Tango Lessons Bring 'Drama' to Perry Hall School

For about an hour on Tuesday, fifth-graders at transformed from boys and girls into ladies and gentlemen. Under the direction of professional dance instructor Caitlin Foley, they were tango dancers.

"This is a very dramatic dance. This is the man's dance," Foley shouted above the crowd of eager students in the school's gymnasium. "But ladies, it's not just the gentlemen who have the drama—you get to be dramatic too."

Some cheered at her announcement, while others giggled shyly. At an age (10-11) when cooties remain a perceived hazard, students appeared relaxed and comfortable in traditional ballroom positions.

"At first it felt really weird, but it felt better after a while," said student Sam Vermette. "It helped me learn how I like to dance."

is one of 13 Baltimore County elementary schools hosting the Fifth Grade Ballroom Stars dance program for the first time this year. A total of 26 schools now participate, according to a county news release.

For one week, a professional dance instructor teaches students several basic dances, ranging from merengue to swing. At the end of the week, the students dress up and perform for teachers and parents.

Physical education teacher organized the effort for the school to host the program. It came at an additional cost to the school, according to Principal Christine Smith, which was covered in full by the PTA's 5th Grade Steering Committee.

"It's just a different way to get exercise, and look at them—they're happy," Smith said.

Assistant Principal Christine Davis said she was impressed by how quickly some of the children picked up the dance steps.

"Some kids are naturals. Even when the dance is over, they're still moving to the music," Davis said.

Student Phoebe Canoles said she had never done ballroom dancing before the program. "It was kind of different at first, but it was fun after I tried it," she said.

Her friend Zoe Hammel, who had some previous experience with "theater dance," said she was excited about the formal performance on Friday.

"This is a fun new style of dance," she said.

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