Slaying the Dance Dragon: How One Man Found Confidence and Connection Through Dance
- ReKindle Dance
- May 20
- 3 min read
For many, the dance floor is a place of joy and expression, but for Dan Logan, it was a source of anxiety and avoidance—until a pivotal moment changed everything: his daughter’s wedding.
Determined not to miss the father-daughter dance, Dan set out to face his lifelong fear of dancing. He signed up for beginner dance lessons—something he never thought he’d do; what he found was much more than a few steps—it was a new way to connect with others and with himself.
From Fear to First Dance: Dan's Journey Through Beginner Dance Lessons
Dan had spent most of his life believing he couldn’t dance, but when his daughter announced her engagement, he realized this moment was too important to sit out. That’s when he reached out for help, signed up for beginner dance lessons—and that’s when we met.
As co-founder of ReKindle Dance, I (Melissa) had the honor of guiding Dan through his first private dance lessons. In The Dance Dragon, the book he later wrote about his experience, Dan gave me a nickname I’ll never forget: “The Dragon Slayer.”
It’s a title I hold close because it reflects what we aim to do every day—help people overcome fear and discover how much joy, confidence, and connection can come from dancing!
How Dance Lessons Rekindle Relationships
What started as a few lessons for a father-daughter wedding dance evolved into something more meaningful. Dan didn’t just learn to dance—he found connection:
✨ With his daughter, during a once-in-a-lifetime moment
✨ With his partner, through shared laughter and trust
✨ With himself, by pushing through fear and stepping into confidence
Dan’s story reminds us that dance isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, a date night, or simply seeking more joy, dance creates space to move together—with meaning.
A glimpse of the moment that started it all—Dan dancing with his daughter on her wedding day.
In Dan’s Words
"I was very successful at avoiding dance most of my life. However, when my daughter told me she was getting married, I was trapped. I had a fear of dance. I finally decided to walk onto a dance floor and ask for some help. I was lucky to meet Melissa—and in time, she helped slay the dragon in my head and discover the joy of dance. Melissa has a gift as a dance instructor, especially when it comes to weddings. If there is a wedding in your future and you, a family member or friend needs help, give her a call." — Dan Logan, Author of The Dance Dragon
Why Private Dance Lessons Are Worth It—Even After the Wedding
Dan didn’t stop dancing after the wedding. He kept going, eventually performing in a showcase (dancing in front of a packed audience)—something he once believed was impossible.
But the biggest transformation wasn’t about performance. It was about this: he found joy in something he once feared. He felt confident. Connected. Capable.
That’s what we want for every student.
At ReKindle Dance, our private lessons are more than just dance—they’re about making moments. Whether it’s in your living room, backyard, or a local studio, we bring the music, movement, and magic to you.
Start Your Own Dance Journey Today
Whether you're preparing for your wedding, looking for a unique date night idea, or searching for a way to reconnect—with a loved one or with yourself—dance is a beautiful place to start.
We offer private, beginner dance lessons throughout the Boston area. No pressure. No partner required. Just real movement, real moments, and real connection.
📖 Inspired by Dan’s journey? Pick up a copy of The Dance Dragon and reach out to us to begin your own. Whether your dragon is fear, self-doubt, or just not knowing where to start—we’re here to help you slay it.
Written by Melissa Friebe, Co-Founder of ReKindle Dance (aka The Dragon Slayer)
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