'Cowboy C*untry' is the brainchild of Sydney-based actor and content creator Kath Ebbs, and it’s line dancing with a whole lot of heart (and glitter).
Inspired by the thriving LGBTQIA+ line dancing scene in Los Angeles, Kath is bringing that same inclusive energy back home, taking the show on the road. Think four easy-to-follow dance lessons, special guests, and a whole lot of yeehaw.
Whether you’re a two-step pro or just there to soak in the vibes, this event is for everyone – all bodies, all experience levels, all welcome. We caught up with Kath to chat all things 'Cowboy C*untry', from the queerness of cowboy culture, to LA inspo, and what to expect at the events.
What’s the most unexpected thing about queer cowboy culture that totally roped you in?
How queer-coded and ingrained into our history it is. Two-stepping culture was a huge part of the underground LGBT+ scene and cowboy culture has long lingered within the community. I think people find this surprising because western culture has for so long been associated with conservatism.
If 'Cowboy C*untry' had a signature cocktail, what would be in it – and what would it be called?
Okay I haven’t drunk alcohol in ten years, so my knowledge is terrible! This isn’t a cocktail so wrong answer, but why does a long neck beer come to mind?! Something really cheap that hits the spot. I think it's because most of the places I line dance are dive bars, so cheap no frills drinks feel affiliated with line dancing to me.
Image © Joseph Mayers
What’s your personal cowboy aesthetic in three words?
Simple, practical, and gay.
From Hollywood to the hoof-stompin’ halls of Australia – what was it about LA’s LGBTQIA+ line dancing scene that made you want to bring it home?
The community aspect 100 per cent. I immediately felt so welcomed, like a warm energetic hug as soon as I walked in. When I was first introduced to line dancing whilst visiting LA I was going through a real unsettling time in my life. Struggling with sudden grief and not knowing how to move through it. When I found line dancing and subsequently the community that followed it felt like a coming home of sorts.
Who would be your dream surprise guest to pop up at a 'Cowboy C*untry' event? Living, fictional, or otherwise fabulously famous.
Keith Urban – an Aussie country music icon, married to fellow Aussie icon Nicole. I want to dance to 'Texas Time' with him!
You’ve got four line dances in the show – tell us about what audiences can expect from them?
A lot of sass with some old-school country roots. I'm a stickler for tradition, especially as the scene in Aus is just being re-established. So, I like to choose at least two dances that are classic country – a line you would find at an old dive bar in the sticks. But I also know the queers love their pop music (me included, don't fret). So, I will be song swapping and adding some sass to the night with some epic pop bangers.
Image © Joseph Mayers
What’s your go-to hype song when you're getting into cowboy mode and why?
'Freight Train', by Alan Jackson. One of my favourite country songs and line dances. I just find it to be such a G-up!
What’s something you wish more people knew about line dancing – especially when it comes to its place in queer spaces?
How incredibly welcoming the community is. Every time I go to a line dancing space the sense of community through the shared interest of the sport is such a beautiful feeling. You feel so connected to these people you’ve just met, and all want to nerd out together. I think also dancing in unison with people you have just met is such an intense, euphoric and connected experience.
Say someone’s never line danced before but is rocking up for this event – what’s your advice to help them own that dancefloor?
Tip number one with line is you just gotta make sure you end up facing the right wall! If all else fails, boogie and follow the movement of the crowd! But in all seriousness, remember most people are in the same boat. If you're coming for a lesson, everyone else there is also ready to learn. You're not meant to be nailing it otherwise you wouldn’t be there! It's so important to remember that you are allowed to just be as well – in all realms of life that is. People that judge others for giving something a go are just projecting their own insecurities of not being able to cultivate authenticity. Inspire people by taking up space and being unapologetic for it. If you are having fun despite potentially feeling like you have two left feet, own that and own your right to be there experiencing joy.
When bringing ‘Cowboy C*untry’ around Australia, you’re most looking forward to…
Connecting with the community! It's my main driving force in starting this group and now travelling it outside of LA and Sydney. Connection is all we got, and it's what we need! Especially within the LGBT+ community right now. Dance is such a spiritual childlike activity and to be able to do that with likeminded people is so special. We need more of it in the world right now. Line dancing changed my life over a year ago and if I can inject just the tiniest bit of that joy back, I can die a happy human.
'Cowboy C*untry' With Kath Ebbs 2025 Tour Dates
26 July – Howler (Melbourne)
1 August – The Triffid (Brisbane)
30 August – The Bar On The Hill (Newcastle)
