It seems like there’s a holiday for just about everything these days, and while some leave us scratching our heads, others are simply delightful! Did you know that April 11th is National Barbershop Quartet Day! I’d wager to say that most Disneyland fans can’t hear those words without thinking about a beloved fixture of the Park. I’m talking about The Dapper Dans, of course! A trip down Main Street, U.S.A. is a nostalgic blast from the past, and this musical duo truly solidifies those old-time vibes. Their presence in the Park continues to put smiles on the faces of passersby as they stop and listen to their melodious harmonies. So, in honor of National Barbershop Quartet Day, let’s delve into the toe-tapping history of The Dapper Dans!
National Barbershop Quartet Day
But first, how did National Barbershop Quartet Day actually come about? It’s really quite simple, although I can’t say the same for the name of the following group! On April 11, 1938, the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing was formed in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Later becoming the Barbershop Harmony Society, its commencement became an annual celebration.
What Makes a Barbershop Quartet?
Distinguishing Features
Although some information surrounding Barbershop Quartets remains uncertain, their origins date back to the 19th century. The story goes, as customers waited to get their hair cut, they’d sing together in harmony. Besides the obvious four-member element and matching ensemble, traditional Barbershop Quartets feature A capella, four-part harmony, Ragtime/nostalgic music style. Perfect for Main Street U.S.A.
An Iconic Look At The Dapper Dans
Remember that I Love Lucy Barbershop Quartet episode, where Lucy, Ricky, Fred, and Ethel performed “Sweet Adeline” to a background of silly antics? It makes me smile just thinking about it! All four characters had a distinguishing feature that proved common in Barbershop Quartets back in the day, handlebar mustaches! An early Disneyland photo from 1960 shows The Dapper Dans with their own matching staches! (See the image below) Although this is no longer a criterion for the foursome at Disneyland, it’s fun to look back at how the team used to appear. Appearances are a big deal when it comes to Barbershop Quartets, with members donning a dapper ensemble of striped vests and straw hats. Check out the fashionable transformation of The Dapper Dans at Disneyland, below!
65 Years of The Dapper Dans
Interestingly, the Dapper Dans weren’t the first Barbershop group to grace The Happiest Place on Earth. Before they came onto the scene, there was Four Guys and a Girl in 1957. The Dapper Dans arrived at Disneyland four years after opening, in 1959, and have been performing there ever since! The group was formed in large part, thanks to Park Talent Supervisor Charles (Chuck) Corson, whose window can be found on Main Street, U.S.A.
In 1971, the tradition continued, as The Dapper Dans brought their old-time charm to Walt Disney World for the debut of Magic Kingdom Park. A perfect compliment to the Harmony Barber Shop on Main Street, U.S.A. guests can still get their hair cut there to this day! Although Barbershop Quartets are traditionally known for A capella, The Dapper Dans began featuring a unique instrument in the 1970s. Inspired by Deagan Organ Chimes of the early 1900s, they add a magical sound to their performances!
If you want to take a trip back in time, check out The Dapper Dans on Main Street, U.S.A. You can’t miss them with their brightly colored outfits and creative crooning to lead the way! Refer to Disneyland’s app or website for scheduled performances of tunes like:
- “While Strolling Through the Park One Day”
- “Goodbye, My Coney Island Baby”
- “I’m Sitting on Top of the World”
- “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow”
- “When You Wish Upon a Star”
- “America the Beautiful”
- “God Bless America”
I can’t believe it’s been 65 years since The Dapper Dans arrived at Disneyland. We hope to see the musical ensemble continue bringing their charm to Main Street U.S.A. for years to come!
Pour yourself a cup of java and enjoy our favorite boys in perfect musical harmony:
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We Love To Hear From You!
Are you a fan of Disneyland’s Barbershop Quartet? What’s your favorite song? Have you seen Charles (Chuck) Corson’s window on Main Street, U.S.A.? Let us know your favorite Dapper Dans moments in the comments!
