Longwood Does it "Dancing with the Stars" Style

By Italia Gregory
Rotunda ReporterHave you ever wanted to move like the sassy celebrities on the hit television show "Dancing with the Stars"? Now is your chance. There's a brand new club on campus and their feisty moves are sure to keep you coming back for more. If you're looking for fun, fitness and maybe even a few laughs with your friends, then ballroom dancing might just be for you!

The ballroom dancing club was started by junior Katie Hedgepeth when she decided she wanted to create a place where people could come together and learn an interesting new style of dance. "I've always loved dancing and my favorite show is "Dancing with the Stars," so I decided to get together with my friends and start a club" states Hedgepeth.

For those who may be unfamiliar with the term, ballroom dancing describes a set of partner dances that are enjoyed socially and competitively around the world. Many different styles are included. The dances that will be taught at Longwood include: the swing, tango, fox trot and waltz. Others may be added at a later date. "The club is open to everyone! Whether they have two left feet or are professional dancers, they are welcome" says Hedgepeth.

Jennifer Fulcher, a sophomore at Longwood was excited to learn that this type of dance was coming to campus. "I've been dancing my entire life, but i've never really had the opportunity to get into ballroom; when I heard that a club for this was in the works on campus, that gave me something fun to look forward to doing in the afternoon. It's a great way to get in shape and learn some new moves" says Fulcher. In addition to getting in shape, couples can come together and shake off the stresses of college life doing something that both partners will benefit from.

Elaine Godburn, Owner and Director of the Five Pointes dance center in the town of Farmville, will serve as instructor to assist those who may be new to this particular style of dance. Godburn has been dancing for 40 years, and she is currently in her 29 year of teaching. The students are very excited to have someone with a great variety of experience in all areas of dancing to encourage and perfect their skills as aspiring ballroom dancers.

"I've been teaching in Farmville since 1992. I love teaching everyone from pre-schoolers through adults. In addition to teaching various styles of dance throughout the school year, I've enjoyed the opportunity to work with couples on their first dance for their wedding, or dances for anniversary cruises, and other special events" says Godburn enthusiastically. In addition, Godburn also adds that she has been recently enjoying some hip-hop.

Although the recent popularity of ballroom dancing is attributed to "Dancing with the Stars", this form of dance has been around since as early as the sixteenth century. Since the club is new, everyone is encouraged to participate and make ballroom dancing at Longwood success. "When I think of ballroom dancing the first thing that comes to mind is teamwork. This is a sport where you have to depend on another person, as well as making sure you can be depended upon as well" states Fulcher.

The club hopes to eventually participate in performances on campus, as well as competitions and fundraisers to help other organizations. Currently, a masquerade ball is planned for the near future in conjunction with the Longwood belly dance club. Further details will be disclosed at a later date.

Meetings are held every Thursday at 7 p.m. in Curry Commons. These will be approximately one hour long in length, and during this time, members will have the opportunity to practice their dance skills and discuss important club information. "Both guys and girls are welcome, and we encourage guys to come out. Come meet new people! Faculty and staff are also welcome; it's not just for students. Also, anyone who has experience in ballroom is welcome to help out," encourages Hedgepeth.

So, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to swing, spin, and hop on down to checkout the newest addition to the club roster. By the time you leave, you may just feel like a STAR!