At Social Dance Company we understand that heading off to a dance lesson for the first time can be a bit scary, so here’s some information that will help you come prepared, be relaxed and actually enjoy the experience. First up, some myth busters.
- There is no such thing as two left feet! Not everyone learns at the same pace but in ten years we’ve never met a student we couldn’t teach. If you can walk, trust us you can dance.
- It will take months to be able to actually dance socially. Nope, the way we teach is designed to get you up on the dance floor and confidently dancing a couple of basic steps within 3 – 4 lessons.
- You have to throw your arms around like those people on Dancing with the Stars. Wrong! Social dancing is all about confidently and quietly being competent. We want people to look at you and go Wow they can really dance rather than score you out of ten.
Next, lets answer some of the most often asked questions by students thinking about taking lessons.
What makes up a private lesson?
A lesson is 45 minutes long with typically 40 mins dance time and 5 mins debrief with your instructor. Your lesson fee covers your lesson with a professional instructor, a group class every week and a social twice a month.
What do I wear?
We recommend smart casual but most importantly you need to be comfortable. No need for fancy shoes when you start. Ladies shoes should have a low to mid heel and preferably a strap or fastening to make sure your shoes stay on. Men can wear a dress shoe or boot, but we recommend you stay away from rubber soled footwear because they will stick to the floor and make it harder to move.
What happens when I get to the studio?
Try to arrive at least 10 minutes before your first lesson to make sure you are not rushed. Check in with Caitlin our front of house meeter and greeter and she’ll show you around. Before your complimentary lesson we’ll get you to fill out an information sheet where you can tell us about what you’d like to get out of dancing. Caitlin will introduce you to your instructor and away you go.
What happens on my complimentary lesson?
Your complimentary lesson starts with a chat with your instructor who’ll explain what to expect. It is also the instructor’s job to get to know you and find out what you would like from your dancing so they can design the best possible program to suit your skill level and goals. We usually start with a chat sitting down and then move onto the dance floor where we’ll introduce you to the basics of a couple of dances. We offer a friendly and hassle-free environment with no pressure to buy or strings attached just a chance for you to get to know what our studio can offer you.
What’s the group lesson included with my private lesson?
In addition to private lessons, our social dance students can attend weekly group lessons where you get to meet other students and practice the steps you learn in your private lessons and consolidate some of the basic concepts like leading and following. And don’t worry that you won’t know enough to attend a group lesson, there are group lessons for every level of student from beginners up, so you will be dancing with students who are at the same stage as you and remember, making mistakes is part of the learning process.
Can I just take a group lesson?
Afraid not! Everything is based around a private lesson, so you learn at your own pace. Group classes are simply an opportunity to practice with an instructor and students at your level.
What about Socials?
As a studio, we like to party! We hold social nights twice a month which are a great opportunity to meet other students, enjoy a drink or two, socialise and practice your dancing in a real club environment complete with professional sound system, lighting and glitter ball. Our instructors are there to dance with you and introduce you to fellow students. Throughout the year we also have special events like our Annual Halloween Party, Crystal Ball and family picnic day where we all head to a local park to enjoy a barbeque and games with silly prizes.
What if I’m interested in Competitions?
We are not a super competitive studio and generally don’t compete in State or National competitions. However, we have in studio events twice a year where you can perform a solo spotlight and dance in heats with students at the same level. These tend to be fun events rather than serious competition and a chance to see your progress and get feedback from your instructors and sometimes an external expert.
What dances can I Iearn?
Our syllabus is American Smooth and Latin which is perfectly suited for social dancing. Most students start with six core dances in two categories Ballroom and Latin. The Latin dances are Rumba, Swing and Cha Cha and the Ballroom dances are Waltz, Foxtrot and Tango. We also teach a range of specialty dances including Salsa, Samba, Viennese waltz, Hustle and more, although we must admit that hip hop isn’t our strength.
More questions? Contact Caitlin our Front of House Wonder Woman.
