As a veteran of both the old Dessau and the new Dessau, we thought Don Walser might have an opinion on the recent changes. Sure enough, he does:
“I think it’s a much better venue now,” he answers without a moment’s hesitation. “I think it’s a great venue now. I think it really is.”
To be sure, Walser has some affection for the Dessau of old, with its velvet atmosphere and old-time approach to country dancing.
“The old owner [Leona Kincl], she had it like it used to be years ago. She had some hard and fast rules,” he laughs, remembering the prohibition on line dancing and cowboy hats indoors. “That was kind of hard on some folks who weren’t used to it.”
While Walser can appreciate tradition, he’s partial to the new Dessau, praising management for their professionalism and their advertising budget.
“Grandpa Jones once said, ‘You can’t sneak into town and draw a crowd,'” chuckles Walser.
While it’s hard to imagine Big Don sneaking in anywhere, he’s happy with the crowds he’s getting at the new Dessau. – J.H.
This article appears in April 24 • 1998 and April 24 • 1998 (Cover).