Youngsters may cringe every time parents take to the dance floor – so why not suggest that if they can’t beat them, they should join them?

Billy Elliot notwithstanding, few forms of dance have general appeal to today’s teenagers; but street dance is one exception. It’s the kind of dancing that Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake do in their videos and performances, and more properly describes any dance style that evolved outside of dance studios.

It often involves improvisation, and encourages contact with the audience and other dancers. But just like any form of dance it involves co-ordination, movement and rhythm, and the ability to keep count of the beats – not to mention dedication.

A workshop in street dance will teach you some basic moves and routines. Unlike ballroom dancing, however, you don’t keep to one partner; and unlike other forms such as tap or jazz, there are not too many rules that can’t be broken.

Street dance is ideal to do as a group, as you can choreograph routines that involve working together (though individuals can perfect their own moves – and practise new routines in front of music videos).

All that you need to get started is loose clothing and a bit of confidence. And for people who don’t like the mainly hip-hop music or who find the moves a little too exerting, they would do well to remember that dance is an ever evolving medium – Dad’s embarrassing dance today may be the start of tomorrow’s new craze, so you’d do well to encourage him.

See www.streetdanceuk.com for frequently asked questions about street dance and information about lessons in your local area.

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