Pinchbeck Tappers prove that dancing is a great way to keep fit

If you think tap dancing is a thing of the past, then think again.

Of course, there are many classics from days gone by that claim our attention when we think of the genre - Gene Kelly in Singin’ In The Rain, Ann Miller in Kiss Me Kate, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in many old favourites, to name but a few.

But - as one group continues to prove - tap continues to play an exciting role in modern culture.

An elated Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling getting close in La La Land and Jamie Bell hitting the cobbles to A Town Called Malice in Billy Elliott are just two examples.

And let’s not forget the Boogie Wonderland sequence in Happy Feet.

But you don’t need to travel to Hollywood, you can still get your fix closer to home if you put your dancing shoes on and join the Pinchbeck Tappers in their range of classes... which is set to include a beginners’ group.

The tap dancing group have been running for nearly 20 years.

Organiser Nicky Lavis welcomes everyone to their new beginners six week course which started Wednesday, January 11.

The class takes place every week on Wednesdays 10.30am to 11.15am at St Mary’s Church Hall, Pinchbeck.

Following her love of dance, Nicky Lavis started up the group after recognising a demand in the area.

Nicky started tap dancing at the age of 10 and is full of knowledge and experience.

There are currently three classes that are popular with a range of ages, from dancers in their 40s to their 80s.

Depending on who is being taught Nicky makes sure the lesson is at a correct pace and suitable for everyone.

Tap is a distinctive style of dance, characterised by the additional percussion sound which comes from specialist shoes striking the floor during moves.

Its roots can be traced back hundreds of years to British and West African traditions which evolved into popular stage - and later big screen - entertainment.

But as well as creating mesmerising shows, tap dancing comes with a range of health benefits for the body and mind.

Physically it will help with balance, co-ordination and will contribute with staying fit and healthy.

Taking part in the classes also helps by getting the brain activated with learning new routines as well as keeping socially active.

Nicky said: “ It’s all about enjoyment and the social aspect.”

“It is important everyone is involved whatever their ability.”

“Everyone who currently attends the classes are supportive of one and other inside and outside of the classes.”

The beginners’ adult tap six-week course costs £25 to attend and consists of learning basic steps and simple routines.

- Contact Nicky to book a place by emailing snarehit@btinternet.com or calling/texting 07988 738519.