AROUND 150 people from the Tavistock area have been taught to jive in the last year, thanks to the arrival of a popular regular dance class, held in the town hall. The 1950s-style rock and roll jive classes for beginners and improvers are hosted by Malcolm White and his wife Heather. Malcolm said: ?We are just coming to the end of the fourth course for beginners. On Wednesday November 21 we start a short four week course for improvers, and next February we are putting on another eight-week beginners? course.? The lessons have proved extremely popular, with Malcolm setting a maximum of 40 people per class. ?Any more than this would make it impossible to give individual attention when it is required,? he said. ?It?s great fun and it also helps keep you fit.? In addition to the jive courses, the town hall is also the venue for regular 1950s-style record hops and band nights. Malcolm said: ?We open up the hall from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Mondays for freestyle jive dancing to 50s rock and roll tracks ? this is open to everyone and costs just £2 each. ?Monday evenings are a great opportunity for everyone to get together. Everybody is welcome ? experienced dancers, those learning and those just wanting to see what it?s all about.? The next band night will be held on December 15, when London-based Crazy Jay and The Partytimers will appear at the town hall, supported by DJ Dave?s 55 Jive. Tickets are £7.50 and must be bought in advance. For more information about jive classes, band nights and other jive entertainment, call Tavistock Town Hall on 01822 617232.
