Kent Dance Program for Down’s Syndrome Participants Reaches One-Year Mark

A dance program in Kent, specifically for young adults with Down’s syndrome, has marked its first anniversary. The concept for this venture, situated in Langton Green, close to Tunbridge Wells, originated with Sarah Wheatley. Her aim was to enable her daughter, who lives with the genetic disorder, to engage in dance. Project Wave was established in 2023 by Ms Clark, with support from Michelle Clark, the founder of Happy Me Dance, and financial backing from the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing. Ms Clark stated that the primary objective of the class was to foster a “safe, secure and connected environment.” She further commented, “Now, we just have this dynamic energy which is just incredible.” Ms Clark also noted, “I try within class to give everyone the opportunity to be quite playful and have their own moments where they can improve as well.” The Down’s Syndrome Association reports that approximately 40,000 individuals in the UK are affected by this genetic disorder. Organisers indicated that the sessions conducted in Langton Green provide customised classes tailored for all age demographics, aiming to assist participants in re-establishing connections and discovering their their “rhythm of life” through movement. Rosa Monckton, whose daughter Domenica has the disorder, observed that the initiative has also facilitated connections among parents. She commented, “If parents can help other parents, it is a very good thing. It is lonely, and parents do not get the support they need.” Ms Monckton described Ms Clark’s creation as “absolutely exceptional” and expressed a desire to assist in its expansion, extending its reach beyond individuals with Down’s syndrome to include those with any form of disability or from disadvantaged backgrounds. Clara, a participant in the sessions, described the classes as “my life” and stated that they evoke feelings of “happy, safe and proud.” James Bowdidge, who chairs the Langton Green Village Society community hub, further remarked that the initiative has been a “huge success” and “wonderful to come and watch.”