Dancers aged between 50 and 93 will come together in Newport next month for a special celebration of dance, with members of the public invited to enjoy a free afternoon of performances.
The event, called Connect, will take place at the Riverside Centre on Friday (6th November) and will bring together older dancers from across the Isle of Wight to showcase a variety of dance styles.
Leading the celebrations will be Samphire, a contemporary dance company for over-55s, which is marking its 10th anniversary.
The afternoon will also feature performances from En-Core Silver Swans, Tia’s Tappers, the Bollywood Belles and DanceMakers, offering everything from ballet and tap to Bollywood dancing.
The informal event will last just over an hour, with an optional practical workshop afterwards giving dancers and audience members the chance to try some of the styles they have watched.
Organised by Michelle Hainsworth, from Community Dance Isle of Wight, the event aims to encourage more older people to discover the benefits and enjoyment of dancing.
Michelle has said:
“Dancing, more than exercise alone, is reputed to be of great benefit to people as we age but sometimes it’s hard to take the first step and go along to a class.
Article continues below this advertisement “We hope that by holding this event people can come along, have a fun afternoon and see the different dance styles available without having to commit.”
Dancers taking part will range in age from 50 to 93 and include both able-bodied performers and those living with physical disabilities.
Organisers hope the event will demonstrate that dancing can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.
Entry to Connect is free, although donations will be welcomed at the end of the event.
Michelle also runs dance classes for stroke survivors and people living with Parkinson’s, and hopes money raised will help subsidise the cost of carers who support dancers attending those sessions.
Connect will take place in the Trafalgar Room at the Riverside Centre, Newport, on Friday (6th November) from 13:45-15:00. An optional practical workshop will follow from 15:10-15:50.
There is no need to book, and free parking is available for those who register their vehicle on arrival. For further information, contact Michelle on 07503 153329.
