More dancers wanted to rock and roll

Rock and roll classes are being held in Matamata, in the hope it will rekindle interest in the dance.

Teachers Paul and Jennifer McCormack have been rocking and rolling for 16 years.

They were both members of the Matamata Rock and Roll club, which dissolved a few years ago, due to declining numbers.

Paul says many dance clubs closed around the country, but some are starting to gain momentum again, and the former past president of the dissolved Matamata local club is hopeful to reignite interest.

‘‘It used to be a big club. This is a test to see if we can get it going again.’’

The energetic couple took up rock and roll after Paul gave up smoking and started putting on weight.

‘‘I needed the exercise and I always wanted to learn,’’ he said.

Paul and Jennifer, along with daughter Courtney attended lessons, and they were both hooked. But for Paul it’s the 1950s music that keeps him going.

‘‘Elvis, Buddy Holly, it’s good, nice, happy music.‘‘

Paul says at its peak, the Matamata Rock and Roll club was well attended.

‘‘We used to fill this room (Rawhiti Room) once upon a time, you would have to see it to believe it.’’

Rock and roll is described as a fun, happy dance, steps are small, fast and light. The man leads and it’s his job to direct his partner and make her look good.

The McCormacks have never competed, it’s not what dancing is about for them. Jennifer just loves the socialising it gave them, they made life long friends through different clubs.

Jennifer says it’s the only way she can ever get Paul on a dance floor. Paul says it’s the only time he gets to be the boss.

There are plenty of compe- titions held regularly around the country, there were a few for the Matamata club too when it was still active.

‘‘First prize was a big chocolate fish, second prize was a smaller chocolate fish,’’ laughs Paul.

Lessons started last Thursday at the Rawhiti Room of the Mata- mata Club, from 7.30pm, and continue for five more weeks. Paul says it’s not too late for new people to go along and catch up.

About eight couples took part in the initial lesson learning the first of 12 different steps.

‘‘Once they get the basic steps, they will be away,’’ says Paul.