Time to Push for Recognition and Support for Wheelchair Dancing in America
by American Wheelchair Dancing expert, Sandra Fortuna

I am about ready to embark on an all out effort to increase visibility and participation in wheelchair dancing. What keeps a person who is disabled from learning any structured dancing? First there is that mental barrier tied into thinking that a physical disability prevents one from doing something very physical. Second, there is the emotional barrier created by the sense on the part of the person with a physical disability that no one wants to partner with them. Third, there is the social barrier that makes being in front of able-bodied people exposing one's physical being just plain uncomfortable. Fourth, where in the world can a person with a disability get started learning the structured social dances?

If an able-bodied person were to make a decision that the time has come to learn how to dance, he/she could simply dial up the local dance school and inquire about group and private lessons. Where is a person with a physical disability going to go? I would imagine that most dance schools are inaccessible, and most dance teachers, whether they are creative or not, will feel at a loss very quickly when they are trying to sort out what is appropriate material for a disabled person to dance.

The Wheel Ease videos and companion manual were carefully developed, tested, adjusted and improved over a course of years working with dance teachers, dance partners and wheelchair dancers. Every single word of it was written by a teacher who is known for her expertise at explaining movement structure and systems. The charts are detailed and sensible. The descriptions are clear and consistent.

There are several ways to learn wheelchair ballroom and Latin dancing-make it up as you go along, get one good move and do it to all dance rhythms, travel to an experienced teacher and learn, or, for professional dancers who understand how to read and work with a teaching manual, purchase the Wheel Ease set.

There are hundreds of people who have learned the Wheel Ease techniques, and thousands who have witnessed the authenticity of the rhythm, style and character of the Wheel Ease material.

The Wheel Ease set contains video of the dance figures in foxtrot, waltz, tango, cha cha, rumba, swing. All figures are designed for the gentleman to lead, while the lady follows.

All figures are interpretatons of regular, popular social dance figures adapted to suit wheelchair dancers and their able-bodied partners.

Orders can be made through the author, Sandra Fortuna at 856 869 0010.