Former Dancer Puts Her Spin on Ballroom Dance Classes

Former Broadway dancer Geri Dougherty returns with grace and style as the dance instructor for the Kemper Center’s Ballroom Dance classes this year. Beginner and Intermediate classes are taught in the Simmons Gymnasium in four-week sessions year round.

An Introduction to Ballroom Dance class is held on Tuesday evenings from 7-8pm and an Intermediate, or Ballroom Dance Technique Enhancement class, is held on Thursday evenings from 7-8pm. No matter your experience or age, Dougherty’s elegant and skillful dancing allows everyone to easily pick up the steps.

Dougherty has been teaching Ballroom Dance at Kemper Center for seven years, but was previously a dance instructor at Arthur Murray for twelve years. In her youth, she took first place in the All American Dance competition in Madison, Wisconsin.

“I love the art of dancing by virtue of its energy and precision,” said Dougherty. “I love helping others share in that enjoyment and see the results in both body and mind.”

Dougherty’s Broadway experience is extensive; she performed in musicals such as “Guys & Dolls”, “My Fair Lady”, “South Pacific”, and “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”.

The Ballroom Classes cover basic steps including the waltz, foxtrot, tango, salsa, cha-cha, rumba, and other classic styles. Perfect for weddings, special occasions, or just as a new hobby, ballroom dance is a great way to get healthy, improve balance and posture, and just have fun.

The next four-week beginner sessions begin on March 10 or April 14, and the next four-week Intermediate sessions begin on March 12 or April 16. Lessons are $75 per couple for all four weeks.

For more information or to sign up for the next session of classes, visit www.kempercenter.com or call (262) 653-0481.