Before we learn to walk we already know how to dance — babies bop their heads to express joy and practice moving their bodies to the beat. So why do some of us stop?
“Dance is my self expression, a great way to stay in shape, and an amazing art form that feeds the soul,” says Tonya Goodwillie, who started taking dance lessons at a very young age and now shares her passion at Allegro Performing Arts Academy.
The Kent dance studio welcomes students as young as one, and encourages beginners of all ages to give dance a try. One of Allegro’s regulars is an 83-year-old tap dancer who has no intention of stopping.
“He’s one of my favorite people on earth. He’s the most active person I know and lives his life with the motto ‘an object in motion stays in motion.’ He’s involved in a lot of activities, but he just loves to tap,” Goodwillie says.
The 83-year-old has great relationships with younger dancers at the studio, but these past few months he’s taking advantage of Allegro’s livestream classes which allow dancers to connect from the safety of their own homes.
“We’re now open for in-person classes with a maximum of five participants for Phase 2, but continue to offer livestreams as well. It’s a great way to give dance a try especially for those that might have been hesitant to come to a classroom setting.”
Dance teaches dedication in the age of instant gratification
Allegro has a nationally recognized competition team, but also welcomes beginners of all ages who want to learn how to express themselves in new ways while developing hand-eye coordination and meeting new people. Start with the Me and My Shadow class where parents and toddlers explore rhythm while developing balance, coordination and confidence.
Have a teenager at home desperate for entertainment? Using the extra time during shelter-in-place to develop new skills? Allegro’s online classes let you try a range of genres from ballet to hiphop, and there are summer options for a variety of ages and abilities.
“It’s not just about developing dance skills and strength. Our students learn work ethic, dedication, and how to be goal oriented. As a teacher I’ve seen how beneficial it is for kids to learn these life skills,” Goodwillie says. “Plus it’s a ton of fun!”
If you uncover a hidden passion Allegro has advanced classes to help you fine-tune strength and technique, but Goodwillie is just as happy to welcome recreational dancers who want to express creativity, get exercise, and have fun.
Learn more about Allegro Performing Arts Academy at allegrodance.com, or call 253-813-9630 to find out which class is best for you or your child.
Sign up for a class with Allegro this summer and learn to dance from your living room.
Sign up for a class with Allegro this summer and learn to dance from your living room.
Sign up for a class with Allegro this summer and learn to dance from your living room.
