Legendary playwright George Bernard Shaw described dancing as a vertical expression of a horizontal desire. This is especially apparent in ballroom dancing, sometimes called partner dancing, which has recently taken the Big Island by storm. From Kona Ballroom Dance Club
Legendary playwright George Bernard Shaw described dancing as a vertical expression of a horizontal desire. This is especially apparent in ballroom dancing, sometimes called partner dancing, which has recently taken the Big Island by storm. From Kona Ballroom Dance Club to the Blue Dragon Restaurant, and the newest venue, Gertrude’s Jazz Bar, locals are filling up their dance cards and lacing up their ballroom shoes.
Ballroom dance instructor Lance Oliver started dancing in his early 20s and hasn’t stopped since. He now teaches various styles of partner dancing to all levels of students, from first timers to more advanced dancers wanting to hone their skills.
“Most people start ballroom dancing by inquiring about private lessons, because they want to get a head start to going out and socially dancing with people they know, and they want to feel comfortable doing that,” said Oliver. “Or, they can get involved in group classes right away, depending on their comfort level.”
Ballroom dancing is growing in popularity, not only on the Big Island, but also around the country. Proponents of partner dance are quick to point out that dancing is one of the best ways to stay in shape, both physically and mentally. It’s not only a great way to keep the mind and body active, it also improves social lives by encouraging participants to get out and meet new and interesting people.
“Here in Hawaii, there are lots of things to do during the day,” said Oliver. “You can go swimming or hiking, but at night, people tend to be stuck in a rut where they watch TV, or they’re stuck on the internet. To enhance your life and increase your health, dancing is the perfect opportunity to enhance your life and increase your health. You could fill your whole life up — not just during the day, but at night, too — doing productive things for your mind and your body.”
You don’t have to be on “Dancing With the Stars” to reap the health benefits of ballroom dancing. All levels of ballroom dancing burn a significant number of calories, allowing one to stay in shape and expand their social circle at the same time. From dance parties every third Sunday at the Kona Elk’s Club, to social dance nights every Tuesday and Thursday at Gertrude’s Jazz Bar, there are now more venues to practice new dance moves.
“The most popular ballroom dances on the Big Island are salsa, swing, and Argentine tango,” said Oliver. “And the ballroom dance scene is growing in Kona, especially since Gertrude’s Jazz Bar opened and actually gave people a place to go and dance, especially on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Then there are other places to go on the weekends, as well.”
Oliver believes one of the main things people get from ballroom dancing is self-confidence.
“Students learn a very valuable skill that is not very common because it does take some time to learn,” he said. “They feel confident within themselves and they feel confident in social situations. The feel like they can go anywhere and fit in. If you go out anywhere where there is music, people who dance generally have more fun than people who don’t.”
To learn more about ballroom dancing visit Kona Ballroom Dance Club’s Facebook page, or email Lance Oliver for information on dance lessons at lvoliver@yahoo.com. ■
