Did you know that Robertson County is home to an award-winning youth square dance team? Under the expert direction of Mrs. Cheryl Chunn, Tennessee Rhythm has become a powerhouse in the world of competitive bluegrass dance. Their dedication and talent earned them an undefeated streak in 2024, securing first-place wins at every competition they entered. “To say that I am proud of each and every one of these kids would be an understatement,” Cheryl says. “Blessed would be a better word to express how I feel to see the journey and growth in each individual dancer.” 

One of their most significant victories came at the Smithville Fiddler’s Jamboree and Arts Festival, a prestigious event celebrating traditional Appalachian music and dance. Their outstanding performance there led to an extraordinary opportunity—an invitation to dance on the legendary Grand Ole Opry stage. On March 8th, Tennessee Rhythm fulfilled a dream by joining the world-renowned Grand Ole Opry Square Dancers, showcasing their skills under the bright lights of one of country music’s most revered venues.

If you’ve been to a local parade, festival, or community event, you may have already seen Tennessee Rhythm in action. Dressed in their signature red and white gingham outfits, these young dancers bring energy and enthusiasm to every performance. Their repertoire includes traditional styles like clogging, buck dancing, and Appalachian flatfooting, keeping the spirit of classic dance alive for a new generation.

Behind the scenes, these kids worked incredibly hard. “Though they compete and perform as a team, they each have had their own path for growth,” adds Cheryl. Their passion for dance kept them going through blazing summers and freezing winters, with practices continuing in temperatures ranging from 20 degrees to 100 degrees. Their dedication, paired with their love for preserving Tennessee’s rich musical heritage, made Tennessee Rhythm truly special.

For the parents of these young dancers, seeing their hard work pay off was a rewarding experience. Mary Beth Clark, a proud dance mom, shared her excitement, saying, “I love the fact that these kids are continuing the tradition of square dancing here in Middle Tennessee. They are a very tight-knit group of friends and very committed to the team.”

As Tennessee Rhythm took the Grand Ole Opry stage, their friends and family cheered them on. Their journey is a testament to the power of tradition, perseverance, and the joy of dance. This performance marked a historic moment for the team, and their success is sure to inspire future generations of young dancers.