A passion for dance

GREG and Cindy Melson are passionate about dancing.

The couple are currently part of the cast of Shall We Dance which is playing to appreciative audiences at the Playhouse Opera Theatre. This is the fourth year they have taken part in this dance extravaganza.

Greg started dancing in 2003. He said he always wanted to take dancing lessons, but was too shy.

“I couldn't get the courage up, but one of my friends was at a class and I went to meet up with him afterwards. I was peeping around the corner and one woman told me I could go in. That was my first class and I loved it! It wasn't as scary as I thought! I was also asked to dance in other social classes as there was a shortage of men,” said Greg.

He took two years off from dancing and when he went back, he joined a class where he met a beautiful woman, Cindy.

“Dancing was my first love, but this woman was my full love! Cindy and I have been dancing together ever since and it's been amazing. I didn't start dancing to meet a wife, but it was a bonus!” he said.

Cindy said she always wanted to dance and enjoyed doing ballet when she was younger.

“I had to stop because of finances, but always wanted to get back. I met Neville Letard who urged me to start dancing. I finally gave in after a year when I had extra time. I did social classes and loved it, it is addictive! Greg joined the classes and I was so stoked to have someone to dance with!” she said.

“There's always a stigma for guys who dance, but don't knock it until you try it! My friends who started are still dancing today!” said Greg.

The couple take part in all local competitions and are novice in ballroom and gold in Latin American dance. They took part in the SA Champs last year.

“Dancing is a passion, it is my escape place. I am a personal trainer so dancing fits in well with my job. I also teach gross motor skills development to children from two to five years old,” said Cindy.

Greg works at electronic designing, and creates websites and mobile apps.

“It is a hectic job with lots of deadlines, so dancing relaxes me,” he said.

The couple said it was such an honour to dance in Shall We Dance and it was great to watch the international dancers, as it was something to aspire to.

“The show is great, there's something for everyone, from belly dancing to ballroom. We love ballroom dancing. I love the glitter, bling and sparkles in Shall We Dance, it is awesome!” said Cindy.