May 16, 2010

You’ve spent the time and money investing in your very first ballroom dance lesson. You’ve become comfortable with your instructor and classmates. You laugh and have a good time – who cares if you make a mistake – you’re all in it together and no one else is watching.

But, then, the time comes when the instructor says “I think its time for you to attend your first dance”. OMG what do you do then? Sometimes I think it’s harder to convince new dancers to attend a dance then it is to convince them to take their first lesson. Yes, it’s scary to walk into a big dance hall or gymnasium and not know anyone. You don’t know what to expect. You can’t even imagine getting up and dancing around other people. But, it’s like learning to ride a bike – it’s a childhood ritual and milestone. Consider this your next dancing milestone.

WHERE DO YOU START? Attending a USA Dance event is probably one of the best ways to become introduced to social dancing. This national organization supports social dancing and most chapters encourage no smoking/no alcohol dances. A group lesson is often offered prior to the dance and it targets beginners to encourage new attendees. You will find all levels of dancers on the floor so don’t be intimidated, or think you are the only beginner dancer there. Yes, occasionally a dance venue will cater to more experienced dancers. If that’s the case – remember your line of dance etiquette. Move in towards the center of the floor for your traveling dances (i.e. the slower lane) and you should be just fine.

MUSIC: You can expect to hear a variety of music: Foxtrot, Swing, Waltz, Rumba, Tango, Samba and others. Often times there are “mixers”. A mixer is, you might say, an intermission. It’s an opportunity to get all dancers on the floor, including single dancers, and includes a rotation of partners so everyone has a chance to dance. Not all dance clubs offer mixers but many do. Some chapters may opt to throw in a line dance. A popular line dance in our area is the Samba line dance.

SNACKS: Social dances that I have attended locally, and in other out- of-town venues, usually don’t provide a lot of food so it’s a good idea to eat a meal before you go to the dance. Some chapters offer light snacks like chips and pretzels; some offer a “pot luck” of munchies and sweets where everyone brings something to share. Some dance clubs offer bottled water and sodas. At some locations the organizers will ask for a donation to help the club cover the beverage costs.

ATTIRE: Normally “dressy casual” is safe unless otherwise stipulated on a dance schedule. If you are unsure of what to wear you should contact a club representative to ask what they consider to be appropriate dance attire.

STAY CONNECTED: Don’t miss out on the opportunity to get involved with a dance chapter. It’s a great way for new dancers to quickly become acquainted with other dancers.  Ask to be added to their e-mail blasts or newsletters lists.

 Once you have attended your first dance you’ve overcome one of your biggest dance hurdles. Everyone had to start somewhere, right? The next one will be easier . . . and so on and so on.  So, step on the dance floor with confidence and “Experience the Joy of Dance!”

March 26, 2010

Whatever Should I Wear?

Another FAQ that I get asked a lot is “what should I wear to a dance class”?

Attire: Instructor responses may vary on this but first of all be comfortable. Slacks and a cool blouse or shirt is best. Some dance class venues are very cold; some are quite warm. If you are cold natured, bring a sweater the first night until you see how the temperature is. Sometimes we don’t know what the venue will be like till we get there. This is a social outing so if you are trying to impress someone I’d leave the frayed jeans at home. But, if its summertime and you are attending a dance workshop in a warm room with no AC, then shorts would be fine.

Shoes: When you are just starting out you want all the help and stability you can get. Wearing spiky open toed/heel shoes for a first lesson would not be my first choice. You haven’t discovered your “dance balance” yet and exceptionally high heels might make things worse. What I like to do with bridal couples is to get their choreography under their belt while wearing more practical shoes; then graduate to the wedding shoes for the last couple of lessons.

Chances are you will step on toes or be stepped on so if it were me I wouldn’t wear open toed shoes. No flip flips or shoes that you slide into (i.e. for ladies this includes clogs, mules, etc.). A secure shoe that can’t fall off your foot is best. You sure don’t want to risk injury on the first lesson. A rubber soled shoe, like a tennis shoe is not ideal as it may cause you to stick on the floor. A leather sole shoe is best and should “slide” allowing you to place your foot in a correct dance position on the dance floor. You don’t need to invest in “practice shoes” unless you know for sure you are going to continue with this new and exciting time on the dance floor. A street shoe will be fine for beginners.

Accessories: It’s good to bring a bottle of water with you to keep hydrated. If you are dancing an hour of high energy East Coast Swing you’ll probably need it. Bring a towel if you tend to perspire. Those who know me well know I don’t go anywhere without my sweat towel! I don’t glisten when I teach and dance, I down right sweat – so have one handy. If you do tend to get overheated while dancing, it’s good to bring an extra shirt and keep it in the car and change into if needed.

Social Dances: Locally most of the ballroom/social dance venues have a “dressy casual” dress code. This translates to no jeans. Ladies typically wear dresses, skirts, or slack and a dressy blouse. Men don’t need a tie or jacket but a nice button down shirt or seasonal sweater is nice. Be sure to inquire about the dress code of a dance event prior to arrival. It may be black tie or cocktail attire; so don’t be caught off guard by arriving in a sundress when everyone else is wearing formal attire.

Other questions? Feel free to contact Pam. And, sign up for my free dance newsletter for more helpful dance tips.

Visit http://sites.google.com/site/usadanceeasternshore/photo-gallery  and take a look at what some of the local dancers are wearing. While you’re there, check out the next dance date and join us on the dance floor!

February 19, 2010 Ballroom Made Simple offers these Three Frequently Asked Questions for New Dancers

1) I don’t know how to dance – where should I start? Every new dancer has to start somewhere – even the pro’s. Enrolling in a beginner group class is a good place to begin. Participants are all new and just as nervous as you are. And, believe me when I tell you that others are not watching you in class. They are too busy working on their own steps. Go to www.ballroommadesimple.com for a complete beginner class schedule and considering getting started sooner rather than later.

 2) I have two left feet – can you teach me to dance? It amazes me how much a person can adapt to dancing in just one hour. Muscle memory is a wonderful thing. And, once new dancers learn how to shift their weight properly, learning other styles of dance becomes so much easier. If you take the time to get started and learn the basics, dancing really is fun!

3) I’m Single & don’t have a partner – should I come to class? Ballroom Made Simple has always been dedicated to teaching single dancers the basics of ballroom and social dancing through group classes that target singles. Partners are not needed for these classes. Partners are generally recommended for other group classes, however singles are always welcome. The number of singles in a particular class may be limited by the instructor to ensure that they learn as much as possible. Group classes usually rotate partners a few times throughout the class, plus the instructor can always step in and serve as a “lead” to try and ensure adequate practice time for all class participants. If you are a single dancer talk to the instructor prior to class and find out what his or her recommendation is. Do you have a dance question for Pam? If so, e-mail ballroommadesimple@yahoo.com. If you area single dancer contact Pam and let her know when is the best day and time for you to attend a Single Dancer Workshop.