• February 27 (Friday) 7-9pm Ballroom Dance Classes- All ages welcome. Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, 108 New Braintree Road, North Brookfield. The whole family will enjoy a relaxed, fun time learning classical ballroom dances in a wholesome, uplifting environment. There is no charge.

Shall we dance?

By Ruth M. Lyon
Turley Publications Reporter
NORTH BROOKFIELD - Do you shine on the dance floor? Do you dazzle your partner with fancy footwork? Are you the envy of the Saturday night set? Do you wish you could be?

Here's your opportunity to hold a beautiful woman in your arms, or be held by a graceful gentleman, share an evening of fun, and experience the excitement of learning to practice what has become a nearly-lost art - ballroom dancing.

And you don't have to dress in a tux or a gown. This is come as you are, gain confidence, grace and a lithe body as well.

And it's free. According to Alan and Angela Wright, members of the Mormon Church in North Brookfield, they decided they'd like to share their expertise in a manner that would benefit the community.

"Young people have rarely been exposed to traditional ballroom dancing these days," Alan said. "Once they learn a few basic steps, they'll find it fun and useful forever. Of course, we like to promote the atmosphere that accompanies these dances, the lighting, the mood and the manners. But there are advantages beyond that. It's relaxing, it's exercise, and promotes good interaction between males and females of varying ages. It's a pleasing diversion from what's ordinarily available in a small town."

The lessons began two weeks ago, and were originally scheduled to continue Friday nights through the end of February. If there's interest, the lessons will continue, the Wrights said. Tonight (Friday, Feb. 20) Alan will be away, but Angela will be there to lead the group in practice, and, if necessary, assist late joiners with basic steps.

Dress casually, and remember, you're never too old, or too young; to learn is the byword here.

Alan recalled his own introduction to dance, while a student at Brigham Young University. He and a classmate, he said, observed the practice of the school's precision
dance team. They especially observed two beautiful young women, members of the team. They immediately developed an interest in joining the team and applied. After lessons and other appropriate requirements were fulfilled, they joined the team. Yes, they got to meet and date many lovely young ladies, became excellent dancers, and, as a result, traveled extensively as team competitors.

Along the way, Alan met Angela, also a student at BYU. Now the parents of eight children ranging in age from ten to 22, they moved to the Rochdale section of Leicester six years ago. Alan is a research scientist for the federal government at Natick Labs, Natick; Angela keeps the home fires burning and the kids on track as a stay at home mom.
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hey want everyone of any age to know they're welcome to join the 7 p.m. Friday night lessons. Just stay on Route 67, near the North Brookfield-New Braintree line, and look for the new church.