I, along with many Canyon Ranch Tucson guests, had the thrill of dancing with a star last week. Louis Van Amstel may be best known as a 12-time dance champion, Emmy-nominated choreographer and consummate professional on the hit ABC show Dancing with the Stars, but last week he led his Louis’ Dance Blast cardio class to a packed gym of eager participants. The energy was incredible and the workout was amazing. Dozens of women doing ballroom-dance-type moves to heart-pounding non-stop music – Wow!
And Louis is as nice as he is talented. He graciously posed with every camera-toting guest who wanted a photo with him (including me!). He taught two classes each day for the three he was here – one advanced class to his students who accompanied him to the Ranch, and a more introductory class for those who hadn’t yet been exposed to his vigorous workout.
Louis believes that great dancers are made, not born, which contradicts most theories, including the classic cop-out from people who claim to have “two left feet.” Proof lies in the celebrity contestants on the show who are athletes, singers and actors with no dance experience or training who end up looking almost as professional as their partners by the end of the season. Similar to the Canyon Ranch philosophy which meets people where they are and helps them make enhancements in their lives.
Our hope is to have Louis not only return to Tucson but visit our other locations as well, so stay tuned to our website for an announcement of dates and locations. Until then, dancer wannabes can enjoy the always-popular Gotta Dance! in Tucson December 5 and in Lenox April 6.
Until next time,
Roxanne Housley
Vice President of Sales & Strategic Alliances