SHIMMYING and boogying back to the stage, Shall We Dance returns for its 31st year to The Playhouse’s Opera Theatre from September 12 to 14. Returning to the stage is Yellowwood Park’s own Shelly Dady, who is loving being on the show again.

Also read: Yellowwood Park Latin and ballroom dancer aims to inspire people through dance

Dady said this year she will be involved with two troupes, Razzmatazz, merging the style of fosse with the magic of choreographer Pam Gandy, and the Mark Wilson Latin Formation Team, performing a rumba and samba.

Dady’s interest in dance came at an early age, when she learnt modern, tap and ballet. She eventually settled on ballet until she discovered ballroom and Latin American during her high school years. “I was hooked. I danced competitively in ballroom and Latin for years,” said Dady.

She added that she is so excited to take the stage once again. “I’m so happy to be part of Shall We Dance again. It’s the best experience because of the heart and dedication of all the people, on and off the stage, that make this show so unique. It’s the music, applauding for the other dance groups, and the laughing at tiny mistakes only we dancers know, that make this a memorable experience,” said Dady.

While her focus is now on her 11-year-old son, who has recently picked up the dancing genes, Dady admits she would love to get back into competitive dancing again some day. Until then she said Shall We Dance is her outlet.

“Some days are tough when you’re fatigued and going back and forth between school activities, rehearsals and home life. But that feeling of being up on stage, exchanging a smile with another dancer halfway through the routine, is all worth the hard work, hours and aching feet,” said Dady.

This year’s production will have it all, from ballroom and Latin to Indian, modern and ballet, with special numbers by emcee Lisa Bobbert and company of the International School of Performing Arts. Professional Latin pair Darren Hammond and Marina Steshenko are also on the bill, with a tribute to Chicago The Musical as part of its 50th anniversary tour.

For more details, visit Shall We Dance Durban on social media. Tickets are available at www.webtickets.co.za.

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