This poignant and engaging memoir blends humor with a behind-the-scenes look at the world of the ballroom dance studio. Retired 60-something art teacher Thea Clark changes her life, not to mention her wardrobe, when she takes up competitive ballroom dancing. At home she cares for an aged mother and difficult teenage grandson, but once her feet touch the parquet floor of the studio she discovers a heady new freedom. Paired with her handsome young teacher, Michael, she begins winning ballroom competitions, but her newly found joy dissolves when she discovers Michael is dying of AIDS. Despite tragedy, a silver lining finally appears in the guise of a new dance partner, who takes her to higher levels of competition, applause and awards.