Historian trades hiking boots for blue suede shoes

Limber extremities can be the visual apparatus for the inner spirit’s expression.

Known more for digging in the historic Roodepoort soil, Rodney Kruger has proved that his body is as much of a gift as his brain. Competing in the Professional Dance League UK, hosted by The Dance Palace, the flame-haired Travolta wowed the online judges to earn a gold placing ahead of hundreds of competitors across the globe.

Line dancing was Rodney’s weapon of choice, and he explained the oddity of performing a solo version of the quintessential country group jig. “We learn the line dances in groups according to our age and ability. Mostly we dance in lines but for the camera we had to dance alone. It’s not easy dancing alone as it makes you very nervous, with no one around you and a video camera in front,” he laughed.

At the tender age of 70, Rodney was the lone Dance Palace representative in his category, male and female seniors over 68. In the 12 years since he first began to light up the dance floor, Rodney has not limited himself to line dancing. “I love all dance, especially ballroom disciplines like waltz, foxtrot, tango Latin. However, we were limited to line dance during Lockdown 3, as it keeps us separated,” he said.

Dance is an ancient expression of joy and happiness, and Rodney encourages everyone to get involved. “Dance makes you feel great, helps you to meet people. It’s good for mental and physical health, and for older folk it’s not strenuous as it’s on a flat floor. I am 70 years old, in good health and intend to die on the dance floor,” joked the witty historian.

He gives credit to his coaches, Ty Armstrong and Wikus Jansen van Vuuren, and stresses the need for practice, saying ,”Yes, it’s a sport and like with all sports, you need training. You can’t play tennis without lessons, just so with dance. It’s not enough to go to a party and just throw your body parts around; you should learn to do it properly, then you will look good and enjoy it.”