By John Kriz
The Pearl Divas of Connecticut, a Norwalk-based line dancing ensemble, held an afternoon of instruction and fellowship at Community Baptist Church on Cherry Street www.cbcnewcanaan.org last Saturday, May 31.
What Is Line Dancing?
Line dancing is a mix – a bit like country line dancing, says group leader Theresa Ross, but “a little cultural” as well. It’s best described as “a mix of R&B, jazz, soul, hip hop, gospel — all together.” Ms. Ross goes on to say that “line dancing has been around for long time, but now all of a sudden it is a rebirth. I think it’s a rebirth and it’s wonderful. We’re loving it.”
Some of the nine assembled ladies have been line dancing for 25 years, and some only a few months.
When they dance as a group, it’s not called a performance, but rather “a community.” This recognizes the social aspect of line dancing, which includes healthy exercise and cultural enrichment. There are numerous line dancing groups in the country, as well as large gatherings, such as a beginners ball held recently in Tennessee.
Some line dances are well established, historical movements, and still others are just being created, a recognition of the renewed vibrancy of line dancing. It starts with choosing a song, and then a choreographer will create dance moves to go with it.
The Divas
The main thing Ms. Ross stresses to anyone considering line dancing is “you have to come and want to have fun. Don’t worry about the movements,” she says, “because the movements come in time. You’ll get to meet people. It’s a way to network. It is wonderful when you come out. If you don’t know the dance, keep coming and you’ll get it.” In addition, it’s a way to “get out, dance, socialize…with the community, meet new people and just keep fit.”
Line dance groups in Connecticut will be in Juneteenth parades in Stamford and Bridgeport.
Concludes Rev. Gilbert Burgess, pastor of Community Baptist Church, “This is our effort to bring individuals out to share in fellowship, to stretch their limbs, enjoy one another, and to learn some new moves. It’s just a wonderful time of friendship and fellowship.”
John J Kriz is a 30+ year New Canaan resident. Opinions expressed are his own.
