Boys Tap Dance Class Starting

There's a new tap dance class for boys (ages 7 to 13) starting at Vinnie's Jump & Jive this Friday at 5:45 pm. The teacher is Lynn Agnew, a veteran dance instructor - I've been taking her Wednesday evening tap class** and she's a terrific teacher. The boys class is perfect for complete beginners or boys who've had a season or two of dance class.

There's something about giving boys a space to learn tap that's all their own - and it's an option that's been lacking in Central CT (believe me, I've been looking.) More so, it's hard to find kids' dance classes that focus on solid technique instead of preparing for recitals - that's much better for any dancer in the long run.

Lynn runs her classes on a month-long cycle - it's a drop-in class and you don't have to pre-register. Each week, in addition to learning basic steps and combinations, you'll learn a bit of a routine, adding more each week. Then it all starts over the next month. She's great at managing different skill levels in the same class, so you're always moving forward. You'll need tap shoes for the class (here's an opportunity to patronize the Dance Outfitters in Main Street Market, 386 Main. But let me know in the comments if you'll need a boys size 5M - we've got last year's pair sitting here.)

When my 9-year-old saw what I was writing, he wanted to contribute his own review. Here it is:

"It's like....fun because you're learning new things and the music isn't what comes out of the radio - it's tapping music. Sincerely, Kobi. (I vote 5 stars)."

It's $12 per class, or $40 if you pay for a month at a time. For more info on the class, call Lynn at (860) 343-3635. Vinnie's Jump & Jive, at 424 Main Street, is a community dance hall that offers classes and participatory dance events. There's info on more of Vinnie's offerings at www.vinniesjumpandjive.com, but the website is not as up-to-date as stopping by for a monthly calendar.

**Calling all hoofers old and young - Lynn runs beginner (7 pm) and intermediate (8 pm) tap classes on Wednesday nights at Vinnie's - awesome!