A CARE home resident is reminiscing on her ‘excitement and joy’ after experiencing a professional dance lesson.

Erika Pillman, 99 lives at Colten Care’s Avon Reach home in Mudeford where she teamed up with a professional tutor to recreate a flamboyant Madonna classic.

The experience was arranged by the Companionship Team at Avon Reach on September 20 after they learned Erika, a former fashion model born in Germany in 1925, would love to go dancing again.

(Image: Deep South Media)

Mad4Dance Principal Julie Laming spent the afternoon teaching Erika the dance moves to 90s disco hit, Vogue.

Reflecting on the experience, Erika said: “The minute I saw the dance teacher I felt at ease.

“As we started, I was able to express myself and feel the freedom of dance. I wanted the teacher to see what I could do.

“It was amazing to dance in this way.

“Of course, it all went too fast but I now have some fantastic memories to cherish.”

Erika added: “I would always advise young people to have a go and just dance. I haven’t ever been a professional, I just love music and movement.”

Speaking on her dance partner, Julie said: “Erika was so much fun and a complete inspiration to teach and spend time with.

“Enabling her wish to have a private dance lesson using Vogue to come true was a complete honour and pleasure. What an amazing lady.

“Erika's strong spirit and appreciation of how dance is so good for the soul was a powerful reminder to all of us. Thank you, Erika.”

Team member Pauline Lawrence said: “Vogue by Madonna was perfect as Erika likes to do lots of poses.

"In the days leading up to the lesson, we discussed what dress she should wear.

“She was undecided at first but then chose one that was just right. She also enjoyed selecting her jewellery and making sure she would feel comfortable in her shoes.

“As we prepared, we all shared in Erika’s excitement that what was going to happen would make a wish come true for her.

“She was smiling so much.”