Dance and PD
There is a strange revolution quietly taking place in the Parkinson community: dance. It would seem two things could not be farther apart than PD and interpretive dance. However, the Mark Morris Dance Group (MMDG), a world renowned dance troupe, has shown that the opposite is true - people with PD greatly benefit by pursuing dance and have a wonderful time to boot.
Their classes at their head office in Brooklyn, NY are jam-packed every week. They have been featured on National Public Broadcasting; a video of what is going on was presented on Boston TV, and the fun is contagious. We know of groups in Illinois and Massachusetts that have started and the word is that this is just the beginning. To see videos of actual classes, go to the MMDG website.
The CPWG is pleased to announce that the two dance classes that it sponsors in Middletown and New London will continue as they have been at least through the summer of 2010 . By that time it is hoped that we will have found either a permanent source of funding, or other sponsors.
Dance and PD at Middletown
Preregistration is not required; drop in at any time. A family member or caregiver is encouraged to join us too. Just bring your two left feet and a willingness to try something new. Wednesdays 1:30 to 2:45 PM. As always, with CPWG, there is no tuition or other cost.Dance Instructor: Laura Richling
Telephone 203-675-2930
E-mail laura.richling@sbcglobal.net
Vinnie's Jump and Jive
Location 424 Main Street Middletown, CT 06457
Telephone 860-347-6971, ext 3777
Website www.vinniesjumpandjive.com
Dance and PD at Conn College
We are pleased and grateful to the College and Dance Department for their wonderful attitude and graciousness in letting us use the superb facilities they have made available. We knew they were smart - now we must add enlightened.Now for some details:
The classes are not ballroom dancing, but individual, often interpretive or improvised dance. You do not need a partner; however, please invite a partner if you can. There will be a time for an instructor led warm-up as well. The dance class will meet every week on Wednesdays, 10:30-11:45, Myers Studio (air-conditioned) 3rd floor student center.There is parking in front of the center and an elevator to the third floor where the class meets
There is no charge for people with PD and their partners. All levels are welcome - chairs are provided for all.
For persons completely mobile to those in wheel chairs.
The instructor is Rachel Balaban, a professional dance teacher.
The music will be taken from several genres, from jazz to classical to broadway to ethnic.