The Central Coast Bush Dance and Music Association Inc. are bringing back their dance workshops just in time for spring.
“We believe there are lots of people who would like to try social dancing but don’t feel confident in their dance skills,” said Association Publicity Officer, Robyn Northwood.
“We’ve found that men in particular tend to feel this way, and the problem with men is that if they aren’t sure they can do something well, chances are they won’t attempt to do it at all,” she said.
“Firstly, everyone needs to understand that if you can walk a straight line without falling over, you too can probably dance.
“Secondly, bush dancing isn’t difficult.
“Originally drawn from the English, Irish and Scottish folk dances introduced to Australia by the early settlers, it was danced by men in the shearing sheds, goldfields and cattle stations, because there were not many women around in those days,” Northwood continued.
“Bush dancing has now expanded to not only include women, but bits of Old Time dances, like Gypsy Tap, Pride of Erin, and of course, the Barn Dance.
“Also, some Contra, a bit of Ragtime sometimes, and a measure of Jane Austen (English Country Dancing).
“It is never boring,” Northwood said.
“For the last 20 years, we have held a regular monthly bush dance at the East Gosford Progress Hall, on the second Saturday evening of the month, and we have now reintroduced our weekly Social Dance Workshops at the Kariong Community Hall, on Friday evenings.
“The workshops are geared to beginners, to encourage them to attend the bush dance, confident in the knowledge that they know what they are doing.
“Simple dances are broken down to basics, so everyone can learn them, one step at a time.
“Some people take longer to learn that others and that’s okay.
“Everyone gets there in the end, and while we are learning, we are thoroughly enjoying ourselves.
“The music is lively, the people are terrific and the exercise most beneficial.
“In other words, dancing is fun,” Northwood said.
The workshops are held at the Kariong Community Hall on Friday evenings, from 7:30pm to 10:30pm, at a cost of $8 per person.
Attendees do not need to bring a partner to participate.
Source: Media release, Aug 9, Robyn Northwood, Central Coast Bush Dance and Music Association Inc.