Boot Scootin’ at Delton
Kick up your heels for real
Nestled in the heart of Delton lies a hidden gem, pulsating with energy and rhythm. Every week, a diverse group of individuals spanning all ages and backgrounds converge on Delton Community League to kick up their heels and dance the night away.
Stepping through the doors, I am immediately greeted by the infectious sounds of country music, setting the tone for an evening of fun and camaraderie. The room is alive with laughter and chatter as participants eagerly gather, swapping stories and sharing their excitement for the evening ahead. Soon all will be “boot scooting,” learning line dances that follow a choreographed pattern of steps to country music.
Led by enthusiastic instructors who boast years of experience and a passion for dance, these classes accept everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. Instructor Dwayne Hryniw informs me he’s been teaching for 101 years (though admits it might be closer to 30). As to the breadth of their appeal, I’m told that they recently had their youngest attendee and can now genuinely boast of participants aged eight to 80. It’s clear that they are intent on fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels welcome.
The music continues to play, and the room ripples with closely coordinated movement. From classic line dances to more contemporary routines set to modern tunes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The joy of synchronized movement is palpable as participants follow along. Each step brings them closer together as they share in the collective experience.
At the partners’ night on Wednesday, Alan and Yan say they have been coming for a couple of months. The classes are a great opportunity to get some exercise, they add, with the bonus of being able to spend time together.
Beyond the physical benefits, the dances serve as a hub for social connection and community bonding. Friendships are forged on the dance floor, with participants often gathering for post-class dinners or weekend outings to see live music. For many, it's not only about the dancing, but also the sense of belonging and camaraderie that keeps them coming back week after week. Many even followed the class from its previous location to its new home at Delton Community League.
Sometimes the reasons for coming are as simple as just wanting to line dance. Participant Ken attends the Thursday evening line dance class on his own, making the trip — 40 minutes each way — simply because he enjoys the dancing and the music. It helps that Terrylynn Kuhl is a great teacher.
Participant Linda says she also just likes to dance, so trying the class seemed like a good thing. She’s been attending for three months after finding out about it through a Facebook group.
As the evening draws to a close and the final chords fade away, a sense of contentment and fulfillment permeates the room. Participants bid farewell until next time, already counting down the days until they can once again “scoot their boots” on the dance floor. With the growing popularity of the event, they are also anticipating the prospect of welcoming new friends.
If you want to join dance classes:
All ages and abilities are invited to dance classes Wednesday and Thursday nights, with no partner required, at Delton Community League, 12325 88 Street.
Wednesday nights, 7 pm: Learn and practise a different partner dance each month. Come single or with a partner.
Thursday nights, 7 pm: Get Boot Scootin’ with the Boot Scootin’ Boogie Line Dance Crew.
Lessons are free for 2024 Delton Community League members. For everyone else, punch cards provide a chance to have $5 lessons.
Kevin has been making video games for almost two decades and writes for fun. He is originally from England, but currently lives in Delton.
BOOTS DANCE CLUB
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