New England Doo Wop Society
The Dance Contests
One way to spotlight the songs, the dancers, and the dances on American Bandstand was to hold dance contests. Kids in the studio loved them, and the viewers did, too. The rules were simple. Contestants had to sign up to get a number, then once a week they pinned numbers on their backs, much like they did in the dance marathons in the thirties. During the contests, viewers cast ballots for their favorite dancers. Each contest lasted three or four weeks, after which winners were announced on the air. Several of the winners confessed that the voting was done more on popularity merit. Still, they took their prizes, which ranged from portable TVs to juke boxes.
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Bobby & Gary backstage with the Passions on November 1, 2008. |
The Tribunes harmonizing on stage (or "trash-talking" at Gary & Bobby) on Nov1, 2008 at the Castle in Chicopee, MA. |
Jimmy Gallagher hugging old friend Albie Galione on stage at end of concert, November 1, 2008 in Chicopee, MA. It was the first time they two singers sang together in .........23 years!! |
Gary & Bobby toasting the Passions backstage on November 1, 2008 after their first appearance together in 23 years! (L to R) Lenny, Gary, Jimmy, Albie, Eddie & Bobby. |
Passions belting out a tune on stage with part of the Society All-Star band in the background on November 1, 2008 in Chicopee, MA. |
Surprise soloist, Johnny Baer belting out one of his two songs at the Castle of Knights in Chicopee, MA. |
10th grade student, Antonette Nieves entertaining the audience on November 1, 2008 at the Castle of Knights. |
The talented Skid Marks "doing their thing" on stage at the Castle on Nov 1, 2008 in Chicopee, MA. |
Some of the crowd Enjoying the June 6 show with Kenny Vance & PLanotones. Pictured are Gallagher Brothers & George Govoni.
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The big finale on stage at the Castle on Nov. 1, 2008. |
Bob, Ted Hamel (of Route 66) and Gary at the Summerfest Benefit for Rays of Hope at the K of C on Granby Rd., Chicopee, MA on July 26th. |
Finale on stage of June 6th show.... Gary Jones, Kenny Vance, Bob Belniak & Frenchy...... Like Kenny said......"Oh What A night......." |
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