Salmon Arm was up and dancing at Roots and Blues, but for those who wanted a bit more technique, the Roots ‘N’ Rhythms Dance stage didn’t disappoint.
From Bollywood to the jive there was a variety of styles and instructors to help anyone who wanted to try. Despite the fact that it was isolated in a corner, attendance held steady. The record number is 95 people at once, but rarely was there less than 20. The stage attracted all ages, from kids to seniors.
Jacqueline Kral came up with the idea five years ago as a way to get people to relax and feel comfortable.
“I remember bumping into Hugo (Rampen) one day on the street and I said I’d just love to get all of Salmon Arm up and dancing…,” she said, “That idea grew to creating a dance stage at the festival so that people would have that opportunity to try something new and exciting.”
The goal is for everyone to come out of a lesson having learned two or three steps without being overly challenged. It’s also a way to introduce a wide variety of cultural dances to people who otherwise might never try it.
This year Kral worked half an hour performance showcases into the schedule. Instructors dressed up and performed so onlookers could get a taste of what the dances looked like and decide which one they might try.
This was the also first year Bollywood and hoop dancing was offered.
Samantha Sambrielaz and Jamie Cuberos from Latinesque in Kelowna taught the salsa, bachata, jive and la rueda de casino. Sambrielaz said the bachata on Saturday was most popular.
“It was really a lot of fun,” she said. “I think most of them are here for the music and the dance is just a bonus. It’s a way to interact with the music.”
A total of 18 instructors and performers participated.
“It’s not about doing it right or making a mistake, it’s just having fun and having that experience,” she said.
Yoga was held twice a day, first thing in the morning and again at 5 p.m. for the last session. Instructor Reanna Costa from Sorrento’s Breathe Yoga Studio said the festival atmosphere is suited for yoga.
“It’s such a great environment to do it at because you’re outside and you get to hear the music that’s playing, so we just thought it would be a great addition to the festival,” said Costa.
Above all, Kral believes the dance tent is a natural attraction at the festival since dance and music go hand in hand.
“Music makes you want to dance.”