Wheelchair dancing was started in Malta in 1999. In other parts of the world it has been practiced for over 20 years. The Association was formed in Malta in 2001. The aims are to teach people in wheelchairs to dance in a similar format to non-disabled people. For competitive purposes there are two forms

1) Combi where one partner is in a wheelchair and one is non-disabled.

2) Duo where two are in wheelchairs.

Dances are:

Latin American - Cha Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive.

Standard - Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot and quickstep.

There are two categories of disability which are classified by trained classifiers.

There are different levels starting as a beginner and ending at championship level.

Apart from the above there are line dances and solo dances which can be used socially. In Malta I try to keep this in line with non-disabled line dances etc., so that integration is at a maximum

BENEFITS

For the wheelchair user the main benefits are that they can actually express the feeling of dance that is elusive and has nothing to do with the legs but is more within the person. Through the wheelchair and use of arms and other parts of the body movement is made in the same way as non-disabled. Like non-disabled dancers not all are good, but the most important part is participation especially on a social level.

Wheelchair dancing is a sport and art that integrates fully therefore the non-disabled person gets to know the wheelchair user as a person rather than as somebody with a disability. The misconception that some disabled persons are also with limited mental abilities is quickly dispelled thus educating many people. After all there is not one person born who does not have some sort of disability, e.g. shyness,

Wheelchair dancing also teaches the w/c dancer &/or helper, how to use their wheelchair better. Often by seeing other dances do more with their wheelchair it encourages them to become more independent and try new moves. Not unlike non-disabled dancers trying to copy their peers.

PIPPA ROBERTS

Started dancing at the age of three after having polio. Performed in shows and television programmes in England and abroad. Worked as a professional choreographer until moving to Malta on her marriage to a Maltese.

A qualified teacher in Ballet, Tap, Stage, Ballroom, Latin American and Wheelchair Dance

Whilst always interested in charity shows and helping disabled, wheelchair dancing allows her to use both her teaching and choreographic abilities in the medium she enjoys most. Also the satisfaction of seeing people of all ages and nationalities in wheelchairs mix and dance with non-disabled people socially as well as competitively is something that cannot be measured. The friends made through wheelchair dance have enhanced her life.