Gill Horitz

I Feel Out Of Breath But Pleased
Tea Dances - a place for movement and personal storytelling

'This is the first time I’ve danced for 22 years – I feel out of breath but I’m pleased.' said a participant at one of the regular tea dances run as part of Bournemouth Borough Council's Arts Development programme.

Three musicians from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra perform in church halls around Bournemouth, playing well-known dance tunes from the 'twenties to the present day.  

The events were popular with ballroom dancers as well as people who attend day centres.  Tea Dances are an opportunity to be out in the community. 'Dancing makes you feel with things and that’s good for you', explained one attendee.  

The occasion stimulates personal stories about dance and music making. 'Dancing’s always been a part of my life.  Once I was engaged to a dance bandleader.  If you ask me, I like the Quickstep best – I can do my own thing.'

Another person remembered, 'I went dancing in the West End at the Astoria, heard Jo Loss, I went three or four times a week, there was no television then; that was our entertainment.'

Sometimes the music encourages people with mobility problems to stand and with support move to the music, while others dance energetically, moving in a way they've not done for years.  'Because,' said one nonagenarian whilst taking a breather, 'dancing is good for your heart, for exercise.'

'Music and dancing are keys to retelling peoples' vivid stories' says Gill Horitz, Arts Development Officer at Bournemouth Borough Council.  

‘After the tea dances, we visited four centres with a musician from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and a storyteller, to play music and talk with people about their musical lives.  These stories are being transformed into a play which will be performed by older actors in centres and community venues.'

Another tea dance attendee said, 'Music still comes to you, you know.  I've been sitting here listening, I can't bend or anything but once you hear that music it makes you feel you want to get up.'

Music awakens rhythm in the body and rhythm makes for movement, mind and body.