There's graceful aging and graceful grooves present at regular weekly dances for seniors in Nanaimo.
Happening every Thursday at the Bowen Park Activity Centre, adults 55-plus are invited to dance to live music through the evening.
Judy Squire, on the executive committee that organizes the dances, said she first became involved about 15 years ago when a friend invited her. Since then, she has been coming most Thursdays to take part. Through it, she said she made lasting friendships.
"It's a really social place for people," Squire said. "It's not only social, there's dancing, you meet friends."
The Amigos and Double Play give live performances, rotating each week, with music including ballroom and country western. Occasionally, there are themed nights, for example '50s rock 'n' roll.
Couples and singles are welcome, and those who attend don't need to join in the dancing, they can just enjoy the music if they prefer.
"I have some wonderful friends I met only through dance," Squire said. "Some of them, we go to other dances together."
The dances are every Thursday from 7-9:30 p.m. in the Bowen Park Activity Centre's auditorium. Cost to participate is $8 for members and $10 for non-members. There is no charge for first-time visitors.
"Come and try it, it's a lot of fun," Squire said. "If you love music, make sure you come because it's warm and friendly, and it's exercise."
