How to Get Started?

[KristinWW]

I apologize if this question has been posted in various ways and means - I have been dancing since I was 3 and I'm new to ballroom. I'm interested but not sure how to begin.

Do I sign up for lessons? I can't find any that don't require a partner. Since I'm "partner-challenged" how do I find one? Are certain areas of the country more prevalent for ballroom than others? Thanks!

[twodance]

Hi.
If you are interested in social dancing see if there is a USABDA chapter near you. This is an amatuer dancing organazation. At most places you don't need a partner. But finding a partner is great for practice. Most chapters have group classes available. If you go to a school for instruction check out their dancers first at a party. See if that is what you want to look like. Find out if they are registered with the National Dance Council of America and who they got certified with. In ballroom there are a lot of 'teachers' but few 'professionals'. Good luck and welcome to the dance world !! :D

[NeoDevin]

You can also check out colleges. Many have dance clubs that are open to non students as well (though they may cost more).

[Sagitta]

Welcome to the DF forums KristinWW. We are happy to have you join us!! :D

How to find a dance partner? dancepartners.com

Find lessons...? Often there are free survival lessons offered at the beginning of dances where no partner is required. You can always take privates as for that you don't need a partner. You can try local colleges, as Neo said...

I believe that your questions are answered in greater detail then I can answer them in our beginning dancers frequently asked questions thread in the general discussion forum. Click on the link below to go to it:

Beginning dancers frequently asked questions (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=869)

[pygmalion]

Unless you're prepared to make a substantal financial investment, be careful about calling your local studio advertised in the yellow pages. Try looking for a USABDA web site. Many of them have recommendations of local instructors, who often have less expensive group classes. Group classes are an economical way to get started and figure out if ballroom's for you.

Where in SC are you? (No need to answer publicly, you can always PM) If you like, I can help you look around. I can't make personal recommendations, since my parents live there but I don't. But I can help you look, if you like.