Dance Lessons with Robert

Like a lot of other kids in the 1950’s dancing was part of our culture. As a teen in the Post World War II era the common dances where Waltz, Foxtrot and, for the more daring, the Jive. But, as we know, that was about to change when in the 60’s came the advent of Rock n Roll AND the whole world took a turn.

Dances like the Twist, Frug, Monkey, Alcaponie and even the Mashed Potato (we‘re not referring to the vegetable) were popularized. Ballroom dancing, as it was referred to, seemed to disappear to be forgotten and thought of as a style that “Mon & Dad” use to do.

 

The truth is that Ballroom Dance continued adapting to the times and taking on a new genera. A unique position in the dance world. It moved to High End Show and Competition dancing opening a new level of dancing for the general public known as “Social Dancing.”

Although not directly in the public eye it is the largest hidden industry. In North America (Canada, U.S.A. and Mexico) there are some eight hundred and sixty five thousand registered dance professionals. Three times that in Europe and millions in the Pacific Rim and Australia.

 

At the age of 13 I coerced my older sister into teaching me the new Rock n Roll Jive. It was common place for the Junior High and High Schools to have Saturday afternoon Sock Hops chaperoned by teachers and parents. If you could dance you were popular! Sis and I went on to win a Youth Jive Championship.

Over the following forty plus years I worked and competed on two continents and three countries. Canada, the United States and Australia. Although the highlights were to win a number of titles the real winning was in watching people, that I have taught, achieve their goals and desires in dancing.

Originally trained as a Dance Teacher I was associated with the Arthur Marry Dance Schools for a total of eight years as well as operated my own studio for six years. In conjunction with the studio work I assisted professional dancers to develop their technique and style.

Musical choreography is a strong suite so I had the pleasure of working with dance performers in armature and professional venues.

 

The World of Dance is diverse and joyful! As a career it brings multitudes of great memories.

 

Thank you,

Robert

See you on the Dance Floor!