Line dancing brings movement, connection to Best Life Fest

KEENE — Whether it's the upbeat rhythm of country music, the challenge of learning a new dance or simply the opportunity to meet new people, line dancing offers something for nearly everyone. And at this year's Best Life Fest in Keene, attendees will have the chance to discover what makes the activity so appealing. B.O.L.D. Line Dancing, a dance instruction partnership founded by instructors Britt and Olivia, will lead an interactive line dancing session during The Keene Sentinel's Best Life Fest on Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Best Western in Keene. The festival, scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m., is geared toward adults 40 and older, offering opportunities to explore new interests, participate in activities and connect with others. B.O.L.D.'s line dancing session will run from 2 to 3 p.m., welcoming participants of all experience levels. "Attendees can expect fun, laughter, great music, and plenty of movement." the instructors said. "We'll guide participants through easy-to-follow line dances, breaking down the steps so everyone can join in, regardless of experience. No partner, special skills, or cowboy boots required." For those unfamiliar with the activity, line dancing involves participants performing a sequence of choreographed steps, typically arranged in rows or lines. Unlike traditional partner dancing, it doesn't require a partner, making it particularly accessible to individuals attending an event on their own. Although line dancing has long been associated with country-western music and dance halls, the activity has evolved to incorporate a wider variety of musical genres and styles. "Not anymore." the instructors said when asked whether line dancing is limited to country music. "While we love country music, today's line dancing includes pop, rock, Latin, and contemporary hits. There's truly something for everyone, and we love surprising people with just how diverse the music and choreography can be." That versatility is among the reasons B.O.L.D.'s instructors believe the activity is attracting renewed interest. "Line dancing is having a wonderful resurgence, and we're seeing people of all ages embrace it," they said. "It's social, accessible, and incredibly fun. Unlike traditional partner dancing, you can show up alone and immediately become part of something." While the dance steps may be new to some participants, the instructors emphasize prior experience is unnecessary. Their approach focuses on introducing movements gradually and helping beginners develop confidence in a supportive environment. "The biggest challenge is often simply having the confidence to step onto the dance floor." they said. "We remind everyone that it's not about perfection. It's about participation." They added mistakes are an expected part of learning, particularly for newcomers attempting unfamiliar choreography. "We teach progressively, celebrate the little victories, and encourage laughter when someone misses a step. That's all part of the fun." More than just dancing Beyond its recreational appeal, line dancing combines movement, coordination and mental engagement, making it an activity that can support several aspects of personal wellness. Following choreographed routines requires participants to remember sequences of steps, coordinate their movements and respond to changing musical rhythms. Depending on the pace and intensity, dancing can also provide aerobic exercise and opportunities to practice balance and mobility. For adults interested in maintaining an active lifestyle, these characteristics can make dancing an enjoyable alternative or complement to more conventional forms of exercise. "This is where line dancing really shines. It's a wonderful combination of physical activity, mental stimulation, and social connection," B.O.L.D.'s instructors said. "Learning choreography challenges memory, coordination, and concentration. The movement supports balance, cardiovascular fitness, and mobility. And perhaps most importantly, dancing brings people together, builds friendships, and creates joy." While the physical demands of line dancing can vary depending on the routine, the instructors said the activity can be adapted for different abilities and comfort levels. "We also believe dancing should be accessible. Steps can be simplified, movements made smaller, and participants encouraged to move at their own pace," they said. That flexibility is particularly relevant to Best Life Fest's focus on helping adults 40 and older explore activities that promote well-being, engagement and social connection. "We believe age is just a number, and staying active should be something you look forward to, not something you feel obligated to do," the instructors said. "Line dancing checks so many boxes for healthy aging: movement, mental engagement, connection, and fun. It's an activity you can begin at virtually any age and continue enjoying for years." Building a community through dance For Britt and Olivia, the partnership behind B.O.L.D. Line Dancing developed from a shared enthusiasm for dancing and teaching others. Britt had been teaching weekly line dancing classes at Off The Rails in Ludlow, Vermont, when she recognized Olivia's dancing abilities and interest in the activity. When Britt needed someone to substitute for one of her classes, Olivia stepped in to teach. The experience eventually led the two to establish their partnership, B.O.L.D. Line Dancing. Since then, their work has centered on introducing participants to line dancing and creating an atmosphere in which people feel comfortable trying something new. The instructors said one of the most gratifying aspects of teaching is seeing participants overcome their initial uncertainty. "One of the most rewarding parts of teaching is watching someone arrive nervous or hesitant and leave with a huge smile, a sense of accomplishment, and often a few new friends," they said. That emphasis on connection is an important part of the experience. Although participants follow individual movements, everyone works through the same choreography, creating opportunities for shared learning and interaction. "There's a wonderful sense of community that happens when everyone is moving to the same beat," the instructors said. For participants who enjoy the Best Life Fest session, B.O.L.D. encourages exploring other classes and social dancing opportunities throughout the region. The instructors said there is a growing line dancing community across New England, with opportunities for people to continue practicing and meeting other dancers. Information about B.O.L.D.'s upcoming events and activities is available through Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok under @brittolivialinedancing. An invitation to try something new Best Life Fest attendees interested in participating in the line dancing session are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and secure shoes or boots that allow for easy movement. No previous experience or dance partner is necessary, and the instructors plan to guide participants through the routines step by step. For B.O.L.D., the goal is less about mastering the choreography than helping attendees discover an enjoyable activity they might continue long after the festival concludes. "Our goal is for everyone to leave smiling, energized, and feeling accomplished," the instructors said. And while learning a few new dance steps may be the immediate attraction, the instructors hope participants leave with something more lasting. "If there's one thing we hope people take away from this experience, it's that you're never too old to try something new, make new friends, or discover something that brings you joy." The Keene Sentinel's Best Life Fest takes place Saturday, Nov. 7, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Best Western in Keene. B.O.L.D. Line Dancing will lead its session from 2 to 3 p.m.