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I HAVEN'T DANCED BEFORE
Don't panic - no previous dance experience required, this is where we come in!
DO I NEED TO BRING A PARTNER?
No, you don’t. Salsa is open to everybody and several people attend on their own so don't worry that it's just for "couples only"
We are always on hand by the door to meet people and to introduce them to others, so if attending on your own is a consideration for you then please don't let it put you off trying salsa!
Events follow a tried and proven formula with nerves disappearing within the first couple of minutes of joining a class. Although you don't need to bring a partner with you, it is a partner dance and to facilitate this we rotate students regularly during the class. Taxi dancers are also on hand and help out where necessary. If you prefer not to change partners that's fine, just let your teacher know and it can be accommodated. However, the main reason for rotating students (apart from being a fun and sociable "ice breaker" and a good way to get to know people) is to develop your ability as a dancer, enabling you to dance with anyone
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Ideally clothes should permit freedom of movement, be cool and comfortable to wear. The majority of people wear casual attire, dressing up a little more for the monthly party events
WHAT ABOUT SHOES?
Footwear is very important. If you own a pair of dance shoes you are up and running already, however, if you don't please read on ...
Ladies please forget the strappy stilettos, flip flops and kitten heeled mules - you are best served by shoes with a low/medium heel height which give support around the ankle and toes, especially whilst you are learning. Smooth leather, man made composite or suede soles are recommended
Gentlemen beware of trainers or footwear with grip as these provide traction when dancing and you will risk ankle/knee injuries. Again smooth leather or suede soles are best
Should you wish to continue with your dancing development then please ask Lindsey for further details on footwear as she can also supply dance shoes
DO I HAVE TO BOOK IN ADVANCE OR CAN I JUST TURN UP?
Weekly classes for Beginners and Improvers are on a "drop-in" pay as you go basis so there's no need to pre-book. There are no expensive joining or membership fees like the gym and there's a chance to practice your dancing after the lessons have finished. Simply come along and have a go!
WHAT HAPPENS IN CLASS?
At your initial class you will be asked to fill in a simple registration form so it's advisable to arrive about 15 minutes before the advertised start time which gives you chance to settle in, buy a drink from the bar and relax a little during the introduction and welcome before we start teaching
There is always a warm up routine for everyone, no matter what level you are at. The basic format for Absolute Beginners covers individual footwork, lead and follow technique, simple partner work and musical apreciation and timing
A slightly different format is taught at the next level which expands on what you have learned and incorporates some simple turn patterns and shines (solo footwork routines). The focus is on timing, technique and having fun
Again a higher level is taught for the Improvers classes which incorporate more complicated turn patterns, spins and shines. An understanding of rhythm and timing is taught from the outset, you will learn how to hear and count the different beats in a bar of salsa music so that you can clearly time your dance steps to the beat "on 1". You will not be able to proceed to the next level until you can demonstrate the relevant moves to a satisfactory level, this ensures consistency in learning and avoids any un-necessary hold ups in classes
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO LEARN?
People learn at different rates and progress depends not only on how quickly you pick things up, but also on how many classes you do each week and how often you practice in between classes. Everybody has their own learning rate and it's not a race
Your teacher will discuss your progress with you and advise which class is appropriate for your level of ability
DRINKS POLICY
Please do not bring your own drinks into any of our venues - each one has an inexpensive bar or vending facilities. The on-going use of venues is secured not only by the room hire rates, but also by the bar sales. Our venue owners do understand that those who are serious about their dancing do not over indulge in alcohol. However, please do try and support the bar - at the very least, you should be taking in water and/or fluids every half an hour when you are dancing to avoid de-hydration
Thank you very much for your continued support, co-operation & understanding
IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?
We teach people of all ages and have taught minors in studio based, school and college environments. Our current classes cater for people from age 18+
I'D LIKE TO BOOK SOME LESSONS FOR SOMEBODY ELSE - DO YOU DO GIFT VOUCHERS?
Yes, Salsa Gift Vouchers are available in 3 price ranges, please contact us for details of how to purchase these.
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