Ballroom to Burlesque: Leeds group proves age is just a number

As part of Age Without Limits Day, Leeds-based AVSED members enjoyed a unique and inspiring event to challenge perceptions of ageing and celebrating the idea that it's never too late to try something new.

The session, titled Ballroom to Burlesque, took participants on a journey through two very different styles of dance, led by talented tutors Ping and Aurora from Dance Studios Leeds at Greenacre Hall recently.

The morning began with a Ballroom Dancing class led by Ping, who guided members through a series of elegant movements and classic dance steps.

An AVSED spokesperson said: "Participants took part both seated and standing, demonstrating that dance can be enjoyed by everyone regardless of mobility.

"Members moved together across the ballroom floor in sequence, following Ping's instruction, sharing smiles, laughter, and memories of dances gone by.

"Following a well-earned break and plenty of conversation about past ballroom experiences, the group stepped into a completely different world with a lively and empowering Burlesque workshop led by Aurora.

"Aurora introduced members to the fascinating history and art of Burlesque, exploring how it combines performance, confidence, humour and self-expression. "Participants learned playful movements, teasing techniques, and even had the opportunity to dance with feather boas and gloves before coming together for a fun group routine.

"The event was about far more than learning dance steps. It encouraged members to challenge stereotypes about ageing, embrace new experiences, and reflect on how society views older age. Throughout the day, participants demonstrated that confidence, curiosity and fun have no age limit."

One participant said: "I never thought I'd be doing Burlesque in my eighties, but I absolutely loved it. It made me feel confident and made me laugh."

Another commented: "The ballroom dancing brought back so many wonderful memories, and then the Burlesque showed me I'm still capable of surprising myself."

The spokesperson said: "AVSED would like to extend a huge thank you to Dance Studios Leeds, and especially tutors Ping and Aurora, for creating such an engaging and enjoyable experience.

"Their encouragement, enthusiasm and expertise helped members aged from 60 to 90 embrace the day with confidence and enthusiasm.

"The event perfectly captured the spirit of Age Without Limits Day, proving that age is not a barrier to trying something new, expressing yourself, learning new skills, or having fun.

"It was a wonderful reminder that age is just a number, and that challenging ageism starts by refusing to let it define what we can do."