Dance For Fun introduced to Strathmore

Justin Seward
Times Reporter

 

Strathmore has a non-profit ‘Dance For Fun’ group in town for young dancers who would like to participate in a fun-filled, no-pressure atmosphere.
“We started it as a way to give kids an option to do a dance class but is completely recreational,” said Shelly Neal, organizer.
“We’ve only done it the one night and had great feedback.”
Neal and her co-organizer Charlotte Ziehr thought of the idea when interest peaked in Strathmore and she took to social media to receive feedback.
“I had posted on Facebook and said ‘ok what are my options’ and everyone said you should start something recreational,’ and someone said I’ll help you organize it’,” said Neal.
Head instructor Shanice Halwa, who was involved in numerous productions at Strathmore High School, feels very honoured to be teaching her passion to her young students who already have the willingness to learn.
“I hope to teach the kids not only to dance, but to tell a story,” said Halwa.
“And to learn how to move an audience whether that’s laughing or bringing them to tears. My goal is to bring out every student’s full potential, and to show all the creativity we as a studio have to offer to the community.”
The older group does work on more complex techniques but the goal is for all the groups to come together and work on team and individual skill sets.
Classes that are offered are mini-ballet, mini tap, musical theatre jazz, mini and senior hip-hop, cheer and lyrical ballet, and all the classes are for ages 5-9 and 10 and up.
All sessions run on Thursdays at the Strathmore Civic Centre, going from 4- 8 p.m., and more information can be found on the Dance for Fun Strathmore Facebook page.