Getting Started

The hardest part about learning how to dance is the initial decision to get started. Many people are reluctant to take lessons because they think they have two left feet. This is a widespread misconception, anyone can learn to dance! All it takes is patience, practice and good instruction..

Important information to share

At Chance Dance Centre, we strive to help our students feel comfortable and confident on the dance floor by tailoring our instruction to fit the student’s dance level and interests. It is important to discuss your dance goals with your instructor so that he/she can help you design a program which best meets your needs. Please discuss the following while completing your registration with your instructor:

* If you are preparing for a special event

* The kind of music that is likely to be played

* The kind of music you enjoy dancing to

* The size of the dance floor

* If you will be changing partners frequently

* How many lessons to plan

 * The number of lessons you will need depends on many factors.

* your dancing experience

* the level of proficiency you would like to achieve

*the time available for practice

*your personal learning style.

  It takes the average beginning-level couple about three to five hours of focused instruction in one dance to feel at ease on a crowded dance floor. However, some students meet their dancing goals in an hour or two of private instruction

At Chance Dance Centre you are not required to sign up in advance for a package of lessons or a series of classes. You can purchase both classes and private lessons individually and add more instruction as you go.

What to wear

A frequent concern of new students is what to wear.

We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

 Medium to low-heeled shoes with smooth or leather soles are ideal. Sandals are not the best choice since they don’t protect your toes. Very high heels may look delightful, but can result in sore feet and shaky balance. Backless shoes, although very popular, can easily slip off your feet and therefore can disturb your rhythm. Thick, rubber- soled shoes are not a good idea since they tend to grip the floor and can put strain on your joints when you are turning. Don’t let your shoes spoil your fun! Bring some comfortable shoes to dance in; you can change them before you leave.

 Your feet will thank you, and your partner probably will too!

How to make fast progress

 A combination of group classes and private lessons combined with frequent practice sessions is the best way to build your knowledge and skill. One important habit to cultivate is to practice for a few minutes soon after your lesson. Students who take the time to practice make the fastest gains toward proficiency!

Next steps

See the schedule, book your classes,fill in registration form and make the payment, enjoy your dance.

Dance Etiquette

- Cell phones and any media players which could be distracting to dancers and instructors are to be turned off prior to commencing class

- Spectators are expected to remain courteous to dancers and teaching staff by refraining from talking to dancers during class time

- Talking in class is kept to a minimal so that focus can be directed exclusively to dancing

- Be aware of other dancers in the room so to avoid any collision

- Be patient, polite and sensitive to dancers who may not have as much dance experience as yourself

- Maintain proper hygiene. Some dances such as the Argentine Tango involve a lot of close contact and therefore cleanliness is very important for both health and enjoyment reasons. (Be sure to bathe prior to class, freshen breath, omit heavily perfumed products and bring a towel or handkerchief for those who perspire heavily while dancing).

- Please dress appropriately for your class (see dance attire section for clarification)

Dance Attire

*Proper footwear is important for any kind of dance. If you are unsure as to which kind of shoe is the best choice for your dance style and level please consult your instructor.

- Latin and Ballroom dance class dress code for Ladies:

Shoes: Medium to low-heeled shoes with smooth or leather soles are ideal. Sandals are not the best choice since they don’t protect your toes. Very high heels may look delightful, but can result in sore feet and shaky balance. Backless shoes, although very popular, can easily slip off your feet and therefore can disturb your rhythm. Thick, rubber- soled shoes are not a good idea since they tend to grip the floor and can put strain on your joints when you are turning. Don’t let your shoes spoil your fun! Bring some comfortable shoes to dance in; you can change them before you leave. Your feet will thank you, and your partner probably will too! Dress code: Dress, skirt or trousers with a blouse or appropriate top. Hair is to be tied back as it can interfere with dancing and large jewelery is to be removed.

- Latin and Ballroom dance class dress code for Gentlemen:

Shoes: Latin or ballroom dancing shoes or clean indoor dress shoes. Clothing: Dress shirt or appropriate top with trousers.

- Mom and Tots:

Both moms and tots are expected to come in comfortable clothing suitable for movement and clean indoor shoes. Yoga attire is best for mom as it is made of flexible material that breathes but also does not inhibit your range of motion. For the little one, comfortable clothing that they move freely in with a pair of indoor shoes are best. A yoga or pilates mat is suggested as a soft surface to lay back on for some of the exercises as they have a no slip surface. If you do not have a mat, please bring a blanket.

- Women’s Fitness:

Comfortable fitting clothing that breathes and is made with a spandex or stretch material is suggested. Yoga and exercise attire is preferable with a clean pair of indoor running or jazz sneaker style shoes.

- Conditioning:

Clothing for both ladies and gentlemen is the same as Latin and Ballroom. Soft sole ballet or jazz flats and soft leather shoes are recommended (either full or split sole- canvas, leather or gym slipper are fine) for appropriate footwear.

- Dance Therapy:

Comfortable clothing that allows full range of movement is essential to dance therapy. No shoes are required