The benefits of jiving, according to a master of the art

In the not so distant past, jiving was viewed as a dance for ‘the oldies’, but that’s no longer the case says dance teacher Declan Gavigan.

Declan says that the rise in popularity of country music is the main reason that more and more young people are learning how to dance.

“They are tired of going to country music events or weddings and not being able to dance,” Donegal native Declan says.

One of Ireland’s leading professional dance teachers, Declan says that while learning to dance is an intimidating prospect for many, it doesn’t have to be.

“I make jiving very easy by breaking it down into a series of basic moves and simple footwork at my GetUpAndJive classes. 

“In addition to having great fun, dancing is a great exercise and there is a real social aspect to jiving,” he says.

Declan also specialises in wedding dance tuition and first dances for brides, grooms and bridal parties. He also offers group dance lessons for hen parties and team building events for companies and organisations.

Declan is starting jiving lessons in the Greville Arms Hotel tomorrow evening, Wednesday February 6, at 7.30pm for beginners and at 8.45pm for improvers. The lessons will teach people how to jive and also introduce the line dance and quick step.

For more information visit GetUpAndJive on Facebook or contact Declan on 087 755 7163.

Declan Gavigan from GetUpAndJive with country music stars Nathan Carter (top) and Philomena Begley (above) – Declan’s classes are at the Greville Arms Hotel in Mullingar on Wednesday evenings: call Declan on 087 755 7163.