Korean Senior Dance Team radiates youthful vibrancy
By Elle McLogan
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NEW YORK (WCBS) — In glittering costumes, a group of women aged 70 and up dance in styles from traditional to K-Pop. The members of the senior dance team at Korean Community Services practice in Flushing twice a week and perform at events citywide.
“They choose their own music. They also design and select their own fabrics,” said Helen Ahn, the managing director of aging services.
The dancers say they make each other better.
“I’m not staying home. I’m active,” Clara Kim said. “Whatever they’re doing, I’m doing, too.”
These days, they’re memorizing steps for upcoming Lunar New Year celebrations, rehearsing with styled hair and makeup.
“Especially when I have a ponytail, I feel very young, about 10 years younger,” Jeehyun Kim said.
Beyond the walls of their church basement rehearsal space, the dancers have experienced hardship, from the loss of a partner to a cancer diagnosis.
“It’s more than just a dance performance,” Ahn said. “They heal each other.”
Moodon Ha’s child has noticed how radiant she looks since she joined the team.
“I’m so happy every day,” Ha said.
After practice, the women come together to enjoy meals and play games.
“We share our life,” Jeehyun Kim said.
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