AFTER a break from competition of almost a decade, Kimberley’s Emris Dance School was back with a bang – or perhaps I should say a slide, a shuffle and shake – when the school’s dancers made a triumphant return to the national stage at the 17th SA Masters competition.

The competition, held in Bloemfontein on July 5 and 6, saw Emris Dance School representing the Northern Cape and Kimberley in the discipline of line dancing after an extended break. The Emris competitive team showed that they hadn’t missed a step though, bringing home an impressive haul of seven gold medals, one silver, two bronze, and a fourth-place finish.

The success of the Emris team at the SA Masters is a testament to their hard work and dedication. Competing against some of the best dancers in the country, the team’s outstanding performance highlights the talent and commitment of both the dancers and their instructor, Elmarie Fourie.

The results are not just a personal victory for the dancers but a significant achievement for the Northern Cape and Kimberley dance communities, showcasing the region’s potential on a national stage.

Speaking to the DFA, Elmarie expressed her pride in the team, saying, “Seeing our dancers perform so well and bring home such fantastic results is incredibly rewarding. It’s a testament to their hard work, passion, and the supportive community we’ve built at Emris Dance School.”

Emris Dance School, founded in 2003 by Fourie, has long been a cornerstone of the Kimberley dance community. Elmarie’s passion for dance began at a young age, and she established the school with a vision of creating a nurturing and inclusive space for dancers of all ages and backgrounds.

From its humble beginnings, Emris Dance School has grown into a vibrant community where students come to learn, grow, and express themselves through the art of line dancing.

Now for those who do not know, line dancing is a form of choreographed dance where a group of people dance in lines or rows, typically facing the same direction, and perform a sequence of choreographed steps in unison.

Unlike partner dancing, where dancers interact with a partner, line dancing is performed independently, although dancers often synchronise their movements with those around them. This dance form has its roots in various folk traditions and gained widespread popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in country and western dance halls.

Line dancing can be performed to a wide range of music styles, including country, pop, rock, and Latin, among others. Each line dance is typically choreographed to fit the rhythm, tempo, and mood of the music, with dancers moving in sync to create visually appealing patterns and formations on the dance floor.

Overall, line dancing is not only a fun and engaging form of physical activity but also a social experience that promotes camaraderie, coordination, and creativity. This means that whether you’re looking to learn new dance steps, meet new people, or simply enjoy the music and joy of movement, line dancing offers something for everyone.

However, line dancing is more than just a competitive sport at Emris; it is a way to build community and foster personal growth. The discipline and coordination required to perform intricate routines helps dancers develop physical fitness and mental sharpness.

Simultaneously, the inclusive and social nature of line dancing allows participants to form strong bonds and create lasting friendships.

With Emris Dance School now back on the dance floor, the future looks bright for its dancers. Whether participating in social dances or preparing for competitive events, the school remains a beacon of creativity and inspiration in Kimberley.

The school’s achievements at the SA Masters serve as a reminder of the power of passion and perseverance, which could inspire the next generation of dancers to follow in their footsteps.

For those interested in joining the ‘funtastic’ world of line dancing, Emris Dance School offers a welcoming environment where anyone can discover the joy of movement and become part of a thriving dance community. With their recent success at the SA Masters, Emris Dance School has proven that dreams and dedication can indeed lead to gold.

If you would like to join the team and get involved in line dancing, contact Elmarie Fourie at 084 662 0205.

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