Sign up for Sláinte Maith 2025 here: https://visualcarlow.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173661169

Project Description

Situated in the Link Gallery, the Sláinte Maith programme is is a dance class for participants aged 50+.

The aim of the class is simply to celebrate the joy of movement and provide a social outlet. The focus on maintaining a relaxed atmosphere is also important in fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Participants typically learn a short choreography each week to upbeat pop music. These classes are designed to be accessible – no experience is needed to take part.

After the class, tea and coffee is available in our bar area for participants to relax and bond further – an important element to further the social interaction. There is no additional cost to participants for this.

These classes are currently delivered by Marie Cashin, from Carlow town. Marie is well known for her dance expertise with both children and adults. Her diploma in dance training led her to open MC Dance Stage School 22 years ago. Marie has held many dance workshops with adults over the years in a wide variety of dance styles. Fun and laughter whilst moving is Marie’s motto, and she is always excited to bring her flair and energy to VISUAL for the Sláinte Maith dance classes.

 

Key Outcomes

 

The classes have been well attended each week (an average of 25 participants per week). The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. It is mentioned repeatedly that the classes are accessible and deliver on their promise of creating a relaxing and positive atmosphere.

 

Next Steps (What are the next steps for the Programme/Initiative/Event)

 

Going forward into 2025, we aim to keep engagement and attendance consistent with the Sláinte Maith programme. Keeping the focus on fun and accessibility is also important to maintain as we feel that this is what makes the programme successful.

We are also in the process of situating the classes into our Theatre instead of the Link Gallery. During a special class we staged as part of our Samhain Festival, participants learned and performed ‘The Monster Mash’ for each other on the Theatre stage. Feedback from participants mentioned that they liked the experience of being ‘on stage’ in a safe and informal context. It’s also been noted that participants preferred the feeling of the floor on the theatre stage than the floor of the Link Gallery; prioritising participants comfort is important to the success of this class and we feel that this small improvement is worthwhile.

 

 

Quotes from Participants

 

‘I came to the Sláinte Maith dance club because on the website the message that it would be relaxed and would suit beginners was appealing to me. I come back because it is fun’.

 

‘Creativity is for everyone. No matter what age or ability it should be encouraged and fostered’.

 

‘I’ve always loved music and dancing so Sláinte Maith was an ideal way for me to bring joyful exercise into my older life. This has proven to be so, as I find it gives enjoyment, mental and physical engagement plus socialising’.