A LONG-RUNNING Canowindra dance group is inviting more people, particularly younger dancers, to get onto the dance floor and experience the friendship, fitness and fun that comes with new vogue dancing.
The Canowindra New Vogue Dance Group meets every Sunday afternoon, bringing together around 30 dancers for an afternoon of dancing, live music and social connection.
Group organiser Gail Davis said the welcoming atmosphere was one of the group’s greatest strengths, with newcomers always encouraged to join the fun.
“You don’t really need a partner,” Ms Davis said.
“If you haven’t got one and you want to dance, just come along and you’ll definitely get dances.”
The group currently attracts mostly older dancers, with many members in their 70s and 80s, but Ms Davis said she would love to see more younger people discover the joy of New Vogue dancing.
“It’s something we’ve unfortunately lost a bit,” she said.
“The younger ones aren’t always thrilled with it, which is a shame because it’s such a nice afternoon and everyone is so friendly.”
New Vogue dancing is an updated style of old-time dancing, combining structured steps with a relaxed social atmosphere.
The group also holds lessons every Tuesday afternoon at the Canowindra Services Club from 1pm to 3pm, taught by Orange-based instructor Kathy Slattery. Lessons cost $5.
Ms Davis said the benefits went well beyond learning new steps.
“It’s really good exercise both mentally and physically,” she said.
“You get to meet the same people or different people come and go, it’s just a really nice group.”
The group’s popularity extends well beyond the local area, with dancers travelling from across New South Wales and interstate to attend major events.
The group recently hosted its annual 12-hour dance in June, which attracted visitors from across the state and beyond, and reached an audience of more than 1.5 million views on Facebook.
The group also celebrated Christmas in July this month, as well as their regular Sunday dances featuring music from local musicians, such as Barry Whitty from Cowra.
On Sundays, dancing runs from 1pm to 5pm and costs $15, with live music included. A special theme afternoon is also held on five-weekend months, featuring country-style afternoon tea.
For those who don’t want to dance but still want to enjoy the atmosphere, visitors are welcome to come along for music, afternoon tea and friendship for $5.
Ms Davis said the group was about much more than dancing.
“It’s like a big family,” she said. “Everybody’s so friendly and they’re so happy. It’s really good to see.”