Maria Stein, Ohio -
In the quiet farming town of Maria Stein, agriculture is by far the number one industry. But when the work is done, area residents wind down by listening to the calls of a square dance.
During one weekend every year the two are combined for tractor square dancing at the Maria Stein Country Fest.
"Well, if you've square danced before, it's not so hard. You get on a tractor, and you make the same moves," said Alan Mescher, long time tractor square dancer.
The material isn't completely original. The performers got the idea after watching another group of tractor square dancers, but they have made a few improvements.
"They were doing it a little too slow. We thought we could do it a little faster," said Nick Meyer, tractor square dancer.
The engines aren't supped up or anything on these tractors, the guys say they just bring them straight from the fields.
"I was pulling out trees with mine the other week. So yes, they get used on the farm," said Mescher.
Now the group has been entertaining crowds for 18 years, and with so much experience, a lot of practice isn't necessary.
"We practiced last night for about an hour. It's kind of like riding a bicycle. It comes back to you," said Meyer.
But there is one aspect some of the guys have trouble with.
"Well, I've never danced the lady part before so that was kind of different," said Meyer, who is performing as Dolly Parton this year.
Each year a new theme is conceived. This time the guys are rock stars.
And just like true performers, the guys go on tour.
"We've been to the Indiana State Fair, the Ohio State Fair, and several other county fairs and festivals," said Mescher, who is dressed as Gene Simmons.
They rock out to square dancing hits.
"Marching thru Georgia, swap and swing, split the ring--we got a bunch we do," said Mack Shephard, square dance caller.
Their wives weren't completely sold on the idea at first, but after experiencing the crowd reaction, they too became groupies.
"When they started doing it, everybody loved it. It just caught on, and now it's great," said Marcia Mescher, Alan Mescher's wife.
The tractor square dancers will take center stage for five shows. For a schedule go to mscountryfest.com.
Each year a new theme is conceived. This time the guys are rock stars.
"Well, if you've square danced before, it's not so hard. You get on a tractor, and you make the same moves," said Alan Mescher, long time tractor square dancer
