Ballroom, Latin and Swing Line Dancing (often abbreviated as “Ballroom Line Dancing”) is a partner-free way to learn and enjoy dancing to musical rhythms of rumba, waltz, foxtrot, swing, salsa, and more.

 

First, some definitions.  A “line dance” is a pre-choreographed series of elements (such as box steps, toe struts, kicks, etc.), and at this level it is usually 32 counts of music.  Depending on how it is choreographed, the series of elements will be repeated throughout the dance and may turn right or left to 1, 2, or 4 walls.  A “genre” is a type of dance/music.  Some examples of genres are waltz, swing, foxtrot, salsa, rumba, tango, etc. 

 

During a typical two-month semester of Ballroom, Latin and Swing Line Dancing, the early weeks of the course will be dedicated to learning and dancing basic line dances so students can become familiar with elements while still enjoying the feel of dancing to the music.  As the semester progresses, the line dances will increase in complexity at a pace that is comfortable for the class.

 

The line dances are selected for this course based on how well they capture the mood and elements of each genre.  For example, a swing line dance will be upbeat with triple steps.  A waltz line dance will be slow, graceful and based on box steps and hesitation steps.  The music chosen for each line dance will have the characteristic rhythm and tempo and will be a combination of classic and contemporary tunes. 

 

This course has frequent “join dates” as it restarts every other month.  Because the line dances change each semester, dancers can continuously reenroll and always find fun, new material. 

 

While ballroom, Latin, and swing dancing is often done in heels and dressy clothing, this course is casual.  Please wear comfortable, casual clothing and shoes that are flat, comfortable, closed-toe, non-marking, and slide easily on the floor but provide sufficient traction to be safe when turning.

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General Prerequisite:  Good balance, good spatial orientation, ability to pivot without experiencing dizziness, ability to grasp new material with ease and to learn and memorize 32-count patterns from a combination of voice and visual cues.  Some dance experience helpful but not required.  For a complete description of the skills required for this course, click here.

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