Inclusive dance classes in Hexham return after almost two years

Freelance dance teacher Molly Grey's classes 'Express Yourself Dance', for adults with learning disabilities, and 'Movement for your Mind', which involves seated to standing dance-based movement for all including those with neurological conditions, re-started this month.

"It was a bit emotional to be honest," said Molly.

"They were all raring to get back. The social side of it is just as important as the actual dancing.

"It was really good to be back and to not have the restrictions in place as well. I didn't want to come back and have the restrictions, and it not feel like it always has done."

The 'Movement for your Mind' class involves seated to standing dance-based movement. Picture: Claire Batey.

Molly (30), of Stocksfield, began the classes at Hexham's Torch Centre in 2017.

Molly teaches a variety of classes, including at schools, but said her main passion is teaching inclusive classes.

"I injured myself in dance training which made me experience being that participant who couldn't access everything that everyone in my class was doing," said Molly.

"That made me think, 'Ah, what if someone with a disability came to my classes, how could I make a movement I'm doing adaptable?' so they feel like they're getting just as much as able-bodied people do from a session."

On the benefits of the classes, Molly said she has been told by those who bring the participant along how much better their mood is, and that they often have a "spring in their step".

Molly Grey teaches the classes at Hexham's Torch Centre. Picture: Claire Batey.

Both classes are held on Thursdays, with The 'Movement for your Mind' class between 11.15pm and 12.15pm, followed by the 'Express Yourself Dance' class from 12.15pm-1.15pm.

To find out more, contact Molly on 07943804161 or email mollyfreelancedance@yahoo.com