Dance with Sonia Brown

Bringing dance to the over-55s with fun and passion, Dance with Sonia Brown has been put forward for the Community of the Year award sponsored by Hilton Reading.

Those who attend Sonia Brown’s weekly classes were enthusiastic in their praise.

In the words of one: “Sonia has inspired me to get off the couch, meet new friends and have fun, dancing like a ballerina, tapping like Fred Astaire and jazz dancing like a teenager.

“Who would have thought it possible as I approach 70 years of age that this world would open up for me.

“Sonia has such a passion for dance and makes it inclusive for everyone regardless of age or ability, so everyone can be a star. She goes beyond teaching to encourage us to explore dance through trips, workshops and performances.

“I cannot recommend her enough for this award as she has created a community of like -minded individuals who want to stay active and embrace new opportunities, and keep dancing as we age.”

The flourishing Dance with Sonia Brown is “a vibrant community of 270 dancers offering 19 weekly ballet, jazz, and tap classes in Earley, Reading, Tilehurst, Thatcham and Newbury,” said another nominator.

“With a deep love for inclusive dance, in 15 of her classes she provides low-impact alternatives. like Silver Swans Ballet for those 50-plus. This ensures that everyone feels cherished, regardless of age, health, or dance ability.

“Her vibrant humour and joyfulness make classes a delight, leaving us all uplifted and smiling.”

“I joined the ‘low impact tap dancing class’ on and off during lockdown, sometimes on Zoom,” said another nominator. “I’m now 80 years old. It keeps me fit, taxes my brain and gives me the joy of meeting many different people.”

Last year, Dance with Sonia Brown expanded to include evening classes – Rebel Ballet and Theatre Jazz – to reach a wider dance audience.

“Rebel Ballet is a rebellion against the traditional ballet dancer archetype! No age, gender or body shape criteria. No more seeking perfection: it doesn’t exist!” said the nominator.

“No more forcing the movement to fit the body. Sonia and her team make the movement fit the dance – with an upbeat, energetic general-level adult ballet class open to all levels of experience.”

Beyond the weekly classes, Sonia’s dedication shines, said another nominator. “She boosts our self-esteem through performance opportunities, like the joyous Christmas parade where Thatcham dancers dressed as Santas, spreading cheer throughout the town.”

Sonia’s theatre trips bring dancers together, fostering the love of dance and supporting those who find public transport daunting. “Post-class coffee or lunch gatherings offer a much-needed social lifeline, especially for those feeling isolated.”

In the words of fellow dancers, “Sonia Brown is truly exceptional.” “The confidence and happiness I’ve gained from her are life-changing.” “She should be prescribed on the NHS.” “She’s an inspiration, helping us live our best lives.”

 The dance school is also nominated for Putting Reading on the Map sponsored by The Purple Turtle and Jacobs the Jewellers.

“Sonia is also a passionate advocate for Reading, having grown up here and spent most of her life in the town,” said a nominator.

“She's making a name for herself nationally within the dance world, and her reach is ever-growing. From winning the national 'People’s Choice Award' at 'One Dance UK', to welcoming former Royal Ballet soloist Joshua Tuifua as a patron, Sonia continually champions our wonderful town on a national stage.

“Reading needs more Sonias!”