Rocky Mountain Rainbeaus is Colorado’s largest square dance club. For more than forty years, this friendly group of dancers has come together to turn, twirl, and do-si-do. While they share laughter and build strong friendships, they also stay sharp—both mentally and physically.
Who Are the Rainbeaus?
The Rainbeaus have been part of Denver’s dance community since the early 1980s. Today, with around 90 paid members, they keep the tradition alive—while also making the club welcoming to anyone who wants to join.
Longtime Dancer: Lenny Glatt
Lenny moved to Denver in 1984 and joined the Rainbeaus in 1985. He’s now danced with them for forty years. He says square dancing is a full workout. You must think fast, move quickly, and follow your partner. Lenny explains that when the caller calls out a new move, it’s a “mental exercise.”
He also loves the social side, saying he’s always meeting new people and visiting with old friends. Plus, he enjoys the physical activity.
Newcomer Zaynee Allen Finds Her Place
Zaynee joined recently and felt welcomed from day one. She says the group’s positive energy pulled her in. Even as someone new, she felt immediately included. Zaynee shares that it was “super inviting” to be part of a group that just wants to have fun.
Learning the Calls—and More
Square dancing uses traditional calls like “allemande left,” “right and left grand,” and more. Michael Sattler, President of the Rainbeaus, says the fun part is learning both “boy” and “girl” parts for each move.
That flexible learning helps dancers stay mentally sharp and engaged. He explains that being able to switch roles challenges the mind and makes dancing more fun.
A Growing Community in a Shrinking Hobby
While square dance clubs across the U.S. have seen fewer participants, the Rainbeaus are growing. They now have 90 paid members and continue to welcome new faces. Michael Sattler emphasizes that their club is a place where people truly belong.
He wants everyone to know they’re not alone: “You have a community, you have people who care for you. This is definitely that club that says come on in, be part of our family.”
Pride Parade Performance
This month, the Rainbeaus will shine at the Denver Pride Parade on Sunday, June 29. Construction on Colfax Avenue means a new route: dancers will gather at 17th and Franklin at 9:30 a.m. and trot west to Lincoln Street. It’s one of the week’s most joyful highlights for the group.
Why Square Dancing Matters
Square dancing keeps your body moving and your mind sharp. Beyond that, it builds strong social bonds and gives people a chance to express themselves. For the Rainbeaus, it’s much more than dance—it’s a community where authenticity, acceptance, and joy come together.
Rocky Mountain Rainbeaus is more than a dance club. It’s a community that spans generations, backgrounds, and experiences. Whether you’re a 40-year veteran like Lenny or a newcomer like Zaynee, there is room here for everyone. They meet weekly to dance, laugh, and support each other.
Square dancing may have ancient roots, but the Rainbeaus prove it’s a living, vibrant part of Denver’s LGBTQ+ scene—especially when they sparkle in the Denver Pride Parade. Their success shows that when people find a place to belong, something beautiful can grow and thrive.