Taking Flight: A critical point of connection
A critical point of connection
I remember watching on television about the benefits of dance for all a good few years ago, presented by our very own President, Darcey Bussell. I sat eagerly on the edge of my seat as I had my first glimpse of Silver Swans. I was online researching even before the programme had ended and registered there and then.
The waiting list for classes at the RAD in Battersea, my nearest provider, was long, as I could only do evening classes at that time.
But a year later, having had a taster session in a studio off the old, cobbled courtyard, I was on. And so, my participation began.
I have now been a Silver Swan for about six years, and I just love it. At the start I enjoyed just being reminded of the exercises I used to do as a child, feeling once again the sheer joy of dance. It then became a hugely important in retaining my mobility as the arthritis I had had since my early 40s progressed through both of my hips. Then came the pandemic. We were so fortunate that the RAD quickly adapted to providing classes online, with them becoming a critical point of connection during that difficult time. I remember becoming rather emotional on more than one occasion by just moving to music, seeing fellow swans in our respective rooms, bonded by our love of dance.
After the pandemic I had to undergo a double hip replacement followed by three months on crutches. Once again Silver Swans became central to my life, this time to my rehabilitation as I returned first to barre exercises only and then to a full class.
I can hardly recognise myself now, moving without pain, strong of limb, fit and healthy. I now take three classes a week, two Silver Swans and one general adult technical class, and I performed at Wimbledon Theatre last year with fellow swans in the first ever Dance School show. I have made so many friends through Silver Swans, too, with different permutations of us going to watch ballets, meeting for drinks, supporting each other through life’s events.
I look forward to reading your own stories, sharing our love of dance and the physical, mental and social benefits it brings regardless of age.
Thank you, RAD!
Elizabeth Honer
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