“The best things happen while you’re dancing…”

The words of Irving Berlin are often ringing through the halls of Thingamajig Theatre Company this holiday season. As rehearsal for White Christmas starts in full swing in just a few days the idea of dancing, especially with a partner, is on the brains of everyone in and around the theatre. Ryan Hazelbaker, resident choreographer, is no exception, and he has decided to bring that opportunity to the community of Pagosa.

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Monday, November 16 will mark the second installation of the new “Dance Night with Ryan” at Thingamajig Theatre Company. With a partner in tow, participants will learn the basics of partner dancing through the technique of the effervescent waltz. Hazelbaker, a passionate teacher and dancer, had the idea to bring this opportunity to Pagosa because of the unique community that resides here. Pagosa is special in that the folks don’t want to just consume art; they want to make it. What better way to tap into the art that resides in all of us than to learn to put movement to the rhythm within?

As part of a series that lasts throughout the winter, this Monday’s class is an opportunity to start a journey that you can continue with three more classes available to you. You may register for one class only, but the folks at Thingamajig are sure that one class will have you hooked. Hazelbaker is not only an excellent teacher, but an exuberant personality from whom you’ll want to continue to learn and Thingamajig is blessed to continue working with such a skilled instructor.

Thingamajig Theatre Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit professional theatre in residence at the Pagosa Springs Center for the Arts. They produce musicals, comedies, and dramas year-round. They also host theatre camps for children, put on free summer concerts, and a fall Playwrights Festival, as well as provide free tickets to local nonprofits for fundraisers. In its fifth season in Pagosa, Thingamajig Theatre Company has become a staple among tourists and locals, a lot of which has to do with their willingness to produce thoughtful and challenging theatre.

Do yourself a favor and take a chance this week. So many people tell the performers at Thingamajig that they “could never do what you do.” Take this opportunity to join the ranks of the artists you see onstage and learn a classic style of movement. You may even discover that “dancing soon becomes romancing,” giving you the courage to romance that special someone in your life.

Registration is currently open for all classes in the series. One time registration is $30 and the full series is available for only $100. Purchase your tickets online, or call 731-SHOW (970-731-7469) for more information.