Families Learn New Steps at Christmas Dance Party

Emma Hughes
Gila River Indian News

Let’s Dance Gila River held its first Christmas Dance Party geared toward father/daughter and mother/son duos.

Founded in 2018, Let’s Dance Gila River offers a variety of dance lessons to the Gila River Indian Community and Phoenix area, taught by dance instructors Nichole Roderick, District 5, and Gary Rodriguez, District 1.

On Dec. 22, families dressed their best for a festive Christmas dance party held in the gymnasium at the District 4 Service Center, complete with decorations and small gifts for participants.

Roderick and Rodriguez provided introductory lessons on country two-step, bachata and waltz to father/daughter and mother/son duos of all ages.

“It was awesome. This is primarily forbeginners and people who are just trying to learn something new,” said Roderick.

A young participant who attended with his mother said, “It was pretty fun, even though I don’t like dancing that much.” The family said they’re thankful to Let’s Dance Gila River for organizing the event.

Over the years, Let’s Dance Gila River has partnered with GRIC’s Tribal Recreation & Wellness Center to provide free dance lessons and activities throughout the Community’s district service centers, including the Christmas Dance Party.

“Let’s Dance Gila River is primarily based for beginners, veterans, elders, and children; pretty much everybody,” said Roderick, who just wrapped up with elders that began in November, “It was really awesome, we did tango, fox trot, and a little bit of two-step and some bachata.”

Let’s Dance Gila River is also available for private individual and group lessons for every skill level, prices range from $850 for beginner lessons and $1,200 for special occasions such as wedding or formal events. For more information, visit letsdancegilariver.com.

For more information on classes held in the Community, call (520) 562-2026 or visit the “Gila River Wellness Center” Facebook page or mygilariver.com.

 “We’re just letting you know we’re here, we love to dance, and we’re all about the beginners,” said Roderick.