Are you ready for Dad Dancing?
https://www.youtube.com/embed/iSyfOtBn9gA
No self-respecting kid would ever bust some moves with their old man. Right? Well, maybe it’s time to give it a go. Dad Dancing at Paignton’s Palace Theatre on 30th and 31st March sees three brave dads take to the stage with their sons and daughters to slip and slide their way through their similarities, differences, hopes and regrets. We spoke to one dad and his son to find out more.
Pretend we know nothing. What is Dad Dancing?
Dad dancing is a moment just for dads, their dads and their children. A nurturing process to show gratitude and celebrate all thing dad!
Dad dancing is a communal dance project were you can dance with your dad, where you might not necessarily get to do it in home life. It doesn’t have to be a dad, it can be a father-figure, mum, grandparent or carer. It isn’t just workshops, its leading up to two performances.
Describe dad's dance-style before this project?
Self consciously uncoordinated.
My dads dance style was quite playful and normally ended up in a play fight in the end... I really enjoy seeing my dad dance because he looks really happy when he is doing it and it makes me happy, seeing him that happy.
What has this project taught you about yourself?
I feel a bit more confident in dancing
How showing vulnerability as a dad is not only ok but essential to connecting with your children and forming a strong relationship
What had this project taught you about your dad?
That he is quite a playful character on the inside and dad dancing has really brought that out in him. At first my dad doesn’t seem like one to dance, but the music, the people and the workshops have brought the dancing side out in him. I have also learnt some things about my dads dad that I didn’t know before.
What had this project taught you about your children?
How wonderful they are
What 3 words best describe the final performance?
Exciting Enjoyable Fun
Nerve racking, exciting and fun!
The event is part of the Doorstep Arts Festival. You can watch the performance of Dad Dancing at the Palace Theatre Paignton on Friday 30th and Saturday 31st March. Buy tickets on the door or book tickets to the show here.