Ourtown Homepage Cuttin' rug on the streets of Sacramento By Janice Kelley, Discover Magazine Ballroom dancing, salsa and swing are hot stuff. Movie nostalgia, the latest trendy television commercials and the return of the Big Band sound have contributed to a resurgence of ballroom dancing among youths as young as 12 and adults of all ages. Dance studios are flooded with couples and singles joining classes, hip-hopping and competing in dance events. Serious dancers arrive in costumes reminiscent of the 1940s and '50s, others come for fun or to learn a few new steps for an upcoming wedding. Dancing lessons for romance or exercise promise a swinging good time.
Individuals start by learning one or two dances and progress to more advanced steps or new dances.
Many studios offer a dance package that includes single and group lessons, in addition to weekly dance parties. The best introduction for a beginner is to learn through private lessons. Group lessons are designed as an overview and do not provide individualized instruction at one's own pace. Depending on your interest and your budget, you can dance several nights a week. For many dances, you can vary the speed from slow to fast, depending on your skill level.