FORMER Dancing with the Stars professional dancer Carmelo Pizzino is dusting of his cowhides and hitting the d-floor, teaching seniors how to ballroom dance as part of a free “Crown Life Series” in March.
Pizzino, who formed part of the show’s cast for 10 years, said he was looking forward to getting back to what he loved after a four year hiatus from teaching.
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READ NOW“Over the past four years I have built a great working relationship with Crown,” he said.
“They approached me earlier this month to be part of their “Crown Life Series” which are free events for seniors focussed on getting out them of the house, being active, being social and meeting other people in the community, learning a new skill but most of all having a great time.
“I absolutely love the concept of providing the senior community with free social events and being active.”
Pizzino, who started dancing from the age of five, said participants interested in taking the classes would have a fun time while learning to foxtrot, jive and cha cha.
He added as well as the mental benefits that came with the sport, there were so many physical benefits participants would gain by just having a go.
“There have been so many medical studies on exercise and benefits for seniors,” he said.
“I am 45 and have danced almost every day of my life and since I have stopped dancing, I have never experienced so many problems with my body.
“From hip issues to back and shoulders and my every day energy.
“I always read about how office jobs and being stationary has such a negative effect on your health and body, but I never believed until it happened to me.
“The classes will be fun full of energy, you don’t need a partner at all and it’s not about getting it right and perfect, it’s about being committed, giving it a go but most of all having a laugh.”
Pizzino, who walked away from the television show in 2015 and started Carmelo Entertainment, a production and show business, said it had been a crazy few years since moving back to Perth.
While he missed the television show, which recently relaunched, he was happy to be home.
“My passion is in entertainment and if I can make someone forget about any problems or stress they have and take them into the world of entertainment that is my job done,” he said.
“I have to admit that with Dancing with the Stars coming back I honestly missed teaching and 10 years on the show my best memories were when I was partnered with the senior celebrities.
“This is a great initiative for the senior community and if I can make a difference to even one person and make them smile, then how can I pass up an opportunity like that.
“For me that was the heart of Dancing with the Stars, it was all about giving your celebrity the experience that they will always remember.”
The classes are open to the general public and no bookings are required.
THE ESSENTIALS WHAT: Ballroom lessons with Carmelo Pizzino WHERE: Crown Perth’s Eve Nightclub. WHEN: Thursday, March 7 and 21 from 1pm – 2pm and Thursday, March 14 and 28 from 6.30pm – 7.30pm WEB: www.crownperth.com.au/general/crown-life/whats-on