By: Alexandra Yip
Debbie Hing and I decided to realise our dream of operating a dance studio over a 'teh tarik' session on May 23, 2012. We took dance lessons, performed and travelled together; as well as competed against each other. What we saw was an immediate need to bring dance closer to the community.
A mutual friend of ours had lamented that at present, all dance studios are located in areas that are isolated, dark, or deemed unsafe for one to head to alone, especially in the late evenings. How true, especially for one who may not always be aware of his/her surroundings. And dancers are prone to practising till midnight just to perfect a dance or move. We wanted to have a studio which is in a safe area.
Being dancers, we often have to brave Klang Valley's infamous traffic jams to head to the dance studio. Classes often commence later than scheduled to await for other dancers caught in bad traffic conditions. Having a class to begin 30 minutes later than scheduled is...nothing new. We felt that this may be eliminated if less people in the class had to travel. Perhaps then, it's best to have a class located at the students' residential or work places with only the instructor having to travel to class. All we really require is a room or space that is large enough for our purpose.
We wanted also to expel the notion that there is an age limitation to learning as well as dancing. Our non-dancing friends and research on online forums indicate that many believe learning to dance is to be at a young age! In reality, as long as you can walk, you can learn to dance. And even these days, the Paralympics have their own dance event! You may begin at 3, or 30, or 80, or any time at all! You are just never too old to dance!
Another stigma related to dancing is...'I can't learn because I don't have a partner' or 'I am single'. The truth is, bringing a partner or friend is encouraged, but truly isn't mandatory.
As an avid social dancer, I often notice that places with beautiful dance floors are devoid of dancers, which is such a shame to see. Sometimes, we see curious onlookers by the edge of the dance floor trying to mimic what they see which isn't easy for a non-dancer. This is why we decided to promote dancing, especially socially. Dancing shouldn't be confined solely to dance studios or competition dance floors. Dancing, which gives us so much pleasure, should be shared with everyone! Over the years, dancing has helped us to de-stress from the hustle and bustle of daily life; brought much joy and happiness; improved our posture and health; and increased our network of friends.
What we would love more than anything is for more people to brave themselves and venture into the miraculous world of dancing. Rhythm In Motion will be our very own tool to do all these and we hope very much to see each and every one of you reading this post at our dance or fitness classes very soon!
