‘Let’s Dance’ Brings Seniors To Their Feet

By Nancy K. Crevier

Rosemarie and Tony Rigoglioso of Brookfield cha-cha-cha-ed their way into first place at the HealthNet Senior Stars Showcase “Let’s Dance!” on Thursday, April 15, at the Newtown Senior Center on Riverside Road. The Rigogliosos wowed the crowd with fine moves and precise dance steps that come with years of dancing together. Accompanied by the live music of Bob Lupi on vocals and keyboard and Dr J on saxophone, the couple competed against Lynn’s Line Dancers and rock ‘n’ roll dancer Aggie Jensen.

It was Aggie Jensen, placing second in the competition, whose high-energy performance set the crowd on fire, bringing a number of the audience to their feet and onto the dance floor.

Also competing in the statewide senior center dance competition on April 15 was a trio known as the Lynn Line Dancers. Led by Lynn Flanders, Joyce Goldin, June Havoc, and Bea Piskura shimmied back and forth across the floor, dressed in aqua blue T-shirts and blue jeans.

Following competition, the audience voted, sending the Rigogliosos and Aggie Jensen on to compete at the Monroe Senior Center on May 10.

Senior Center Director Marilyn Place had high praise for the HealthNet program, one of many that she said is designed to bring senior centers across the state together and keep senior citizens active. “This is the first year for the dance competition, so we had a small turn out. But by next year, you watch,” said Ms Place, “the place will be packed.”