The Royal Academy of Dance are encouraging older people are being encouraged to dance their way to good health, as part of a nationwide initiative.
Dance for Lifelong Wellbeing is an ambitious programme of dance classes and events across the UK aimed at targeting older, novice dancers. From ballet and tap to chair based dance and classic ballroom, the classes cover a multitude of styles for all capabilities.
A study (funded by the Skills Funding Agency in 2013), highlighted the physical and mental benefits of dance amongst older people ranging from their mid 50s to 100s.
Dame Gillian Lynne, the Royal Academy of Dance’s ambassador for the scheme and renowned ballet dancer and choreographer said: “The RAD’s Dance for Lifelong Wellbeing pilot studies showed the positive mental, physical and holistic benefits to be derived from dance.
“Whether tackling simple ballet steps, or creating leg and arm dance routines whilst seated, dance can offer something for everyone at whatever level of fitness.”
Dr Anne Hogan, the RAD’s Director of Education added: “The RAD has seen an increasing demand for adult dance classes with a 70 per cent rise in new dancers in the past 12 months.
“This programme of new classes will open up opportunities to many novices who recognise the health benefits that dance can bring but who may not have had the chance to try ballet, tap or ballroom before now.”
The initial classes include:
Older adult dance classes in Wandsworth – from January, across the borough of Wandsworth
These classes build upon the Dance for Lifelong Wellbeing pilot scheme and will now be continued into 2014. They are funded by Wandsworth Life Long Learning and will be held in Battersea, Roehampton and Putney.
Silver Swans – March 9th (Edinburgh) and March 26th (Glossop, Derbyshire) with dates for Richmond, N Yorkshire and Didsbury, Manchester TBC
Ballet and tap classes specifically for older adults, taught by RAD trained teachers.
Adult Associates – March 23rd, Birmingham
The RAD will hold ballet classes for adults on March 23rd. Classes will be held at the same time as youth classes, to encourage parents to get involved.
