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Dewey Balfa (center) at his family reunion near Lake Charles. © Ron Stanford

Ron Stanford: Big French Dance

SEPTEMBER 13-OCTOBER 21, 2021

Shipley School Speer Gallery
814 Yarrow Street
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010

Fifty years ago, the far-flung countryside of Southwestern Louisiana was filled with Cajun French and Creole songs. From open-air dances to family homes and fais-do-do parties, these country, blues, and rhythm-and-blues melodies were the soundtrack to several generations. This musical culture has been showcased in black-and-white photographs by Ron Stanford, who lived with these Francophone musicians from 1972 through 1974.

An outdoor reception with the photographer, featuring live music from the Gulf Coast, will be held at the gallery on October 1 from 4-7 pm.

Read our article about Ron Stanford and his book, Big French Dance: Cajun & Zydeco Music 1972-1974.