Silver Swans dance their way to better health at Centre Stage in New Hamburg

Dancer Irene Edwards from Cambridge, dancer Nancy Reid from Waterloo and dance instructor Donna Bender in last week’s Silver Swan dance class. Amanda Nelson photo

By Amanda Nelson

Centre Stage Dance Studio in New Hamburg is getting praise for offering its popular adult dance classes, including a Silver Swans ballet class, which gives dancers a chance to learn ballet or build on the foundation they developed when they were younger.

Donna Bender, founder and director of Centre Stage Dance Studio, started the class after two of her students from another dance class said they wanted something more challenging. With a class size of no more than eight dancers, Bender knew the class would be ideal not only for those with a ballet foundation but also for those who have never danced before.

She said with the smaller class size, she can focus on foundation building and technique for each dancer in a personalized way.

Dancer Claire Wilson, 90, is the oldest of the dancers and says she not only enjoys the program's community aspect but also notices her balance improving each week.

“I was never a good dancer, but this class certainly keeps me active,” she said. “It’s quite demanding, as I haven’t exercised for years before taking the class. I’m building muscle in my legs, and I’m working on my balance.”

The program is not only attracting locals but also bringing in women from across Waterloo Region, including Nancy Reid from Waterloo and Irene Edwards from Cambridge.

“There are adult ballet and dance classes closer to home,” said Reid, “but those classes are for everyone, and you may be in a class with an 18 year old who has been doing ballet their whole life.”

She said the class is more than just physically challenging; it's also mentally challenging.

“Not only are you building strength by dancing, but you also need to use your brain,” Reid said. “It’s challenging to remember what to do next. Donna will go through the exercises and steps, and you need to focus on that while also maintaining your posture.”

The women in the class say Bender’s focus on foundational strength is helping them in their everyday lives as well.

“What I like about Donna is that she explains what you're doing, like making sure you're turning out from your hips, the importance of keeping your shoulders down and where you should feel it in your body,” said Reid.

“It’s not just exercise, it’s a real pleasure to be in this class,” added Cathy Bowman from New Hamburg. “The movements in ballet are very controlled, and the music is pleasant. It’s less aerobic than other classes, but it’s still demanding.”

The program is offered to anyone, whether experienced in dance or not. For more information, visit www.centrestagedancestudio.ca/adult-class.