Ria is a volunteer and was involved in the "Dancing Neighbours" cultural project. Before retiring, she worked in the city administration.
I found out about the Capital of Culture project "Dancing Neighbours" through a newspaper advertisement and two friends. At first I was sceptical - because I had no previous experience of dancing - and then such a strange name! However, acquaintances who took part assured me after their first visits that no previous experience was necessary. This was also stated in the adverts. The project is organised by the EU Japan Festival Committee every year in a cultural capital by Japanese artists. The organisers in Chemnitz succeeded in attracting the director of the Silver Dancers, Yoko Ando Matsumoto, from Yokohama. In the country with the oldest population, the practice of dance has proved very successful for this generation. That convinced me!
You can take part in the dance project at 3 locations in Chemnitz. I decided in favour of the Soulstudio in the Ermafa-Passage. I was allowed to take part in the trial training. I was impressed by the pleasant atmosphere, the detailed explanations from the dance teacher and the intense full-body movement. But nope - I wasn't allowed to join the dance class straight away and was put on the waiting list. The person responsible for the older generation was incorruptible! Fortunately, I was soon accepted and am now one of the 100 dance enthusiasts. At first I felt awkward as I couldn't internalise the choreography so quickly. But the community helped and comforted me.
The weekly training lasts around two hours. In addition to the physical exercise, it challenges the mind. Step sequences have to be memorised. Mutual support is a matter of course. Our dance teacher, a former prima ballerina, gives precise and encouraging explanations. The artistic director organises the performances with us - in the botanical garden, in residential areas or at the summer party of the Saxon Prime Minister. There will be 20 in total. Dancing is good for body, mind and soul - especially important in old age! Our oldest participant, 89 years old (or young), is the best example of this. His doctor confirms that he is completely healthy for his age.
Due to the great interest, the project leader has set up an additional summer group for the older generation in the Schiller Garden, i.e. outdoors. This increases the number of dancers once again.
Five intensive courses with Japanese dance teachers are the highlights of the project. Choreographies are rehearsed with us with great patience and perseverance. The Japanese approach is particularly exciting: the anatomical focus is on the "collarbone". While the word is difficult for the Japanese to pronounce, the challenge for us is to move correctly along this bone.
I now also like the name "Dancing Neighbours". In addition to our shared passion for dancing, we also meet up for walks, dance parties and meals together, just like good neighbours.
I have a dream: I wish we could continue to work and dance with our Japanese friends as an art project and spread their great idea for the older generation to the world for the physical, mental and spiritual health of us all. You can have dreams!
