With the continued popularity of shows like Dancing with the Stars and Strictly Come Dancing, audiences are being drawn into the excitement and allure of ballroom dancing, and soon 4017 locals will have the chance to give it a whirl in a fun, supportive environment.
After teaching and performing all over the world, professional dancers Derek Roofayel and Tracey Milburn are bringing their talents to the Sands Bowlo to share their love of dance with the local community this month.
The sibling duo will teach popular classics like the cha-cha, tango and foxtrot as both a social and fun way to stay active while learning some new moves.
“We now have time again for people to experience the joy of dance that we had throughout our career,” Tracey said. “Couples of all ages, singles, mums and dads, grandparents and friends are all welcome to join us.”
Dance Background and Class Details
With their parents owning their own dance studio for around 40 years, Derek and Tracey were immersed in the dance world from an early age before each went on to build impressive professional dance careers of their own.
“Derek was a junior champion in Australia, later moving to England and then America, where he became an owner of a Fred Astaire Dance Studio franchise in midtown New York,” Tracey said. “He taught competition students for several years before moving back to England with his family and eventually back to Australia.”
Tracey also took her talents to the international stage through both teaching and performance work alongside her husband, Chris.
“Chris and I had the honour of dancing for Australia around the world for many years,” Tracey said. “Once we retired, we had the privilege of performing and teaching on Cunard’s flagship Queen Elizabeth 2, doing many Atlantic crossings and three world cruises in the mid-1990s.”
After years of travelling, performing and teaching internationally, the siblings are now enjoying the opportunity to share their passion closer to home with classes to be offered every Thursday evening.
“The Sands Bowlo’s Bar will be open to buy refreshments and nibbles,” Tracey said. “Or, if you’re interested in a meal before our dance class, The Sands Social Restaurant is open for dinner at 5pm. See you all there!”
Ballroom Dancing Lessons
- Thursdays, 6.30-8.30pm (starting 4 June)
- The Sands Bowlo
- 7 Burnett Place, Sandgate
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