Let's Dance: One of the Oldest Forms of Self-Expression Alive and Well in Oswego

Dance has been an important part of civilization as far back as Biblical times and earlier.

People danced in celebration, as part of important ceremonies like weddings, for religious worship and, of course, for their own pleasure. Dance is still a vital part of life today. Dance clubs are filled with people every night of the week. Cities and towns no matter how small have dance studios where boys and girls learn ballet, tap and jazz.

In Oswego there is no reason to go to an expensive dance studio to study dance. The Oswegoland Park District holds dance classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, poms and many other styles. Held at Boulder Point on Boulder Hill Pass classes, which begin this week, are for children as young as 3 years old. Adults can enroll as well.

There are, also, classes which focus on parents and kids learning together like the Mommy and Me Ballet and Mommy and Me Tap classes. Classes include a recital in the spring and some classes will perform at PrairieFest. The two performances are an exciting opportunity for students to shine at their newly acquired skills, as well as a chance to get comfortable dancing before an audience. It is the highlight of the year for many of them.

Why has dance lasted so long? Oswego resident and mother of two, Tyna Ashman has one explanation, “It's expression in its purest form. No matter what language one speaks, no matter what ethnic background one has, everyone gets movement. Both of my children danced when they were younger.”

Besides being the most ancient of arts and a universal mode of communication, there are many modern and practical reasons to study dance. “Dance is a double whammy.” said Mercedes, mother of Mary and Alexandria Hazenkamp, both long-time dance students. “It is art and fitness together.”

Fitness experts and scientific studies tell us that professional dancers are the most physically fit athletes in professional sports. Studying dance paves the way to lifelong fitness. Additionally, it bestows strong posture and grace.

“Dance helps young people get comfortable with their bodies. This gives them confidence with the opposite sex, their peers and throughout life.” said Hazenkamp. “I introduced all of my kids, boys and girls, to dance. It is important to expose kids to many different activities. You never know which one might become a lifelong love.”

Perhaps the best reason to study a particular style of dance is that it improves your skill at all other forms. If your 'thing' is shakin' it up to house music at the club on Saturday nights, a class in jazz, hip hop or even ballet will make you look even better on the dance floor Saturday night.

Former dance student and long-time Fox Valley performer, Marla Holman sums it up this way. “Dance is inside of us all. Dancing is what happens when Joy fills our bodies and stirs our limbs to action.”