Speaking volumes with dance: Kent studio shines behind passionate instructor | SLIDESHOW

While everyone else strutted in their parachute pants or chased after the ghosts in Pac Man, Joselito Castillo was having a different ’80s experience that wasn’t so tubular.

“I was really angry at society in the ’80s …” he said.

Coming out to his parents and moving halfway across the country took its toll on his emotions, so like most young adults from any era, he turned on the radio and danced his problems away.

Now, after being a choreographer in Kent and Seattle for more than 25 years, when Castillo plays those same ’80s songs during rehearsal, he not only looks back at the past with fond memories but also looks forward into the eyes of his dancers who embody this totally awesome spirit for his newest show titled Drum Machines and Night Club Screams.

Owner, director and dance instructor of Kent’s South Side Dance Force, Castillo believes that dance is a language that speaks to all.

“I love it because it is total communication with the universe and people,” he said.

Expressing his passion for dance with words was almost impossible for him, but seeing his movement and energy on the hardwood floor in the back of the studio, it was clear that Castillo has dedicated his entire life to his love of dance.

Moving from Utah to the West Coast as a young man, Castillo encountered modern dancers who didn’t fit the stereotypical bill, dissolving his old perceptions of dance and opening up his world to a new kind of creativity.

“I moved to Santa Barbara, and everything changed,” he said. “It taught me it doesn’t matter what size you are or what color you are.”

Castillo brought that attitude back to Kent, encouraging all people from the area with an interest in dance to come by the studio and try it out.

“I love to take what people have, amplify it and refine it,” he said. “(But) my poor dancers, I throw them for a loop. “

When choreographing shows, Castillo explained that he creates around his dancers, calling them the “paint for (his) canvas.” This technique makes each show as unique as the performers themselves.

So come rehearsal time for his ’80s show, the personalities of each performer clearly stood out with every tussled hair flip and pirouette.

“I just want to take people back,” Castillo said. “Remember the ridiculous way we looked, and we thought it was cool.”

Leg warmers and sparkly headbands alongside bright, multi-colored socks help complete the costumes. And snippets from the Eurhythmics, Pat Benatar and Paula Abdul accompanied by a medley dedicated to Prince are included in the set list.

“It’s basically (about) having a good time,” Castillo said. “Everybody’s got great memories with these songs.”

Performances are at 8 p.m. on March 29 and 30. Tickets cost $10 and can be purchased online at www.brownpaperickets.com or at the door.

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ON STAGE

South Side Dance Force: Presenting a dance showcase performance of the fabulous music of the ’80s at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 706 Central Ave. S., Kent.

Tickets: $10 through www.brownpapertickets.com; limited tickets will be available at the door.

For mow information, call 253-639-5829 or visit www.ssdanceforce.com.