Jean and Don Kerski - Photo/Tia Ann Chapman

Story by Tia Ann Chapman

November 8, 2008

Jean and Don Kerski go dancing nearly every night of the week at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio in New Britain.

It all started six years ago, when Don Kerski gave his wife, Jean, a few dancing lessons for Valentine's Day.

"He was thinking he'd drag himself through it," said Jean, but they both fell in love with ballroom dancing.

Now, while many empty-nesters are home wondering what's next, Don, 49, and Jean, 50, of Newington are perfecting their tango and entering competitive dancing contests.

The couple go dancing nearly every night of the week at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio in New Britain, and when they are not at the studio, they practice in their garage, which has been converted to a studio.

In recent years, this recreational activity has grown in popularity among young and old. Some attribute the increased interest to television's popular "Dancing with the Stars." The National DanceSport Championships in April drew nearly 500 competing couples.

"We figured, why wait until retirement? You never know how long you'll be around," said Don.

The cost of training and competitions "may make things a little tighter financially," said Jean, but the expense is worthwhile.

"It's great when you get out of work; it's a great stress relief," said Jean, a pharmacist. "It's a mental challenge; it's exercise. ... It's like an addiction."

Jean has lost 40 pounds since they started dancing six years ago. Don likes the social aspect of the classes. Their interest in dance also spread to their son, Andrew, who first went to a studio when he was 16. Now, 21, Andrew is one of the top ballroom dancers in the country.

The pursuit isn't always fun. "We have our aggravating nights, too," said Jean.

"I'm a slower learner than she is," said Don.

After finishing their most recent dance competition, Jean smiled at Don and said, "You actually did very well this time."

Don beamed and said, "You're talking to me. That is always incentive to do well."

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Source: The Hartford Courant Copyright © 2008