Get ready to kick up your heels and dance the night away as Northern Honkytonk brings pop-up line dancing to the Algoma region.
Jessica Mason is introducing classes that promise to blend the joy of movement with the heart of country music.
Mason, who has been dancing since the age of three, sees dance as more than just a physical activity.
“Dance for me has always been where the world goes quiet and I can live through my heart,” she said.
This passion, combined with her love for country music, led to the creation of Northern Honkytonk.
The concept behind Northern Honkytonk is simple yet powerful.
“The reason was to make that feeling of freedom more available to both myself and everyone I meet along the way,” Mason said.
Classes will be offered on a first come, first-served basis throughout the month, with bookings managed through the Northern Honkytonk Facebook page.
Mason plans to share event details on her page and other community pages to reach a wider audience.
Each hour-long class is designed to be inclusive and welcoming to dancers of all skill levels.
“These classes really are welcoming for everyone. You don’t need any prior experience,” she said.
The sessions begin with stretching, followed by getting into the groove and then learning the steps of the chosen song for the day.
“I will break it down into each individual step and add on as the group becomes more comfortable and confident, until we’re all stomping along to the beat,” Mason said.
One of the unique aspects of line dancing that Mason appreciates is its adaptability.
“My favourite part about line dancing is that you can do a move in so many different ways,” she said.
“There are ways to do it simply for beginners and ways to make it more complex for experienced dancers. All while scooting along to the same song and staying within your comfort level.”
Looking ahead, Mason has ambitious plan for Northern Honkytonk.
“My long-term goal would be to open my own little happy place that people can come to on a regular basis, full of neon signs and friends and family,” she said.
The range of services Mason plans to offer is extensive, including private group sessions for special occasions like birthdays and bachelorette parties, school events, fundraisers, stag and does and wedding receptions.
At its core, Northern Honkytonk is about more than just dancing.
“My goal right now is just to bring people together, have fun and make some memories,” she said.
“To give everyone somewhere to let go and just enjoy the moment. To give people somewhere to laugh and somewhere to smile.”
Mason plans to hold her next class on March 22 at 10 a.m. at the Grand Gardens. More info will be posted soon on her Facebook page.