Two Reported Sightings of Grand Junction Notorious Dancing Couple
So far this week there have been two reported Grand Junction sightings of the notorious "Marvin" dancers. Keep your eyes open, you'll probably encounter them soon.
Everybody knows Bruce and Tanya Marvin. They can be found anywhere dance music is played. You've probably seen them at Grand Junction's Market on Main, any of the local fraternal organizations, or at almost any dance in the valley.
Where Were These Sighting Around Grand Junction?
The most recent sightings involve back-to-back appearances at the Grand Junction Moose Lodge on 25 1/2 Road. After a lengthy COVID-inspired shutdown of dances, the Moose started up again with live bands and dances on April 9. Friday, April 9 was the first known sighting, followed a week later on Friday, April 16.
Prior to these appearances, the last known report of a Marvin sighting was back around September when Rock N' Swing, a local dance band, performed on the corner of 4th and Main during Grand Junction's Market on Main.
Who Are Grand Junction's Notorious Dancing Couple?
Bruce and Tanya Marvin. By my math, they've been married for 48 years. I've known them for at least 15 years, and can't recall ever seeing one without the other.
Marvin sightings have been known to stop traffic. Everybody loves to watch them dance.
Have Bruce and Tonya Always Been Dancers?
In a word, no. Bruce and Tanya had been married for some time before they took up dancing. The kids were already grown and out of the house before the couple took their first dance steps.
NOTE: The video above features a jam from Bad Bob Walker and the late Dr. Paul Schneider at the Grand Junction Downtown Farmers Market.
This Is How It All Got Started in Grand Junciton
According to Tanya, the idea to take up dancing was her idea. Originally, Bruce was not interested. Ultimately, though, he realized letting Tanya go alone was probably not a good idea.
I couldn't turn her loose on this town alone. I couldn't afford the bail money." - Bruce Marvin
Be on the Lookout for Future Sightings of the Grand Junction Dancing Duo
Things are beginning to reopen. Clubs are bringing back live music. Annual festivals are starting to return. Unlike the Loch Ness Monster, the Marvins want to be seen. They put on a fine show.
Grand Junction Bands Are Really Loving It
Speaking as someone who performs with a handful of local groups, I look forward to seeing the Marvins. All the local bands do. As a matter of fact, most have taken up learning specific tunes just to get the Marvins on the dance floor.
The next time you're out and about and hear music, take a good 360 degree look around. You'll probably spot them somewhere.