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30 | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | JULY 2021 | Makua Hula The oldest Hawaiian Dance Group in Sun Lakes! Just a brief history of Makua Hula… About 25 years ago, Marion Brown was the first teacher. She used to be a professional Hawaiian dancer in Hawaii. Well, many of you know our resident Rosemary Collins. She was Marion's friend and coaxed Marion into forming a Hawaiian Dance Group in Sun Lakes. Rosemary was the person who named the group "Makua Hula." Makua means "senior lady" in Hawaiian. The group grew larger with much interest from other residents becoming members. After some years, Jackie Battaglia became Instructor. She also was a dancer and the group started to perform for private group parties and shows here in Sun Lakes. About six years ago when Jackie moved away, Perla Williams stepped up to lead the group and teaches authentic Hawaiian dancing. Perla has been a dancer since she was a child and an instructor of Hawaiian dance beginning as a teenager in the Philippines. She is a very talented dancer and choreographer. Perla is a very nurturing and patient instructor and is able to bring out the best in her ladies. With Perla in the lead, we have danced for the Follies, Christmas Show, That's Entertainment, several Sun Lakes Groups, private parties and outside venues, including The Lakes. Our group meets on Wednesdays from 10 am to 12:30 pm at the North Clubhouse and Saturdays 8 to 10 am in the Main Clubhouse Ballroom, stage side. If you would like to come, you certainly will be welcome. It's FREE! If you have a group or private party, give us a call. We dance here in Sun Lakes or outside the community. Contact Olga Marquette (951) 846-3579 or Penny Skog (951) 846- 3220 for more information. Tap Dance Jeann Svarvar's beginning class for "new students" is growing! If you would like to "join in on the fun" and learn to "tap" or maybe you tapped in the past and would like to get your feet to tapping again, contact Jeann Svarvar at (951) 990-2779 or svarvar@svarvar.net. Don't have tap shoes? Don't worry, Jeann will find a pair for you. Cost is only $30 per month and it is so worth it! Yeah! The Stardust Dancers are back to work three to four days a week. Many numbers are being perfected for future performances. We have been together for over 20 years. During that time many residents have participated in this group. Some have moved, some have passed, some have become ill, but many men and women are still enjoying all the different classes. Precision, Military, Broadway, Latin, Line dance, comedy routines, basic jazz, and modeling are offered. You choose what you wish to learn by picking your own classes. The group is currently preparing for several shows and performances. It is not mandatory to perform. You choose. If it is physically safe for you to participate and it sounds interesting to you, come join us. We have a wonderful time, and you will have an opportunity to broaden your horizons through this medium. Both males and females are welcome. Experience is not required. A desire to participate is. Text Evelyn Hawkins for more information at (951) 616-4542. Stardust Dancers Front Row: Penny Skog, Perla Williams, Olga Marquette, Joan Lau Back Row: Sharen Martin, Saveth Herness, Chelle Hyde, Kathy Reynolds, Martie Steggell, Sussy Arzubiaga Jeann Svarvar, Instructor, Mandy Cunningham, Aida Lugo and Sheron Watkins

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