Growing up in the small town of Seymour, just east of Springfield, some of my most cherished childhood memories are from the annual Seymour Apple Festival. Among the vibrant sights and sounds, one of the earliest and most vivid memories is watching a group of clog dancers perform in the town square. I was absolutely mesmerized by their incredible speed and the rhythmic precision of their steps, creating the perfect clickity clackity sound that filled the air.
Years later, on a chilly winter evening, that memory resurfaced, leading me to lace up a pair of clog shoes myself and venture out to Pat’s Clogging Studios (711 W. Farm Rd. 84, Springfield, 417-833-4827, itap2.com), hoping to try my own hand (or rather, feet) at this clickity clackity dance. Located just off a farm road in north Springfield, the studio is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s easy to miss as there isn’t a prominent sign on the main road, requiring a keen eye to spot. After driving past it a couple of times and a quick, slightly panicked call to Pat Dennis, the co-owner of the studio with her husband Kevin, I finally found my way and parked around 7 p.m.
Peeking through the studio windows on my way to the entrance, I saw six adults inside, their faces flushed with exertion, dancing with infectious enthusiasm. The sound of their steps echoed, perfectly synchronized with the music’s beat. It was at that moment a wave of realization washed over me: as someone known for occasional clumsiness, including a memorable ankle sprain incurred while simply walking across a gym floor, learning Clogging Dance might be more of an adventure than I initially anticipated.
My introduction to clogging dance began with Pat Dennis patiently guiding me through the fundamental steps. I was introduced to the double step, rock step, triple step, and push step. With these basic moves somewhat (and I emphasize, somewhat) committed to memory, I nervously joined the other dancers as they began a new routine.
Dennis started the music, and I focused intently on keeping pace with the class, determined to avoid complete embarrassment or, worse, a fall. I managed to execute many of the basic steps, and there was a genuine sense of accomplishment in hearing my feet strike the floor in unison with everyone else. As the tempo increased, I occasionally found myself slightly out of sync, but Pat was consistently encouraging and helpful, gently guiding me back on track. The studio’s mirrored wall, a feature Pat explained is invaluable for learning, highlighted both the physical and mental demands of clogging dance. For nearly an hour, I danced alongside the class, engaging my feet and legs in a series of kicks, taps, and movements from side to side and front to back. I even discovered that clogging dance incorporates arm movements at times, adding another layer of coordination. Beyond the technical aspects, it quickly became apparent that clogging dance is a fantastic aerobic workout. By the end of the session, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself both sweaty and happily out of breath.
As the class neared its end, Pat and the other dancers introduced me to some lively old-timey clogging dance routines, which were an absolute blast. There are those moments when a smile just naturally spreads across your face – that was me, song after song, scuffing and shuffling my feet across the wooden floor, a grin widening with each click of my heels. Clogging dance proved to be more than just a workout; it was a genuinely joyful experience. I truly clogged my heart out, and I’m already looking forward to my next clickity clackity adventure.
The 411: Beginner Clogging Classes for All Ages
Where: Pat’s Clogging Studios, 711 W. Farm Rd. 84, Springfield, 417-833-4827, itap2.com
When: 6 p.m. on Tuesdays
Cost: $50 per month, or one class for $12.50
More info: Pat’s Clogging Studios offers clogging dance for all ages and skill levels and Irish dancing through Celtic Fire Irish Dance Company. Find more information at itap2.com
