Monument Country Dance Club, a rising star in Grand Junction’s local dance scene, is approaching its first anniversary at Mama Ree’s. The partnership, which began nearly a year ago, has transformed the venue and brought a fresh vibrancy to the community. The club’s founders, Tyler Thorp and Skyler Kjellson, have built something special from the ground up—and their passion for country dancing has played a key role in the transformation.
A Love for Country Dancing Sparks a New Venture
The idea for Monument Country Dance Club wasn’t just born from a shared interest in dancing—it was driven by a group of friends who loved learning and growing together. Thorp and Kjellson, both relatively new to country dancing, saw the potential in combining their passion with a local venue to offer a place for others to experience the same joy.
“We were just a group of people who loved coming to Mama Ree’s to dance,” said Thorp. “Country dancing, swing, line dancing—anything. We got into it, branding the club and just running with it.”
Their connection grew quickly, not only through their love of country dancing but also by the bond they formed while developing the club. Both men started dancing around the same time the club took off, making their journey together even more special.
“I grew up as an athlete,” Kjellson explained, “so I didn’t have rhythm until recently. It’s been a fun challenge to learn alongside the others.”
Though the two may have come from different backgrounds, their shared commitment to making Monument Country Dance Club a success has kept them motivated every week.
Transforming Mama Ree’s into a Country Dance Hub
As their partnership flourished, Thorp and Kjellson noticed a shift in their weekly gatherings. What started as just a casual group of friends at the bar has grown into a core part of the venue’s identity.
“It’s kind of surreal, you know?” Kjellson reflected. “We went from being just random people at the bar to becoming regulars. Now, we’re a big part of what has made Mama Ree’s a country bar.”
The transformation of Mama Ree’s has been evident not only in the space itself but in the type of community it attracts. Every Saturday night, Thorp, Kjellson, and the rest of the Monument Country Dance Club take the lead by offering free line dance classes, giving newcomers a chance to learn and connect with others who share their passion.
“I think the best part for me is the ability to share this with everyone,” Thorp said. “We’ve created a platform for people to come in, learn, and be a part of this community.”
The Impact of the Monument Country Dance Club
The growth of Monument Country Dance Club has had a lasting impact on Grand Junction’s local entertainment scene. More and more people are joining the dance community each week, and the club has become a pillar of support for those looking to learn the ropes of country dancing.
As Thorp and Kjellson reflect on the club’s success, they’re excited about what the future holds. The momentum they’ve built is only growing stronger, and they continue to nurture the culture of country dancing in the area. Their commitment to the club and their community is what truly makes Monument Country Dance Club stand out.
Key Stats from Monument Country Dance Club’s Growth:
- Free weekly line dance classes every Saturday at 7:30 pm
- Growing community of dancers, both new and seasoned
- Continued partnership with Mama Ree’s, shaping the venue’s identity as a country bar
| Event | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Free Line Dance Classes | Saturdays at 7:30 pm | Mama Ree’s, Grand Junction |
Building a Legacy of Country Dancing
The anniversary of Monument Country Dance Club isn’t just a milestone for its founders—it’s a celebration of the community they’ve built. As the club continues to expand, the passion and dedication behind it will remain the driving force.
“I think we’ve really helped create a space for people who just want to have fun, learn, and be themselves,” Kjellson shared. “The club’s success is a testament to what happens when people come together and work toward something they love.”
With its first anniversary fast approaching, Monument Country Dance Club is poised to continue growing and evolving, providing a welcoming environment for dancers of all levels. The partnership with Mama Ree’s has proven to be a powerful one, and with each new class and event, the club strengthens its hold on Grand Junction’s vibrant dance community.
