Dancing with the stars in Bishopstown

Ballroom dancing in Bishopstown - waltz your way to fitness!

If you want to trip the light fantastic, head to Bishopstown Community School where tutor Kay Herlihy will put you through your moves.

Kay has been teaching ballroom dancing for the last number of years, with the waltz, foxtrot, slow waltz, quick step, and tango among the signature moves taught. Rock and roll and the cha cha are other dances also on the menu.

“I love ballroom dancing, I’m addicted to it,” says Kay. “I took lessons myself in Cork Dance Club – I still go! Dance classes are great places to make friends, and have some banter and craic.”

Popular classes
Kay’s classes are such a success that people come back year after year to help out, particularly the men. “More women sign up for ballroom dancing, so sometimes some of the men from previous years come back to help pair up with someone for the dances. The idea is that you rotate your partner.”

Couples, old and new, also sign up for the classes – and Kay has helped many a bride and groom to prepare for their first dance.

Stay social, keep fit
Indeed, her own husband was her dancing partner for many years. “We started dancing 20 years ago and I went ahead and did the exams.” An accomplished set dancer as well, she says there are plenty of dancing opportunities in Cork. “People can go social dancing in Ballincollig, Cobh, Douglas, Midleton or Mayfield. You’ll find dancing on at different GAA clubs. I always tell my classes that they should get out and practice.”

Not only is dancing a sociable activity, it’s a great way to keep fit. “Set dancing is more energetic, but people love the slow waltz or the slow foxtrot. You’d often see people dancing as if they’re a pair of gloves, a perfect fit. Dancing in general is a great hobby, you mix with every walk of life but you have no idea what they do as a day job. We’re all just there to learn. And you forget your troubles and focus on the enjoyment of the dance!”