- April 26, 2024
-
-
Loading
Loading
The nonprofit dance hall was opened on Hand Avenue, by three volunteers.
BY WAYNE GRANT | STAFF WRITER
Sometimes, you've just got to dance. But don't worry, Jim McClellan, Angela Ionita and Ward Case have you covered.
The trio are the main operators of The Ballroom, a new private, nonprofit dance hall at 1250 Hand Ave. For full access to the competition-sized dance floor, a first year membership can be purchased for $40. Annual renewals are $20.
President Ward Case and Vice-President Jim McCellan work as volunteers. Any funds left over after expenses at the end of the year will be donated to charity.
“We started it because we wanted a place to dance,” Case said. “We come for fun. People who want to dance have a good floor to dance on and good music.”
The oak dance floor is 40 feet by 70 feet.
People can also learn to dance at the club. There are private lessons, workshops, group lessons and themed dances. Ionita, the secretary, is a professional dance teacher and offers lessons.
As for styles, The Ballroom keeps it changing, from country swing, rumba and Argentine tango, to milonga waltz, fox trot, merengue, cha cha and sometimes even country swing. The venue is also available for event rentals.
But before being remodeled into a dance hall by Case and McClellen, the space was used as a warehouse. Membership fees will pay the bills for construction. Donations are also requested at each dance.
“Many people of all ages come for the social aspect,” said Laren Barrett, a friend of Case and McClellen. “Some are looking for a new life partner and friendship, exercise and the challenge of learning a new skill. Many now have the time to do something they love.”
But dance is also healthy.
“We have a 96-year-old gentleman who dances nightly and stays healthy and happy,” Barrett added. “He offers flowers to the ladies after a dance.”
She said the disk jockey booth was donated by a woman member as a tribute to love and to commemorate how she and her husband met.
There is a ballroom dance 7-11 p.m. every Friday night. Themes and hours vary for other nights, and schedules are available.
Call 341-3232.
