The women entered the room in ones, twos, and girl squads. A group of active seniors, another group in their 20’s, one likely in their 40’s, etc. There were 18 of us in the room now – 3 distinct generations, and most were new to Bollywood dancing.
A Ladies’ Night is a chance to let your hair down! But get a diverse group of women together in a room and you’ll find that most of us share similar reservations about moving our bodies. Perhaps it is a feeling of self-consciousness, shyness, or just an unexpectedly rough day holding us back.
As I introduced myself
After a brief warm up, we reviewed some basic Bollywood dance vocabulary, and jumped straight into our dance routines. Little by little we relaxed with the music, our newly acquired Bollywood dance vocabulary, and the camaraderie we were building.
The closest we got to dance like no one’s watching is when we turned the lights off!
In our 20’s to 70’s and everything in between… silly and sensuous, shy and carefree, we connected with ourselves, and with a roomful of mostly strangers.
If I am able to create a welcoming space where individuals can express themselves without the weight of judgement, especially their own, then it was a good day!
As it turned out, this particular Friday ended up being a good day. When asked to share their favorite parts or the most profound memory from the night, here’s what the women had to say:
“Learning to be fluid and sensual again!”
“Dance like I don’t care”
“So much fun learning different routines. Especially enjoyed lights out and everybody let their hair down. Thank you!”
“A perfect girls’ night. Loved every moment!”
“I loved that we had a chance to express ourselves!”
“Combining my personal dance style with Bollywood. I would have never guessed!”
“I loved being able to let loose & move!!”
“Loved the drama of the movements and cutting loose!” – JW
“Very fun. You made us all in touch with our inner Bollywood dancers. Very low key and good the way you broke the dances the dances down to each movement.” – Wendy
“Loved the music and instructor – to much fun to shimmy! More please!”
“So much fun! Take the move, own it! Make it yours!”
“I loved the choreography! So fun! Freestyle w/ the lights out!”
“My favorite moment was when I closed my eyes & body moved. Loved it! More please!”
“I love the teacher’s enthusiasm. This was such a fun evening. Please do it again!” – Elaine
“Thoroughly enjoyed! I just need to loosen up more.”
“Had a blast! Swati was wonderful. So colorful & happy! Thanks so much.” – Anne Marie
“Swati is a wonderful teacher. Made the dance look so easy. Never done it before. Thank you!” – Shila
Community Bollywood Dance Project 