Somewhere Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers must certainly be smiling.
Ballroom dancing has enjoyed its popularity in cycles. It was once the height of social activity, seen in the salons, ballrooms and halls across Europe and America. In subsequent years it took a backseat to other forms of dancing as music itself changed.
But now it’s staging somewhat of a comeback. The graceful, rhythmic movements of such master ballroom dancers as Astaire and Rogers are returning to the consciousness of many Americans thanks to popular television shows and feature films.
Members of the Rome Ballroom Dance Club have been waiting for just this moment that will allow them to lead a ballroom dancing revolution in the community.
Such a difference in my life
Each Monday evening, Shirley and Don Adams lead a ballroom dancing class at the Senior Adult Recreation Center on Kingston Highway. They teach basic and advance steps to everyone from first-time dancers to those who have been ballroom dancing for years.
“We’re at a trend period right now,” Don said. “It’s very popular at the moment. Because of movies and television, people are seeing what a fun and challenging activity it is. They’re also seeing the beauty in it.”
He added that a popular misconception is that ballroom is only for seniors. On the contrary, he said, many younger community members are seeing the benefits of dancing and want to give it a try.
Helen Smith, a member of the club, said locals of all ages are realizing that dancing is a tremendous opportunity to socialize and learn a new skill as well as develop poise and self-confidence.
“I’ve been dancing for seven years,” Smith said,” and it has made such a difference in my life. I’d love for other Rome residents to experience that joy.”
Don and Shirley lead dance classes that take place from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Senior Adult Recreation Center on Kingston Highway. The cost is $2 per person.
Foxtrot, Cha Cha and Swing
But after learning the steps, many dancers want to relive the charm and elegance of a social dance. The club recognizes this and hosts a dance on the second Friday of each month at the Senior Adult Recreation Center.
The dances are open to the public.
Don selects the music and compiles a play list of about two hours of music which represents several of the ballroom dancing styles and which span several decades.
“I make sure to include the American waltz, the Foxtrot, Rumba and Cha Cha,” he said, “as well as the Swing and the Nightclub slow.”
Refreshments are provided at the dances and playlists are distributed to remind guests what dances are suggested for each number.
The cost of the monthly dance is $7 per person.
Smith said dancers come from surrounding counties to attend the dances which makes for a busy social dance network with Rome at its hub.
“But there are dances in Chattanooga, Atlanta and all over the place for you to attend if you’d like to,” she added. “We’re just trying to get people interested and on the dance floor.”
Taking the lead
One of the popular misconceptions that deters many people from dancing, Don said, is that it’s considered a feminine activity. He explained that there’s no better arena for a man to display his charm and strength than on the dance floor.
“Men are the leaders here,” he said. “They showcase the women. They have to make the women look good.. They lead the dance and the woman follows. It’s a beautiful interaction.”
The Rome Ballroom Dance Club, with its 40 to 50 members continues to host lessons and theme dances and is trying to appeal to a cross-section of the community. Their events are open to the public and they encourage anyone with an interest in dancing to give them a call.
For additional information on the Rome Ballroom Dance Club or dancing lessons, call Don and Shirley Adams at 706-506-4150.
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