Come curious: Konpa in Jax opens the dance floor to beginners

You do not need a dance partner lined up or a repertoire of moves to try Konpa in Jax. The October 24 class welcomes beginners, including people arriving on their own, for an afternoon centered on dance, music and Haitian culture.

D&D Dancing LLC will host the session from noon to 3 p.m. at Lift365 Fitness, 7001 Merrill Road. For Jacksonville neighbors who have been curious about Konpa but have not known where to begin, that invitation removes two familiar obstacles: finding someone to go with and feeling ready before ever taking a class.

D&D has been inviting Jacksonville to explore Konpa through classes advertised for July and September, including a September 19 session at the same gym. October brings another invitation to Merrill Road, giving newcomers a place to begin and returning dancers another reason to make time for the music.

Editor's note: Beginners and people attending without a partner are welcome.

There is value in that continuity. A dance class offers a way to encounter a cultural practice by participating—making time to listen, move and learn with other people. You can come interested without coming accomplished. For friends looking for something to do together, or someone willing to try a new activity alone, that is the appeal here.

Plan ahead for tickets: they must be purchased online before the class. At the October 14 check on Ticketstripe, the “Male Ticket” category was $22.55, the “Female ticket” category was sold out, and the two-person “Couple Ticket” was $35.68. A 30-cent charge applies to paid orders.

D&D Dancing can be reached at dandddancingllc@gmail.com. Comfortable gym clothing and shoes are requested.

The next step is straightforward: reserve an available ticket, set aside the afternoon and bring your curiosity to Merrill Road.

See Konpa In Jax Dance Class on Errbody.