Latin Dance Classes
(9/26/07)


Turner Hall’s dance floor in Boonville has been getting a work out with weekly Latin Dance classes on Tuesday nights taught by instructor Stephen Perry. Close to 40 people showed up for the series of classes focusing on salsa and introducing Buchata. If you come to the dance party Friday, October 5 at 7:30 PM at the hall you can learn the Merengue and get plenty of practice. Perry will be teaching the dance from 7:30 - 8:00 PM. and the music will continue until 10:30 PM. No experience is nessessary. The Merengue is a comparatively simple dance. As Meredith Ludwig dance class organizer says, “You only have to be able to count to two!” She also claims that dancing is, “Exercise in disguise!” According to Ludwig that’s the best kind. “Might as well have a great time staying healthy!”

From the laughter coming from the hall these last Tuesday nights it’s clear some people are having a wonderful time. Others are struggling with a new beat and still others spend a lot of time looking at their feet. But all in all everyone has got that basic Salsa step down and have been practicing their turns and flourishes. Perry, who is used to students with some dance background said, “This has been more challenging than other classes I’ve taught, but we are defiantly making progress.”

With the popularity of television shows like “Dancing with the Stars”, more and more people are being exposed to all types of ballroom dance including Latin. Dancing regularly helps keep the body toned, aids in circulation and oxygenation; big words for great benefits. Movement is key to retaining flexibility and balance as we age. Lesley Oswald, River Rats president hopes that high school students in the area will join us as well as seniors. “It’s such a great opportunity for all ages to learn a new dance or come show us what they already know.”

The dance party will cost $5.00 at the door for anyone not already a member of the class. Refreshments will available for a small donation. All proceeds from the dance classes and party go to covering the costs of the hall, the instructor and to insure the River Rats, a non-profit organization, continue to bring creative learning experiences to the community.

For more information, call 660-882-3300. Turner Hall is located at 518 Vine Street in Boonville.

 

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