THE DANCE ORCHARD

Who would have thought that the next tenants of an old dilapidated tyre depot would be wearing ballet shoes instead of steel cap boots?

We stood in two inches of water surrounded by floor to ceiling racks of tyres looking at the sky through the holes in the roof and found ourselves saying, "Yes, it will be perfect." Were we mad? Yes, we probably were, but if we could get all the work done and open on time it would be my life-long dream come true. My own dance studio at last!

We took over the building in June 1996. We had only ten weeks before opening. There were no toilets, no proper running water, very dodgy electrics, paint that dated from the days of being a lawnmower and hardware shop and even red paint believed to be from the original fire station when fire engines were drawn by horses! This and many other stories and comments were made to me whilst I was up on ladders and down on knees. Most were surprised by the new use this interesting building was about to house, commented on the improvements we had made and wished us well.! really experienced the village atmosphere during those ten weeks. The new school year was fast approaching. Could we do it?

We did open our doors on time in September 1996 with a role call of approximately 70 pupils. The youngest was 3 and the oldest nearing 70.

From that day on they just kept on coming. Today approximately 300 people per week enjoy walking through that pink door and leaving all their worries behind them. Whether it be Ballet, Tap, Modern or Jazz its all good exercise, challenging for the brain and great fun. Many Mothers phone up and say, "she's not built like a ballerina but she loves dancing, do I have anything suitable." My answer is always, "Of course I do."

Less than one percent will ever go on to make a career out of their dancing, the most important thing is enjoyment.

We have recently finished our second show. 276 pupils took their place on stage at Poole Arts Centre and had the experience of performing in a real theatre. To see the thrill they got out of that experience and the pride on their families faces was unbelievable.

Whether you have two left feet, spaghetti legs, think you're too large or past it to dance, think again. In short, if you have the time and the wish to dance there is a class for you.

In this, the new Millennium, when computers are taking over the world why not give dancing a try and give your brain and body a challenge.

You will find The Dance Orchard in Macaulay Road, Broadstone. Telephone number: 658613.

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