It has been an entire year since I wrote an article here; time really does fly! I needed to take a break from writing and knew something would happen to trigger my mind’s return to the keyboard and sharing my thoughts. I want to thank Charlie for accepting me back!
In December 2025 I got a message from a dear friend of mine. Her cousin is the owner of a dance studio in western PA who had received a request from Dock Side Cellars, a winery in Clark, PA. The event manager, Floyd, was in search of a dance teacher for a 1920’s themed experience that was scheduled for January 2026. He wanted to combine the Charleston period dance with line dancing, if possible. My friend’s cousin immediately thought of me for this unique blend.
Since I had never been to Dock Side Cellars, I did some research and found out that they opened on Labor Day 2024. While scrolling through their Facebook posts, I saw the various events they held over the previous year, which included line dance instruction. Since I didn’t want to “step on anyone’s toes” I decided to reach out to Floyd to discuss exactly what he was looking for and why he wasn’t using the regular line dance instructors who taught there.
While speaking with Floyd, I was impressed with his knowledge and commitment to offer this 1920’s three-night event. He explained that none of his usual teachers were available or felt qualified to combine the Charleston with line dance. With my background in tap & jazz, along with line dance, Floyd presented a proposal that I couldn’t refuse. Over the next few weeks, I spent time choosing easy beginner line dances and pairing them with music from the Charleston genre. Obviously, I chose a well-known local dance called the “Charleston Cha Cha” but I also included a dozen more dances. Then I decided to find a dance that I hadn’t previously taught, so I went on my most-used step sheet website and found one by an Ohio choreographer, Frank Trace; this dance fits perfectly to the song “Charleston” by Sam Levine:
Little Charleston
Floyd is a master at creating informative posts and this occasion was no exception. I was inspired by his descriptions and honored by the comments. A few days before the event, a previous student asked if I was “ready for my comeback” which stirred me to create a Facebook post quoting LL Cool J: “don’t call it a comeback…” In actuality, I have no plans to start teaching weekly or even monthly again, but I’m grateful for Floyd’s offer to bring me out of ‘retirement.’
Unfortunately, the brutal weather in the area played a key factor in attendance the night of my comeback. I was happy to teach those who braved the cold elements, plus visit with old friends. Floyd was so kind and understanding; he stated he will keep me in mind for the future. Take my advice and check out Dock Side Cellars on Facebook; they hold distinctive events and also offer private parties!
Since her comeback, Dori Yez is motivated to continue writing, so stay tuned!
