Monday, November 3, 2008

Dancing in Church

I had the opportunity this weekend to share dance with 6/7th grade "non-dancers" at our church. It was a great opportunity to work with kids who were not-quite sure they wanted to dance, but enjoyed getting out of Sunday School early for the chance to dance. I guess I'll take what I can get. I had them for only 15 min. which will continue from now til just before Christmas as we get ready for the Christmas program. So, what can you do in 15 min. with non-dancers? A lot. I was surprised how much I got thru in that short time, a full 32 counts! My plan was to throw a lot at them, keep the boys busy learning and then next week I'll make sure they can do it without following me. I hope they come back to class next Sunday... stay tuned.

Dancing in church is a very wonderful thing that I do not seem to make enough time for. Last year I taught a couple of classes Silent Night and brought them to church to perform. It was amazing for everyone. It was the first time Liturgical had been done in our church to my knowledge. When I was younger we visited churches all across the rural areas where we lived and it was so much fun. Funny how easy it is to forget the rewarding experiences that shaped us in our youth.

Maybe I need to get working on a new dance for Christmas it is only 8 weeks away after all!

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I grew up dancing in church, often creating solos for myself. From an early age I took creative dance classes that ignited my imagination and inspired me to express myself through movement. Because we attended and participated (my mother is a singer and choir director) in church every Sunday, it was a natural extension to interpret hymns through dance. Later, I was able to work with and teach groups as you are doing and it is always rewarding and uplifting to add movement and dance to a church service.

Have a Merry Christmas!

Unknown said...

Nichelle,

Thanks for sharing that with us. I'm sure it was a wonderful environment to grow in. How great for you to be able to do that at your church. I'm sure the congregation love every minute.

DeAnne

Releve' Dance Poster sample

Releve' Dance Poster sample
sample of poster