"Sit Dancing"

Sit Dancing enables people of all ages and (dis-)abilities to enjoy dancing while sitting down. The dances are based on traditional folk dances from around the world that have been adapted and transformed to suit those unable to walk. It was first introduced in New Zealand in 1988 and still remains popular today with groups that embraced it then.

Sit Dancing is a physical activity that stimulates social interaction, fitness, muscle toning, coordination, orientation, memory, fun, self-expression and emotional release. The use of music from many cultures and traditions give this programme an evocative and international character.

Marcel Baaijens (MSc, M.A.A.E.) is a professional dance tutor, choreographer, artist, videographer and art facilitator. He was born in The Netherlands in 1956 where he studied architecture and International Folk Dancing. He completed successfully an International Folk Dance Teacher Training course, The L.V.B-certificate, in 1984. Later he studied art therapy and art education in Chicago. He has worked with children, people with disabilities, older people, mental health consumers, ethnic communities, ballet schools, polytechnic schools and The New Zealand School of Dance. For further information about the programme please contact Marcel Baaijens.