While the adult ex-pats amongst us are very well catered for as regards clubs and societies, there is a growing need for activities which are geared towards the ever increasing numbers of children and young people in our midst. This makes the Children’s Dance School, Torrevieja a most welcome addition to the scene and in the short few months since its formation last September, it has proven to be a tremendous success.
The brainchild of Suzanne, who is a fully qualified dance teacher and a member of the Dance Teachers Federation, the school now has in the region of 70 students. It caters for both girls and boys of all nationalities, from ages 2 to 16, and is based in Casa Ventura, San Luis. Classes are held every Saturday morning from 9.30 hrs. and Suzanne provides training in ballet, tap and disco dancing.
At the moment, the students are working hard and polishing their performances for their first exams which take place on June 26 and 27, this year. Two professionals from the UK will examine the students in both the theory and practical side of ballet and tap dancing.  Medals and certificates will also be awarded over the two days and this will see the students dancing on their own, in their costumes and in front of an audience of mums and dads. As Suzanne commented “this provides more of an impact and it is nice for the children to receive their awards on the day”.
While the school provides training in ballet, tap and disco dancing, students may choose whichever dance style or styles they prefer. As Suzanne explained “ballet gives students the perfect grounding in the fundamentals of dance and it teaches many of the essential skills involved, including discipline and poise”.
On my recent visit to the school in Casa Ventura, it was a treat to watch as the young dancers were gently guided through their paces by Suzanne. From the beaming smiles on their faces it was obvious that they were enjoying themselves as much as their teacher. With over 30 years of teaching experience behind her, Suzanne has a wonderful natural touch when it comes to children and she is never afraid to praise her students on particular aspects of their performance. This is what truly characterises her style of teaching and shows that she has a deep understanding of the role that encouragement and positive reinforcement can play when it comes to character and confidence building. Already, Suzanne can spotlight many promising dancers amongst her students.
Not alone content with being a dance teacher, Suzanne is actively involved in putting together a cabaret dance group and runs a twice weekly ladies keep fit class. Also, being a trained weight consultant, Suzanne has recently formed a slimming club whose aim is to promote weight reduction through a personalised approach to healthier eating.
For further information on any of Suzanne’s various activities, she may be contacted on 647-082-021.