Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between American style dancing and International style dancing?

American style dancing was developed by major U.S. Ballroom studios while international style dancing was developed by the British. In many parts of the world, only international style is used but in North America, both styles are used. In competitions, you can compete in both styles.

Some major differences include that American Rhythm is danced on bent legs while International Latin is danced on straight legs. American Smooth dancing has a lot more open and individual steps while International Standard is danced in a closed position most of the time.

What Lessons should I attend?

For dancers who attended ONLY Beginner 1 lessons in the previous year or have only one semester of Beginner 2, we recommend taking part in both the Social Level classes and the Bronze classes. If you feel comfortable, we recommend trying Silver lessons in the spring semester.
For dancers who have completed at least one semester of Beginner 2 in the previous year, we recommend taking Bronze lessons and trying Silver lessons for the fall. For dancers who have taken Intermediate lessons for at least one semester, we recommend taking the Silver lessons.
For dancers who have taken Intermediate lessons and have consistently gone to one semester of Advanced lessons or dancers who have taken Advanced lessons for more than one semester, we recommend going to Silver lessons and attending the tryouts for Gold lessons in the Fall.

Who teaches the lessons?

All lessons are professionally taught with the exception of the Bronze lessons and one hour of the Gold lessons, which are taught by our advanced students.

Do I have to compete?

No one is required to compete but it is encouraged that you do so! It is a great experience and will really help you advance in your dancing. You will also be able to see other competitors, watch professional performances and get inspired to learn more ballroom!

What are DA's

DAs are Dance Assistants! One ballroom officer will be available to help out at every American lesson and Bronze International lessons. This officer will be the dance assistant to help you out when you need a review on a step that has already been covered, help the instructor demonstrate steps, come around and give tips and just be available to ask questions!

What are tryouts?

Tryouts demonstrate a dancer's ability and are one of the determining factors for placement into our more advanced classes. Any individual who is interested in advancing should talk to an officer to be put on the tryout list. A separate date for tryouts will be announced when everyone interested should come prepared to dance.

Do I have to bring a partner?

In all dances-a partner is not necessary but highly recommended. If you do not have a partner, we plan on having all individuals switch partners and will be looking at how the Individual dances overall (technique will be focused on rather than steps).

What do we look at Tryouts?

We look at tryouts like a dance competition. If the dancer is confident in dancing in the silver level, they may advance to our Gold lessons.

How long the Tryout results are valid?

Tryout results hold for the semester, but we encourage dancers to keep practicing and try out for the next semester!

How can I become a member of the dance club?

Membership costs are $25 per person with student id and $35 for the general public. Membership covers our weekly professionally taught Social I and II lessons on Wednesdays (7-9PM, Rangos) AND our Bronze student-taught lessons on Mondays (8:30-10PM, Rangos).

How much do I have to pay for the Silver international lessons?

How much do I have to pay for the Gold international lessons?