Frequently Asked Questions - Adult Classes
Q: I've never been to a dance class before and am unsure if it's right for me.
A: All our Beginners Classes are taught on the assumption that everyone is an absolute beginner. We take things very slowly in the early stages of a new Beginners class to ensure that everyone has a thorough understanding of the basic principles. If you're not certain it's for you, there's no harm in coming along to give us a try - all our adult classes operate on a "pay as you go" basis with absolutely no commitment.
Q: I'm interested in attending one of your Beginners classes - do I need to enrol or can I just turn up?
A: We don't take pre-enrolments; all you need to do is simply turn up to the first class (we recommend arriving early, as we have maximum numbers to work to). All our adult classes operate on a "pay as you go" basis, with no up-front commitment or hidden extras. You just pay for each class as you turn up each week.
Q: Can I join one of your Beginners classes at any time or do I need to be at the first class?
A: As we like to maintain progression in our classes, we have a policy to allow new pupils (so long as there are spaces available) up to Week 3. If you've missed the first 3 weeks, we would be happy to add you to our mailing list so you receive early notification of future new classes.
Q: If I join a class do I need to pay in advance or by the term?
A: No. All our adult classes are pay weekly. We don't ask for any advance payments or membership fees.
Q: What is Ballroom & Latin Dancing?
A: The Ballroom dances we teach are Foxtrot, Waltz, Quickstep and Tango; the Latin dances are ChaChaCha, Rumba, Samba & Jive. We don't usually teach the Viennese Waltz or the Paso Doble in our classes, as these don't tend to be danced much at a social level. As the Jive is a very fast-paced dance, we usually teach Rock 'n' Roll initially and then introduce the Jive at Improver/Advanced level.
Q: What is Latin Line Dancing?
A: You will learn lots of different routines in all the Latin rhythms (ChaChaCha, Rumba, Samba, Jive, Paso Doble) plus the Latin Club rhythms (Salsa, Merengue, Mambo, Bossa Nova). Routines are danced in a line style (no partners) - similar to Country/American Line Dancing.
Q: What is Salsa Dancing?
A: A modern style of Latin club dancing, which takes it roots from Cuba. Salsa is danced with a partner (although you don't need to bring a partner to our classes) and encompasses turns, wraps and spins with the use of various arm shapes and holds.
Q: What is Rock 'n' Roll Dancing?
A: Known as "Ballroom Rock 'n' Roll", the basic steps and patterns are taken from the fast-paced Jive and converted into a slower, more social and relaxed dance style encompassing turns and spins. We use lots of the 1950's Rock 'n' Roll classic tunes, still played by DJs at most parties.
Q: I already have some dance experience - can I come to one of your Improvers or Advanced classes?
A: We welcome any level of dancer to our classes, but we recommend you contact us, giving as much detail as possible, so we can advise the most suitable class for you.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Clothing-wise it's anything goes! With regard to footwear, we recommend a slippy-soled supportive shoe. Shoes with a heavy grip (ie: trainers) should be avoided as they tend to stick to the floor. For ladies, we recommend a heeled shoe (unless you never wear heels), as it usually helps to have your weight more towards the balls of the feet. Slingbacks, strappy or flimsy sandals or mules should be avoided for safety reasons.
Q: I have a medical condition, and I'm not sure if a dance class is right for me.
A: Before starting any type of exercise, you should always check with your doctor. If your doctor is happy for you to take up dancing, then you are welcome to join a class, but please make us aware of any necessary information before you start.
Q: I am pregnant - is it okay for me to attend a dance class?
A: In most cases, dancing is a good way to keep exercising, but you should always check it out with your doctor or midwife before joining a class.
Q: I don't have a partner - can I turn up to a class without a partner?
A: You are welcome to come to a class alone, but we cannot guarantee you a permanent partner - it all depends on who turns up to the class! In some cases we get more ladies than men to a class, so it may be that we would partner-up two ladies.
Q: Do you have any social dances or events?
A: We hold five social evenings throughout the year (Valentines, Easter, Summer, Halloween & Christmas) which are very well supported by our pupils. As well as having the opportunity to dance all night, we usually organise some fundraising during the evening for various local and national charities.
Frequently Asked Questions - Childrens Classes
Q: My child is interested in attending one of your classes - do I need to enrol her/him?
A: Firstly, please contact us by email or 'phone to check if spaces are available. If/when a space is available, we offer a free trial class for all new children. If they enjoy the trial class and wish to continue, then we would ask you to complete a short registration form and would request payment for their classes for the remainder of the term.
Q: My child is coming for a trial class - what should he/she wear?
A: Clothing-wise it's anything goes! Some of the children like to dress up in their sparkly shoes and party dresses; and some are happy to come along in their school uniform. We do prefer the children to wear shoes (rather than dance barefoot) but, again, there is no need to go to any expense - either pumps or shoes are fine, but please avoid strappy sandals or flip-flops for safety reasons. For the classes for 9+years, we ask that the children wear shoes for the Ballroom & Latin class, and then change into pumps/trainers for Streetdance.
Q: Does my child need to bring anything?
A: Please ensure footwear is suitable (see above), and we recommend they bring a drink (although you can purchase drinks from the Club bar if necessary).
Q: What is Streetdance?
A: It is a type of freestyle dance consisting of movements, turns and arm shapes similar to dance moves seen on many popular music videos.