moloney Orchestra featured Joahn, her sister Kym Bignell, her dad John Mal, her uncle Terry Mal and her grandparents Jack and Ellen Mal.
On the night, Terry will play for John on drums with Brian Ludwig from Beaudesert band Undecided filling in for the band.
“This night is sort of a tribute to all the musicians that have played for dances over the years because it’s hard to get live music now,” Joahn said.
She says that she’s looking forward to playing ‘Running Bear’ for the Gypsy Tap dance as she feels that people will remember this song the most.
Treasurer Wayne Wieland has been affiliated with the local hall for more than 35 years and hopes that the Old-time Dance can rekindle old memories.
“I remember being here as a kid and we would be asleep under the seats,” Joahn said.
“The young ones could just crash on the floor away from them, so they didn’t get trod on,” Wayne said.
“It’s nice to be able to have the community come together for an event like this.”
The Rathdowney Hall 50-year Celebration Dance will commence at 5.30pm until 10.30pm with a $10 entry fee.
Primary school age and under has free entry. A traditional supper is included.
