DISPUTE OVER MODERN DANCING SWEEPS SOFIA
Sofia, Bulgaria (JFK+50) On February 2, 1926, The Evening Star reports that "all of Sofia* has been stirred by a bitter, far-reaching dispute which has arisen regarding dancing."
It seems "many prominent members of society" have determined that modern dances such as the foxtrot, one step, Charleston and tango are "immoral and ungodly."
At a recent charity ball held in Sofia "only waltzes and...national dances" were being played so a new orchestra was called in to play jazz. A local archbishop has delivered a "vigorous" sermon opposing modern dances.
*Sofia is the capital & largest city of Bulgaria, a major political, economic & cultural center with a 7000 year history. Today's population is 1.3 million.
SOURCES
"Disputed Morality of Jazz Dances Has Bulgarian Capital In Uproar," The Evening Star, Washington, D.C., February 2, 1926, Chronicling America, Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/
