by Masae Kusada

Diary of a Clumsy Dreamer

Confession. I’ve watched Swing Kids over a dozen times and always end up day dreaming that I’m dancing away in a frilly dress with Thomas (a.k.a. not yet crazy Dark Knight Christian Bale)Whether it’s swinging with hotties or poppin’ and lockin’ your way to avenging Chris Brown a la Stomp the Yard. We all have crazy dance fantasies, right?
The only problem is….I can’t dance. Sure, shakin’ it at the bars after a few drinks? No problem! I can do that! But partner dancing?! I’m like a dyslexic T-Rex. Go ahead, take a second and conjure that image in your head.
But sometimes you gotta be brave right? So that’s what I did. I signed up for Brian and Samantha’s Charleston class.

http://samantha-and-brian.com

Solo Charleston. Yikes! And Partnered Charleston. Double yikes!
Brian and Samantha are maybe the most charming people you’ve ever met. Their love of dance is abundant and infectious. They know how to make you laugh even when you feel like a total buffoon. There’s zero pretentiousness and tons of encouragement.

 The first class was the solo. Which is like an old-timey aerobics class. Kicking and stepping until you’re in a full on sweat. Think Charlie Chaplin Zumba.
Partner Charleston was less physically intense but even more challenging. My uncoordinated self affecting the enjoyment of others…not ideal. But all the leaders were patient and super supportive, despite kicked shins and stomped toes.

Week 1 complete. Got a few moves to practice in the safety of my own home. And no major embarrassing falls. I think all in all that equates to a good first lesson. Now I’m little bit closer to making my day dreams a reality.
So I’m gonna keep at it and keep on trying. Putting one foot in front of the other…and maybe even throw in a rock step 😉