ABIGAIL FOULKES danced her way to relaxation and put her best foot forward at the Churchill Theatre in Bromley.

When it was suggested I learn to dance burlesque in Bromley, my first question was where's the corset? Ready to throw a little more to the wind than I first anticipated as a trainee reporter, I felt excited to learn the moves that made the Pussy Cat Dolls rise to fame.

However, upon arriving at the Churchill, I was told I would instead be joining the slow motion dance class for over 60s.

Packing my heels and little black number back into my bag, I followed creative manager Jenny Batt into the dance studio.

Introducing me to the 14-strong group, Jenny explained the class was part of the theatre's creative development series, aimed at delivering confidence in older people.

She said: "For me, this class and our programme for older people is important because it can help develop confidence during a time of life that can be difficult - it's good for the ladies to have something to identify with.

"It is also a fantastically social and supportive environment to exercise your body, mind and creativity."

Feeling slightly more ridiculous than usual, I took my lead from 74-year-old Babs Whitley, trying to imitate her footwork whilst attempting to master the complex port de bras.

Jiving along to sixties music, we quickly developed a dance routine that would have put the Pussy Cat Dolls to shame.

Slo Motion is run by instructor and creative dancer Lucy Ellenthorpe.

Having taught it for six years, she said: "I love working with the ladies.

"They're so enthusiastic and open minded and they've overcome so many challenges to join this club.

"And it's great working with people who are committed to dance."

Not only was Slo Motion fun, the camaraderie shown by the ladies was enough reason alone to entice you to give it a go.

Babs Whitley, of Fenton Close, Chislehurst, joined the group two years ago to keep fit.

The grandmother-of-four said: "I have always loved dancing and this is a much nicer way to keep fit.

"The teacher is wonderful- it's a lovely atmosphere and the music is fantastic.

"I like learning the dance routines- it's good for the spirit and the body and keeps you subtle."

Pat Atkins, 67, of Elstree Hill, Bromley, started coming to Slo Motion three years ago when her husband was diagnosed with cancer.

The mother-of-two said: "I knew I would need a break, so I joined before he got too seriously ill.

"Coming here really helped me- the women are unbelievable.

"If you're feeling down, or you need a laugh, it just makes you feel great."

The Churchill puts on a range of classes for all ages in its creative learning department, including:
Early Years Drama
Baby Ballet
Naughty Toes Jazz Dance
Reception Drama
Youth Theatre
Burlesque Dance
Tap Dance

For more information, call Jenny Batt on 020 8464 7131 or go to ambassadortickets.com/bromley

Take a look at how Abigail got on

Video by videoteq.co.uk