Rhythm of passion: Michael Cooper’s dance journey
An enthusiastic dance instructor shares his journey of love for Latin dancing
Just outside of Cambridge, Waikato, you will find a man with many hats. Michael Cooper is an auto workshop owner, and a dance enthusiast who just can’t stop moving to the Latin beats.
Michael’s passion for Latin rhythms began around 15 years ago, when he discovered the popular dance style of Zumba. His love for dance continues today through the Latin dancing scene in and outside of the Waikato region.
Micheal said, “Once I discovered Latin music, it’s the music I seem to hear all the time, if no one is watching or even if they are, I’ll just be there practicing my dance moves.”
“What I like about Latin dancing is the music, the feeling and the flow”
michael cooper
The ability to be able to tell a story through dance, is one of the many he loves about it. Cooper said, “It’s like a fairy tale, I’m a prince slaying the dragon and rescuing the damsel in distress.”
A typical week for Michael would include Bachata Tuesdays, Wednesday socials and maybe a Thursday salsa class, while Saturday brings a crowded, high energy, fun filled Zumba class. Cooper also attends the monthly dance parties, he dances on his work break, or while talking to customers, and has even built himself a dance studio at home. Michael’s wife calls him ‘happy feet’ because once he has a song or rhythm in his head, he just can’t stop dancing. Some may even say he’s obsessed with Latin dance.
If the week’s dance activities weren’t enough, Michael has built a dance studio in his enormous shed at home. Mentioned building the studio already earlier He enjoys inviting people over to practice dancing and sometimes holds parties or events there. “They get here, and we just have a fantastic night, everyone should have a dance studio,” said Michael.
Over the years, Michael has had the opportunity to travel and perform through Latin dancing, and it requires a lot of time, money, and dedication to organise costumes, venue hire for practices, and source accommodation around New Zealand. It takes commitment and a love for the art.
For Michael, following his passion for Latin dance is not arduous or demanding, it’s lively and exhilarating and always has him wondering when the next opportunity to dance will be.
You can find out more about Latin dancing in Hamilton here.
