POLOKWANE – Wally Strauss, owner of Baila Fitness Dancing Studio in Polokwane, is proof that it’s never too late to reignite a lost passion. For Strauss, dance has always been a part of his life, dating back to his high school days when he pursued it as a serious subject. He even performed professionally on cruise ships, dancing in front of international audiences.

However, after the Covid-19 pandemic, Strauss found himself drifting away from dance.

“It was my wife, Liné, who encouraged me to return to my passion and also reminded me that something so meaningful shouldn’t be left behind.”

What started as a passion for dance and fitness evolved into dance fitness classes, and eventually, a broader vision was born.

“I wanted to create a space where people could experience the physical benefits of dance, as well as the joy, creativity, and cultural richness it offers, and so, Baila was born,” Strauss said.

He explained that ‘Baila’ means ‘dance’ in Spanish, a language he speaks, and a culture he’s drawn to.

“The studio offers inclusive and accessible dance fitness classes for all genders aged between the ages of 12-82, with no prior experience required. It’s not about doing it right or perfectly, it’s about doing it. Just move.”

Baila also offers contemporary classes for kids aged 6-12, private classes for different styles, wedding dance lessons, and monthly sokkie nights.

“I believe that dance has the power to impact the community beyond the studio walls, bringing people together and creating connections. Dance has the power to impact a community far beyond the studio walls.”

Running Baila has stretched Strauss in ways he never expected.

“It has taught me valuable lessons about entrepreneurship, leadership, perseverance, and how important it is to pray and stay connected to Godly people who hold on to the same dreams and visions as you.”

Strauss would love to partner with other businesses who are willing to invest in the same goal.

“My goal is not to compete with other dance studios in the area, but to contribute to the local dance industry and collaborate with other studios. As one of the few male dance instructors in the area, I believe I bring a unique perspective to the studio.”

With Baila, Strauss wants to create a space where people can come together, move, and experience the joy of dance.

“Dance strengthens not only bodies, but people – and when people grow stronger and more confident, the entire community benefits.”

Strauss concluded that whoever brings a copy of the Polokwane Observer to the studio (at 115 Diemeer Street), will get a free month of dance fitness classes. “This only applies to the new comers.”