It takes a special sort of person to be able to
make their dream a reality. Maureen Jessop
introduces the one widely accredited for introducing
Line dance in France, Robert Wanstreet.
Bob’s, an authentic Country Western Saloon! Robert is organising the 15th anniversary
This was to play a big part in the development of Line dance and our first International
of the dance. It was here that we, as Robert’s festival at Disney this May. With many more
first pupils, took our first stumbling steps on plans and thousands following his inspired
the tiny dance floor. It was here that Robert steps, the lone dancer is not alone anymore.
was engaged to teach the bar staff to dance His dream and the dance go on.
as part of the show, where he later became
the DJ and where a couple of years later our More details on www.robert-wanstreet.com
new club Les Amis du Far West held the first (in French but the photos are good)
International Competitive Festival and set the
first ‘longest Line dance’ Guinness record
in France. It was here that more and more
people were introduced to the dance and thus
our image of the lone dancer takes shape.
Being an authentic American has greatly
helped Robert’s renown. That American
belief in oneself is still there beneath the
surface and has driven Robert from being a
simple social dancer to the teacher trainer
and Southern European director for NTA.
His musical training and eye for detail makes
him an excellent teacher and demonstration
choreographer. His sense of humour makes
him a good MC. With his charismatic
personality he is a natural leader. Generally,
what Robert says, goes. He has competed,
judged and was a UCWDC festival director.
Today, forging ahead
and following the
latest trends, he is
in great demand all
over France to teach
workshops and train
teachers. His weekly class
in Paris is principally based on
improving technique for advanced dancers.
He welcomes the immerging come back
of couples dance in France especially his
favourites, 2-step and West Coast Swing.
As he travels the country, he marvels at the
number of people who have become ‘hooked
on country’ Many are direct descendants
of those early Parisian days. Robert has also
influenced many younger teachers who see
him as a role model. I think he doesn’t really
realize just what his dream has brought to
people in their everyday lives, how dancing
has helped them overcome difficulties,
bad health, loneliness, or stress. So
many people have discovered hidden
talents in teaching, performing, leadership
and organisation. Many others
have made new friends, fallen
in love, had children,
travelled, competed
through the dance.
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