New Waterford dance studio puts its best foot forward

Waterford - Young women arrive for this special occasion in elegant cocktail dresses.

They're joined by a middle-aged couple, husband and wife both sporting festive Hawaiian shirts.

And a couple in their 80s has also come to learn the tricks of the trade for the first time.

There is no common denominator to define the group that has shown up for the grand opening of Waterford Ballroom.

The new dance studio hosts a dance party every Saturday night. It's quickly evident that its owners and instructors aim to offer a dancing destination where everyone can have a good time.

"That doesn't sound like the stuff your grandpa danced to, does it?" co-director Brian Lawton said, as guests worked on a box step move on the dance floor. "This is going to be classy and professional, but mostly we want it to be fun."

Lawton and his business partner, Alex Sparkman, last year started thinking about opening a dance studio. They settled on a rental space at 86 Boston Post Road, tucked in behind a Jiffy Lube.

Lawton and Sparkman, both accomplished dancers, and other instructors offer a variety of dance lessons and packages.

Sparkman, 25, gave a glimpse of what the experience is like as he led more than 50 dancers in a tutorial on the ballroom floor. He separated the lead dancers from their partners and then showcased a couple of moves. After a few minutes he had couples working on what they learned.

"I'm not a big fan of pressure. We're here to create a comfortable social atmosphere," Sparkman said. "I have every faith this is going to work out."

Lawton, 52, also brings a background in dance to the new operation. He said his mother and father both taught dance and he has two brothers and a sister who are all involved in the business in some way. Lawton has also owned and operated studios elsewhere in the state.

Phyllis Pezzolesi, Lawton's dance partner in many competitions, has also taken on a role at the new business. She helps with the books and other aspects of the business and she was beaming during the grand opening as she reconnected with old friends.

"It keeps you active and healthy," Pezzolesi said of dancing. "You meet all kinds of people and it becomes another family."

Lawton said the widespread popularity of "Dancing With The Stars" will undoubtedly be a help in drawing new clients to Waterford Ballroom.

"It's a great social avenue," he said. "You learn how to adjust by dancing with other people."

jeff.johnson@theday.com