Stop! Don’t Learn Steps First
Rio Rhythmic’s “Tell your dance story” project aims to highlight the accomplishments, transformations and achievements of members in our community.
John’s dance story
John, what first brought you to dancing?
I was on a semester exchange in Chile when a friend dragged me along to a salsa class in the middle of Santiago. Initially I was hesitant and I didn’t really learn much in the 10 weeks I went to those Salsa classes.
When I got back to Brisbane, however, the same friend once again persuaded me to go to a Salsa class at the University of Queensland. Surprisingly, I really enjoyed it and was not happy with my mediocrity. Thus, I enrolled at Rio Rhythmics doing Cuban Salsa and Salsa Rueda. The rest, as they say, is history!
What appealed to you about Latin dance?
I liked being able to communicate so much with someone else without having to say a word. I also liked the ‘wow’ factor of busting out some moves with my non-dance friends.
How would you describe your journey so far? Moving in a straight line or going the scenic route? What do you hope lies ahead?
My journey has been fairly linear. I’ve been dancing since about August 2016, starting in Cuban Salsa, before taking up Zouk Lambada halfway through 2017.
In the future, I hope to keep enjoying it.
What is the most important thing that dance does for you?
It provides an escape and a friendship group outside of the day-to-day existential dread that hangs over student life.
Have you learnt something dancing that has surprised you?
I’m surprised by how many friends I’ve made to be perfectly honest. You meet so many people of all shapes, sizes, nationalities, genders, and abilities and it’s amazing to think that the one thing that binds you all together is a passion for dance.
What would you say to others who are thinking about giving it a go?
Dive in the deep end straightaway. I think dance is one of those activities that is impossible not to like. It is so fun and there are so many beautiful people doing it!
You can start dancing now! Call us on 3844 1824 or email dancing@riorhythmics.com.au to find out more.
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