On Saturday 22nd June, the worlds of jazz-era glamour, dance, and mental health will collide in a fund-raiser for SANE Australia, the national charity dedicated to supporting Australians affected by mental illness.
Research shows that dancing – particularly partner dancing! – is an effective way of combating depression, dementia, and boosting mental wellbeing. Swingin’ The Blues Away is designed to not only entertain and raise cashola for SANE, but also get everyone, no matter how many left feet they have, dancing.
Swingin’ The Blues Away was created by keen swing dancer Gregory Craske, Craske has not only battled his own anxiety issues, but seen friends and family take their own lives due to mental illness.
“I noticed for myself just how much happier dancing made me. It’s social, it’s physical exercise, it’s learning a new skill, it’s fun. It ticks a lot of boxes. Then I discovered that the science backs me up; all the research done to date says that dancing is one of the best things you can do for your mental health.”
With that in mind, Swingin’ The Blues Away begins with a free dance class from Swing Patrol. Because swing is a social dance, you don’t need a partner – fly solo or come with a group of buddies. And do dress up! Bust out that Great Gatsby or Boardwalk Empire look you’ve been eyeing up.
The catered event also includes three of Melbourne’s premiere swing bands – The Pearly Shells with jazz singer Hetty Kate, The Swing Sisters, and STFO – plus demonstrations of fire, latin and swing dancing, burlesque acts and Simon Palomares.
Every year, mental illness affects one in five Australians. Every day, at least six Australians die from suicide, and a further 30 people will attempt to take their own life. All of us know someone who has died at their own hand. Swingin’ The Blues Away is addressing this situation head on – by raising money, but more importantly by sharing the gift of dancing.
“Swing dance is social by nature,” says Craske. “The feeling of community, participation, and social interaction is a key mental health benefit.”
Swingin’ The Blues Away
Where: The Thornbury Theatre Ballroom, 859 High Street, Thornbury
When: Saturday 22 June, 7pm to midnight (Complimentary dance lesson at 7:30pm)
Bookings: thornburytheatre.oztix.com.au or call Oztix on 1300 762 545
Prices: $45 + fees* for show only, $85 + fees* for dinner and show.
Entry is half price for people 12 to 18 years old, and under 12’s can enter free (excludes dinner charges, which are $40 per person). This is a licensed event, and persons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult! Photo ID is a requirement of entry.
