Walnut Hill: Sassy Club Swings

Step back, step front, switch the hip, side step and feet together. This is one dancing sequence taught at the Teen Ballroom class at Take the Lead Dancing Studios located on 4701 Pine Street.

Shuffling their feet across the floor, these 7th grade students have been dancing since 5th grade in the Dancing Classroom Philly Saturday Scholarship.

Dance instructor, Kate Rast, has been teaching ballroom dance for about five years. Yet, Rast has been dancing ballet and modern dance since she was three years old.

She enjoys watching the student’s progress with their dancing and comfort levels increase with one another. Their giggles and shyness is expected at the beginning, but the young dancers are gaining confidence in their moves.

“It’s tough for Fee-Fee being the only gentleman. Ladies have it easier,” Rast said.

Despite their initial fears, the young dancers are active in class and asking for help when needed. At times, they got tined up learning the waltz.

“Waltz is like your floating. You don’t want to make it sharp,” Rast said.

The last class for the spring semester is Saturday, May 8th. The students will show the simple two-step, graceful waltz and sassy club swings to their parents.

Trenae McDuffie, Walnut Hill