Newsletter October 2025
- Oct 1, 2025
- 4 min read
What is this month
Cumbria
Wednesday, 1st October, marks our Bootle Village Wellbeing Walk. This event is open to everyone. It’s fully accessible and takes about 45 minutes. Join us for a refreshing stroll!
On Thursday, 2nd October, we celebrate the 5th week of our Everything Waltz course. Then, on Thursday, 9th October, we invite you to our Medieval Evening. As always, it will be a Jacobs Supper with a raffle and a prize for the best costume. Bring your family and friends! The cost is £6 for those who have not attended the course.
This month, we celebrate Janet and John’s 5th Anniversary and Janet’s Birthday! Please note that we will be closed from 11th to 25th October for the celebrations.
Newcastle
Exploratory R&D led by Sophie Hutch and Louise Stern focuses on natural objects like stones. The team shares these objects, uncovering their meaning through somatics and movement.
A Rhythmic Journey: Unveiling the Rich History of Salsa Dance
Welcome, dance enthusiasts and cultural aficionados! Today, we embark on a vibrant exploration of one of the most iconic and electrifying dance forms: Salsa! The history of Salsa is a dynamic fusion of cultures, rhythms, and emotions that have captivated audiences around the globe. Join me as we journey through the captivating origins and evolution of this passionate dance style.
Origins of Salsa: A Melting Pot of Cultures
Salsa, often described as a marriage of Afro-Cuban beats and Latin sounds, has deep roots embedded in the diverse cultural tapestry of the Caribbean, particularly in Cuba and Puerto Rico. Emerging in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Salsa was born out of a melting pot of Cuban Son, Afro-Cuban Rumba, and Puerto Rican Bomba. It was infused with elements of Mambo and Cha Cha Cha. The spirited fusion of these rhythmic influences gave birth to the vibrant and energetic dance we now know as Salsa.
The Dance of Passion: Salsa Evolves and Spreads Its Wings
As Salsa music gained popularity in the bustling streets of New York City, the accompanying dance form began to take shape. The intricate footwork, sensual hip movements, and lively spins of Salsa dance captured the essence of the music’s pulsating rhythms. From the iconic Palladium Ballroom to the vibrant dance clubs of Miami and Los Angeles, Salsa quickly became a cultural phenomenon. It transcended borders and united people through its infectious beats.
Salsa Today: A Global Phenomenon
Fast forward to today, and Salsa has transcended its roots to become a global dance sensation. From salsa congresses and dance competitions to social dance events in every corner of the world, the passion for Salsa continues to thrive. Dancers of all ages and backgrounds are drawn to the enchanting allure of Salsa. They embrace not only the technical precision of the moves but also the emotional connection forged with their dance partners.
Tips for Aspiring Salsa Dancers
For those eager to dip their toes into the world of Salsa, here are a few tips to kickstart your dance journey:
Find a Reputable Instructor: Learning from experienced instructors can help you grasp the fundamentals of Salsa and refine your technique.
Practice Regularly: Like any art form, practice is key to mastering Salsa dance. Dedicate time to practice your moves and internalize the rhythm.
Embrace the Music: Salsa is all about the music! Develop an ear for the beats and let the music guide your movements.
In Conclusion
In essence, Salsa dance is not just a series of steps but a vibrant expression of culture, passion, and joy. Its history is a testament to the power of music and dance in connecting people across borders and generations. So, whether you're a seasoned dancer or a curious beginner, let the infectious rhythms of Salsa sweep you off your feet and into a world of movement and music like no other.
This month's Dance Quote
On dancing on pointe: “Why don’t they just get taller girls?” — attributed to comedian Henny Youngman
What happened last month
Cumbria
We held our first Bootle Village Wellbeing Walk. There were nine of us and three dogs. As you can see from the picture, it rained, but we still had a great walk and talk.
Strictly started, and we have our sweep going. The winner will receive £15, and Janet will donate another £15 to the Village Church Clock Fund.
John took his Wellbeing Rambles Walk Leader Qualification.
Newcastle
We’re thrilled to share that Anthos has received an Award of Honourable Mention at the New Renaissance London Film Festival 2025!
SADT - Trustee Meeting
This month's BSL Sign
As we wonder who will be last in next week's Strictly.
Three picture slot
This month's poem
When Hope Learns to Dance
The world is heavy, drenched in grief.
It’s time for TV’s soft relief.
A single twinkle in the eye
can tilt the earth, can lift the sky.
Not hatred’s weight, but humor’s fire,
A dancer’s gift, a true desire.
No guns that roar, but glitter’s frame.
From every land, the coaches came.
I do not measure, do not weigh,
I simply watch them find their way.
Each step, each turn, a quiet proof
that skills are learnt and hearts take root.
And in this craft, we’ve learned the same
that joy survives, and hopes remain.
By Janet Bosson
Enjoy reading!
