MASSabda Dancesport Series (Greater Massachusetts area)

[ballroomlady]

MASSabda/USA Dance Chapter 3002 announces an exciting initiative for newcomers to ballroom dance.

The MASSabda Dancesport Series is a 12 week program of classes, meeting once weeklyfor 90 minutes.

-Participants learn basics in 7 dances
-Classes conducted at a selection of Greater Boston area dance studios
-No partner necessary
-Open to all newcomers over the age of 18
-No cost for the classes
-Participants will be entered to compete in a special category on the Thursday evening at the US Eastern Dancesport Championships in Feb, 2009
-There is a cost of $95 for participation at the Eastern, includes admission ticket

Info and Brochure on MASSabda website http://www.massabda.org

MASSabda and the Dancesport Series Sponsors believe this is an easy entry platform for newcomers who will be introduced to the dance community - social and competitive, within a group of peers.

Everyone benefits from growth of our community. Please share this information with your friends who have "always wanted to try ballroom dancing"

[Chris Stratton]

That sounds very much like the kind of program that has been missing.

The big challenge will probably be keeping things focused enough on the core skills needed for a beginner comp that the program can survive the inevitable inconsistent attendance, apparent variety of teachers, etc.

That means material/mini-routines that are simpler than what most everyone teaches in their social intro classes... because the focus has to get off of "what" and onto "how".

Hopefully this can work - and blaze a trail that other chapters will follow.

[ballroomlady]

That sounds very much like the kind of program that has been missing.

Exactly what we think, Chris. Many elements mirror the basic structure of collegiate programs that have successfully grown thier communities.
Key ingredients for continuted growth that you have astutely noted in many of your posts.