The 1980s were a vibrant time for dance, music, and iconic hairstyles – and for many, “Dance Party USA” epitomized this era. Recently, a wave of nostalgia hit me as clips from the show popped up on my TikTok “For You Page,” flooding me with memories of big hair, catchy tunes, and energetic dance moves. It reminded me of a personal story that often surprises people: my experience as a guest dancer on “Dance Party USA” and my brief encounter with a young Kelly Ripa before she became a household name.
Stepping Back in Time: My “Dance Party USA” Adventure
While photographic evidence from the late 80s is scarce in my possession – disposable cameras and developing times were the norms then – the memories of being on the set of “Dance Party USA” are vividly etched in my mind. As a teenager growing up in New Jersey, I was completely captivated by “Dance Party USA.” This show, filmed near Philadelphia, was my daily dose of dance and entertainment. The infectious energy and the latest hits made it a must-watch, six days a week.
When the opportunity arose to actually be a guest dancer on the show, I jumped at it. I brought a friend along, and we embarked on an exciting Saturday in 1988 to film what I believe were a week’s worth of episodes. The guest pass itself was a ticket to an unforgettable experience, complete with instructions about appropriate attire – bright colors were encouraged, while black, white, grey, tank tops, t-shirts, and sneakers were not. And importantly, guests had to be at least 15, ensuring a teen-centric dance floor.
Meeting Kelly Ripa: A Budding Star on the Dance Floor
The most frequent question I get when I recount my “Dance Party USA” story is about Kelly Ripa. Yes, she was there on the day I was a guest! During one of the breaks in filming, I found myself sitting next to her. She was quite young then, just on the cusp of fame. I remember her as being reserved and not overly chatty, but she did offer chocolate to everyone around her, a small gesture of youthful generosity. This encounter, though brief, is a unique footnote in my memory of that day. It’s fascinating to think back to meeting Kelly Ripa in this setting, long before her daytime television stardom. “Dance Party USA” was a platform where young talents like Kelly Ripa honed their on-screen presence, amidst the high-energy backdrop of 80s dance culture.
My time on “Dance Party USA” was a fleeting moment in television history, and while my personal VHS recordings are now lost to time, the memories endure. Perhaps it’s for the best that those tapes are gone – my dance skills were enthusiastic but not exactly professional! However, the poster I rediscovered recently brings back the vibrant energy of that era. I even recall owning a “Dance Party USA” jacket, a white statement piece emblazoned with the show’s logo, a true emblem of my teenage passion for the show.
“Dance Party USA” Lives On Through TikTok
The spirit of “Dance Party USA” is far from gone. TikTok has become an unexpected archive, with countless clips and memories resurfacing, connecting a new generation with the 80s dance phenomenon. Even some of the show’s regular dancers have embraced social media, sharing their own perspectives and vintage footage.
@rickbrindle Replying to @Kali Bonoz I couldn’t help myself. I remember Kelly Ripa from WAY back. #dance #saltnpepa #kellyripa #fypシ #genx #dancpartyusa #danceparty ♬ Push It – Salt-N-Pepa
While today’s audiences might find the concept of a teen dance show quaint, “Dance Party USA” was a cultural touchstone. It showcased not just dancing, but the fashion, music, and youthful exuberance of the 80s. The show’s regulars were almost like local celebrities, connecting with fans through mail and personal interactions.
“Dance Party USA” remains a significant piece of 80s dance and pop culture. My personal experience, including that brief meeting with Kelly Ripa, is a cherished memory. It’s wonderful to see how platforms like TikTok are keeping the energy of “Dance Party USA” alive, ensuring that the big dance moves and even bigger hair of the 80s continue to inspire and entertain.
