Line dancing has roots in folk and country dances. But if a dislike for western-inspired music keeps you from heading over to the Twin Falls Senior Citizen Center to join the Let’s Dance Club, you’re letting stereotypes drag you down.
If the music has a steady beat, it’s suitable for contra or line dancing, said Let’s Dance owner Galen Slatter, who holds multiple dance sessions at the center every week. On Mondays there’s contra and line dancing, and Tuesdays are for line and square dancing.
“There are only a few basic steps to learn and you can go for it, regardless of the music,” Slatter said. “It takes a while to really get the steps together, but it isn’t too complicated.”
His daughter Maureen Padilha added: “If you can walk, then you can dance.”
Slatter’s dances are family friendly. There’s no alcohol, and children under 14 are welcome when accompanied by an adult. Even though it’s an open dance, there is plenty of instruction for beginners, by either Slatter or more polished boot scooters.
On a recent Tuesday, Slatter called out line dances like the Snake Shake and Electric Slide for a small but jovial group of dancers.
Jean Wagner of Twin Falls has been a regular since this fall, grateful to find an outlet for a passion picked up while living in Soda Springs five years ago.
“When I moved back to Twin Falls I really missed it. I didn’t want to be part of the bar scene, so when I saw Galen’s dances in a pamphlet I jumped at the chance,” Wagner said. “I had a blast and come every chance I get.”
Out on the floor, Wagner grapevines like a pro. One foot moves to the side while the other comes behind it, then the first foot moves to the side and the second slides next to the first.
“I love it so much it’s like no one else is in the room, that’s how absorbed I get,” Wagner said.
With just seven dancers on the floor there wasn’t enough manpower to execute a proper square dance, where partners are needed, so the group continued on the line.
“It’s not real formal and all about having fun. We just go with what the dancers want to do,” Slatter said.
Newbie Ramona Etcheto of Twin Falls had attended the dances only four times but said she’s hooked.
“I came to meet friends and get some exercise. So far it’s been great for achieving both,” Etcheto said.
Slatter hopes to expand dance opportunities. But for now, people can Skibumpas nights away at the senior center.
Blair Koch may be reached at 208-316-2607 or blairkoch@gmail.com.
