Jennifer Hanke wants people to know that dancing to live bands at the Kent Senior Activity Center isn’t just for seniors.
Hanke, 53, of Kent, dances her Tuesday afternoons and nights away at the city-owned senior center. She’s signed up with dance partner Orval Dealy for the center’s first-ever Summer Ball, which takes place 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11 at the center.
“People have a preconceived idea about what a dance at the senior center would be like,” Hanke said Friday at the center. “But it’s so much fun. If people knew how much fun it is, they would have to turn people away.”
The senior center offers ballroom dancing, and more, every Tuesday from 1:15-2:15 p.m. and 7:30-9:30 p.m. The afternoon dances are free. The evening dances cost $4 per person. The dances are open to residents of all ages.
The Summer Ball, co-sponsored by Stafford Suites, joins the facility’s lineup of the Spring Ball and New Year’s Eve Ball, giving residents a chance to enjoy a little something extra at their dances.
Featuring music by Randy Litch, the Summer Ball also features table seating, table service and dessert. The cost is $4 per person.
“It’s like a special treat,” said Hanke, who attended the Spring Ball. “It’s affordable and a lot of fun.”
Hanke and Dealy, 68, of Kent, met at the senior center, although both showed up initially at the facility to use the exercise room. They started to talk over coffee one day and decided to give dancing a try. They have been dance partners now for about 10 months.
“I enjoy the music and I have a lovely dance partner,” Dealy said. “It gives me an opportunity to spend time with her and we enjoy the same type of music.”
The waltz, fox trot, tango and electric slide are among the styles of stepping out at the senior-center dances.
“I enjoy music and I can enjoy music and exercise at the same time,” Hanke said
Hanke has even brought Seth, her 12-year-old son, to the dances, where he’s joined his mother on the dance floor.
That’s not lost upon center Program Coordinator Helena Reynolds.
“We do see people of all ages and it’s open to all ages,” she said.
Dealy and Hanke each took up dancing over the last year. They have noticed more and more people during that time coming out to give it a try.
“I think there’s a renewed interest in ballroom dancing,” said Hanke, who expects the popularity of the television show “Dancing with the Stars” might have ignited that interest. “It’s a good opportunity for younger folks.”
The senior center does not offer actual dance lessons. But many dancers are glad to offer tips, Hanke said. She learns even as she watches others dance.
The city of Kent does offer dance lessons at a facility next to Kent Memorial Park. For more information, call 253-856-5000.
The senior center won’t be offering dances Aug. 25, due to building maintenance. But otherwise, Tuesdays are your chance – to dance.
The Kings of Swing, a 17-piece band, plays the first Tuesday evening of each month and gives residents a chance to swing dance to the Big Band sound.
Dealy and Hanke plan to enjoy the Summer Ball, as well as the regular Tuesday events.
“It’s a chance to express yourself to music and just have a good time,” Dealy said. “Mostly, it’s just having a good time.”
What: Summer Ball
When: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 11
Where: Kent Senior Activity Center, 600 E. Smith St.
Cost: $4 per person, includes dessert
Tickets: For reserved table seats, call 253-856-5164
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