Free beginner-level ballroom dance classes are offered each Monday night from 5-6 p.m. and 6-7 p.m. in the upper SUB McMahan Student Center. The lessons are taught by Keith Edwards, a plumber at Milligan, with assistance from Mia Matthews, the co-owner of Mountain Home Ballroom in Johnson City, TN.
Edwards, who has been dancing for 20 years, explains the inspiration behind starting dance classes at Milligan.
“Students found out that I did it,” Edwards said. “They’ve asked me if I would teach some so I took it upon myself to start some free classes.”
During the fall semester, Edwards taught the waltz and rumba. This spring semester, he taught swing and is currently teaching foxtrot.
Edwards said the biggest challenge in teaching foxtrot is helping students understand the follower’s role. He describes the most common mistakes he sees his students making, such as not keeping a good frame and not keeping pressure in their hands and arms to feel the lead dancer. He offers pieces of advice for his students to improve upon.
“Learn it right and then practice,” Edwards said. “Work on connection with your partner, have soft knees and relax, and have fun.”
Edwards said the classes help strengthen the campus community.
“It helps build relationships, communication, and confidence,” he said. “When my wife and I were dancing all the time, we were closer.”
Matthews, who grew up doing ballet, said students shouldn’t be hesitant to try the classes.
“It can be really important to know dance because it’s a universal language,” Matthews said. “No matter where you go, there is dancing. So even if you don’t speak the native tongue, you’ll be able to dance with someone, and it’s a really fun and new way to connect with people.”The end-of-year dance social hosted by Edwards will take place on April 17 with a review class from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and social dancing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Mountain Home Ballroom, located at 905 Chase Drive, Suite 100, Johnson City, TN. This event has a $5 admission fee and is open to all Milligan students, faculty and staff.
Photo: End of Year Dance Social advertisement by Mary Grace
