All classes begin with everyone doing an all-important warm-up to loosen the body ready for dancing. If you are a complete beginner and have never danced before don't be put off by this; join in and try and copy the teacher but don't worry too much if you can't get it!! You will be taken through the basic step when your class starts.
The classes help you to really dance salsa, covering not only steps and moves but improvisation, musicality, timing, expression, isolation, posture, styling, spins and partnering, enabling you to reach a higher level of dance ability.
Q. Do I need to book?
A. No you don't. There are beginner's classes every week, and classes at all other levels as well. You can just turn up on whatever night you want. An exception to this is our beginner's courses on Tuesdays, which need to be prebooked as we limit numbers on each course.
Q. Can I watch a class prior to joining in?
A. Yes you can. Just say that you want to watch a class when you arrive.
Q. How do I Start?
A. You can just turn up and join in! If you have any questions beforehand please feel free to call us or email us.
Q. What is the age range?
A. Any age can dance salsa! It is great exercise, good fun, and very sociable. Our dancers range from those in their teens to those in their 60s
Q. What should I wear?
A. Wear something you feel comfortable in! Some people like to dress up, ladies in skirts and dresses, and men in suits, whilst others prefer to dress casually. Jeans are fine. Pretty much anything goes but remember that in a busy club you will get quite hot!
Q. What shoes should I wear?
A. For beginners we suggest you wear smooth bottom shoes that you can walk a long way in! Most people who continue dancing prefer to get dance shoes. Ask us if you are not sure what to buy!
Q. Do I need to bring a partner?
A. No. In our classes we rotate partners so you do not need to bring a partner.
Q. I'm bringing someone, do I have to dance with other people?
A. Rotating partners is not solely for social reasons. It helps the learning process. It's necessary to properly learn how to lead and follow. Everyone has a different style, and changing partners will greatly enhance the speed at which you learn. That being said, you don't have to change partners.
Q. Can I bring a group of people?
A. Absolutely! If you're nervous about taking a class simply invite your friends and have a great night out.
Q. I've never danced before, will I stand out? Will I look foolish?
A. As someone once said "Don't worry. People don't watch beginners. People watch the good dancers!!!!"
Q. Which class should I be in?
A. If you are not sure what level you are you should ask a teacher. If you don't feel you are learning anything ask your teacher if you should move on. If you feel you are struggling when others in the class seem to be coping, consider moving down a level for a while. If your teacher suggests you move back a class don't be offended, they are there to help and have your best interests at heart.
Q. How long should I stay in each class?
A. Until you feel you have learnt enough or your teacher tells you to move on. The object is to make you a better dancer and this won't be achieved by moving to a more advanced class before you are ready.
Q. Anything else I need to know? What do I need to bring?
A. Just bring yourself, your friends, and the desire to learn and have fun. As salsa and bachata are close partner dances please prepare for classes by practicing good hygiene! Shower before coming to class, and wear deodorant and antiperspirant. Ladies - perfume, men - a touch of cologne. These little thoughtful touches go a long way. And always bring breath mints!!
Q. How do I become a member?
A. Simply fill in a membership form which you can pick up at the club or download from the website.
Q. What is the etiquette about asking people to dance?
A. Most salsa dancers will dance with most others. Everyone remembers what it was like to be a beginner, so don't be afraid to ask anyone. If they say no, it's usually for a good reason, and not worth pursuing. If you don't want to dance with someone it is best to just say, "no, thank you". Any elaboration is unnecessary.
Q. What is Ladies Styling?
A. Ladies Styling is about ladies emphasising the movements of the different parts of the body whilst dancing salsa (head, hands, arms, hips, shoulders etc) to visually express the music. Colleen holds a workshop every third Monday of the month at 7.30pm. So the men don't miss out Neill holds a Mens Spins and Turns workshop at the same time.
If you are an absolute beginner though its best to wait a while until you've mastered the basic footwork and steps before working on your styling.
Q. What is Bachata?
A. Bachata is a form of music and dance that originated in the Dominican Republic. It is becoming increasingly popular and is often played in salsa clubs. Lina & Rob hold a workshop twice a month, on first Mondays and third Thursdays at 7.30pm.