BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE search for something fun to do tonight (Sept. 11) is over, as the St. Kitts National Youth Parliament Association (SKNYPA) is hosting a Dance-a-Thon at the Lawn Tennis Club on Victoria Road.
For an entry fee of $10, persons young and old can groove from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. to the sweet sounds of calypso, soca, R&B, hip-hop and other musical genres. The event is part of SKNYPA’s Eighth Anniversary Week of Activities, and is affiliated with the Ministry of Health’s Caribbean Wellness Day celebrations.
Speaking to SKNVibes, SKNYPA President Azilla Clarke said the event is not about “people gyrating on some crowded dance floor”, but rather a place for persons to have “good, clean fun” in an atmosphere free of drugs and alcohol.
“There are people out there who love to dance and have a good time, but would prefer to do it in an environment that’s a little more tasteful. The Dance-a-Thon is perfect for them; no alcohol will be served because our group includes minors, and the music played won’t be violent or overtly sexual or anything like that,” she said.
Clarke was quick to add that the absence of those two elements shouldn’t deter persons from thinking they would have a good time.
“It’s going to be great regardless. There’ll be songs from various decades and music from practically every genre of music there is. Fresh local drinks will be on sale. There is nothing to stop persons from having an absolutely fantastic time.”
Doctors from the local Cuban Alumni Association will be on-hand to do free testing for blood sugar, blood pressure, and height and weight. According to Clarke, their presence will highlight the “important link” between health and physical activity.
“It’s important that persons, especially youth, be aware of the benefits of dance. People may think that exercising consists only of going to the gym, but dancing is a great way to keep fit.
“It’s not just about going to a club and booty-shaking. Doctors will tell you that if you dance often, it’s a good way to accumulate those minutes of physical activity that every person needs to stay healthy,” she noted.
The SKNYPA President urged the public to come out and help the Association celebrate its eight years of fulfilling youth mandates.
