So You Think You Can Dance at North Bellmore Library

As part of the Tweens & Teens Summer program at North Bellmore Library, Mondays in August are dedicated to So You Think You Can Dance dance sessions for teens of all dancing abilities.

Miss Marissa, a C.W. Post dance major, leads the class in "having fun, exercising and doing something beautiful."

Tenth grade Mepham student, Nina, came out to show her skills this past Monday evening. A competition dancer, she decided to take the class to "keep up with her dancing over the summer."

After a warm up routine that included stretches and Pilates moves, Marissa covered how to correctly point the toes and resistance dance moves.

Marissa believes it is integral for students to learn about the history of dance. She covered such choreographers as Isa Dora Duncan and Merce Cunningham, in an attempt to show students that dancing is not always reduced to competition.

"Television makes dancing a competition when really it's an art form."

The class centered on these modern choreographers and their routines. "I believe that teaching kids the art makes their dancing better."

Marissa also encourages all those who dance and want to dance to try it out.

"Dancing is about letting your feelings out, expressing yourself. It comes from the soul," she said. "It's for everyone."

Young Adult Librarian, Jessica Tymecki, organized the event in addition to other summer programs for teens to enjoy. Upcoming events include a Guitar Hero Tournament, teen movie night and Beach Bag Book Club.