Face the Music and Dance

Posted by brideblog

Posted: May 25, 2008 - 9:18 pm

In the spirit of working out and looking good at our wedding, Brian and I have participated in not one, but two dance classes through the Anchorage Park District. Just call us Fred and Ginger.

Last fall, we took Latin Dancing with Barbara and this past “semester,” we took Ballroom Dancing with Carl. Of all the pre-wedding activities you’re supposed to do as a couple, this is the one I would most highly recommend.

Of course it was my idea initially. There was some mild groveling, some “do we have to” whining, and a little bargaining and bribing, but once we started going, Brian was a great sport about it. Plus, if you EVER were going to convince your partner that a dance class would be something fun to do together, there’s no better opportunity than before your wedding day when you have to dance together anyway in front of people you know. Some couples already have natural talent. Maybe some couples are comfortable sticking with the classic two-step rock, the one we all used in eighth grade to dance to classic love songs like Boys II Men “End of the Road” and Guns N’Roses “Don’t Cry.”

Brian self-diagnosed his case of two left feet, and was willing to accept the extra coaching. You should see him now. I wish I had a “before and after” clip. His repertoire has expanded ten-fold, since before lessons, his big moves were “the dip” as portrayed by John Candy in “Uncle Buck,” and the “stir the pot” victory dance. Now, he can rumba and cha-cha with the best of ‘em. You should see him caress the floor with his foot-fans in the tango.

I’ve benefited from dance class too, since most of my dancing career has been spent in solo dance-offs or at weddings with my sister where naturally, I was always the lead. I needed to learn how to “Let go and Let Brian.” As Instructor Carl would say, the dance floor is the one place where the man is still in charge. We’ve both come a long way, because now Brian leads with charm and finesse, and I’m learning to be a better follower and to better respond to his directions, while still providing suggestions for the next move once we’ve been in the same “conversation” for half the song.

Taking dance class has been as rewarding as it’s been humbling. Whether we’re waltzing or mambo-ing, it’s given us a chance to learn something new together, get a little bit of exercise and get to know the way we move together. Plus, it’s the one day of the week I were heels. Did I mention Brian’s 6’2”? And did I mention I’m 4’10”? The heels are essential, and they make me feel tall and pretty. I like to pretend…

There is something very timeless about dancing together. There is an elegance and a connection to tradition. I’m not saying we’re going to remember any of the footwork by the time October 11 rolls around. I am saying that the experience of dancing cheek to cheek, even in the clumsiest of moments, has been quite heavenly.

I feel very fortunate that my partner was willing to take dance classes with me. Look out, Dancing with the Stars. Here we come.

We should watch that show more often to become familiar with our competition, but that’s where Brian draws the line in his domain of masculinity. I’m ok with that.

To learn more about the Anchorage Park District dance classes, visit http://www.muni.org/parks/SpecialEvents.cfm.

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