PORT ANGELES — People with Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis or other neurological disorders — as well as their spouses, friends and caregivers — are invited to a specialized dance class at the Sons of Norway Hall, 131 W. Fifth St., at 2:30 p.m. Monday.
“No previous dance experience is necessary,” said instructor Corrie Befort, who teaches adapted dance classes around the Puget Sound region.
She will lead the dancing. Cost is $10 for participants and free for their companions.
Befort brings in a live musician and emphasizes fun above all. Her classes cover a variety of styles and address balance, flexibility, coordination and gait.
In addition to Parkinson’s patients, “people with MS, stroke, arthritis and other neuromuscular conditions are very welcome,” Befort said, adding that the class is open to people of all ages and levels of mobility.
Seeks helpers
Befort also is seeking local dance teachers as well as musicians — preferably pianists, cellists, violinists, percussion players and guitarists — to make more classes available here.
“Dancing to live music with other people generates real, physical joy,” said the teacher, who has a fine arts degree from Seattle’s Cornish College and experience with choreographer Mark Morris’ dance regimen for Parkinson’s patients.
She can be reached at 206-910-3017 or corriebefort@gmail.com.
In addition to Monday’s session, Befort will lead dance classes at the Sons of Norway Hall on July 9 and Aug. 13, again at 2:30 p.m.
For more information, visit www.DanceforParkinsons.org.
A Parkinson’s support group meets the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Port Angeles Senior Center, 328 E. Seventh St.; details about it are at 360-457-5352 and djones@olypen.com.
________
Features Editor Diane Urbani de la Paz can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 5062, or at diane.urbani@peninsuladailynews.com.
