RollUpTheRug.com

"Waltz Week in Vienna" is the ultimate in elegant dance adventures -- a truly incredible travel, play, & workshop experience! 

The week is specifically designed for dancers who not only want to experience the elegance, beauty, and grandeur of waltz season in Vienna, but who would also love to do so in the company of a fun group of like-minded fellow travel-adventurers!

During Waltz Week, we use Vienna as our veritable playground -- exploring the city's beauty, enjoying unique dining opportunities, attending dance classes together, taking part in exchanges with other local dance schools, attending balls, and much more!    

On Saturday we culminate the week with an elegant grand ball at the beautiful Hofburg Imperial Palace, the crown jewel of Vienna's magnificent edifices where waltz balls have been a celebrated tradition since the days of Mozart and Strauss!  

SPECIAL for 2014:  If you have a second week to spare for additional travel & dance adventure, shift into "swing" mode and join Ari & Jodi Feb 24th - Mar 3rd as we explore the world of swing dance in Prague, then take on Europe's largest swing festival, "Rock That Swing", in Munich.  Not to be missed!

But first:

 Join us for an incredible  Waltz Week in Vienna! 

Details, pictures, & registration are at:

www.WaltzWeekInVienna.com 

  New Fall Classes (2015) 

FOUR TUESDAY's:  (Sept 1, 8, 22, 29.  No class on Sept 15)   All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Tuesday Classes are Beginning Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Blues for the Body & Soul'' -- An Introduction to Blues Dance!  In this very unique class, you will not only learn some fun basic blues steps and stylings, but more significantly, it will introduce you to the core concept of "effortless dance" -- dancing entirely through energy, where both partners can ultimately lead, follow, and listen concurrently.  These concepts will profoundly change the way you think about all of your dancing (not just blues).  Not to be missed!  Perfect for both beginning dancers or for more experienced dancers who want to work on fine-tuning their partnering, connection, and musicality skill, or who would like to try some role-reversal.  This class is also a perfect introduction to the kind of dancing you can experience every 2nd & 4th Friday at Om Culture.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No Partner Needed.  
• 7:30-8:30:  "From Swing to Fox, And Back Again" - An Introduction to Two Fabulous Dances"  - Transport yourself back to the wonderful big band era of the 1930's-1940's by learning the two most popular dances of that period - the upbeat Swing, and the more relaxed Foxtrot!  We'll start by reviewing the basic footwork & foundations to both, then quickly move on to some fun variations for each, as well as introduce how to effortlessly transition from one to the other within the same musical genre.    Perfect for beg/int level dancers.  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
• 8:30-9:30:   "Night Club 2-Step Foundations" - Learn the foundations of this beautiful, flowing, & elegant dance style, starting with the basics, then quickly moving on to the six essential turning steps, peak-a-boos, mix-masters, and even more fun combo's & variations from Ari's repertoire of fun, original moves. Perfect for beg/int level dancers or for more int/adv dancers who want to review the essentials.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches around the world. CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 9:30-9:55:  Guided Practice for class participants 

FOUR WEDNESDAY's:  (Sept 2, 9, 23, 30.  No class on Sept 16)  All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Wednesday Classes are Non-Novice Beg/Int Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Fantastic Cross-Step Waltz Creations (for Int/Adv Dancers)"  - Add such original steps as the "Barber's Combover", the "Seat Belt", the "Neck Strap", the "Double Dutch", the "Copa Catch", and the "Maypole" to your cross-step repertoire! Perfect for int/adv level waltzers. This will be a really fun session; I'm looking forward to it immensely!  It's also the perfect way to prepare for our Fabulous Friday dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 7:30-8:30:   Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Sensations:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 8:15-9:15:  "Swinging Outside The Box" - Setting Your Tootsies Free!    Learn the art of "poly-rhythmic improvisation" and the use of alternate 4, 6, and 8-count rhythms in swing with this fun East Coast Swing based approach to dance that addresses the use of tight partnering, framework, lead/follow connection, and energy to break in and out of 6-count rhythms.  Amazingly simple to do, yet so much fun!     Perfect for both beginning dancers or for experienced dancers who want to focus on partnering and connection while learning a whole lot more about dancing outside the box. I do play a lot of wonderful swing-fusion & swing-blues when I DJ, so it's the perfect way to prepare for our 2nd & 4th Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 9:30-9:55: Guided Practice for class participants

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday & Wednesday classes will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:15. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:

 TUES & WED:  Each Tues or Wed class series includes 4 hrs of instruction, and 1.5 hrs of guided practice following the third class.  Classes are designed to be taken in pairs (ie, take at least two together each night)

• One 4-week series (4 hrs of instruction!)  = $55 
• Two 4-week series (8 hrs of instruction!)  = $100  ($10 savings)
• Three 4-week series (12 hrs of instruction!)  = $150 ($15 savings)
• STUDENTS (under age 25):  $40 per class series  ($15 savings)
• Drop-In (with Instructor's Permission after the first class)  = $15 per class 

**PLEASE NOTE:  All students registered for the 'full series' will get a video review of the class material.  Drop-ins, however, will not be sent a video review.

TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page

Join us for a fabulous, All-Inclusive

"Swing, Rhythm,& Blues" Dance Weekend

 at the beautiful:

Villa Roma Resort & Spa (Catskills, NY)

Sept 18-20, 2015 (Fri-Sun)

CLICK HERE for details

  New Fall Classes (2015) 

FOUR TUESDAY's:  (Oct 6, 13, 20, 27)   All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Tuesday Classes are Beginning Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Blues Foundations 101'' -- An Introduction to Social Blues Dancing!  In this very unique class, you will not only learn some fun basic blues steps and stylings, but more significantly, it will introduce you to the core concept of "effortless dance" -- dancing entirely through energy, where both partners can ultimately lead, follow, and listen concurrently.  These concepts will profoundly change the way you think about all of your dancing (not just blues).  Not to be missed!  Perfect for both beginning dancers or for more experienced dancers who want to work on fine-tuning their partnering, connection, and musicality skill, or who would like to try some role-reversal.  This class is also a perfect introduction to the kind of dancing you can experience every 2nd & 4th Friday at Om Culture.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No Partner Needed.  
• 7:30-8:30:  "From Swing to Fox, And Back Again" - An Introduction to Two Fabulous Dances"  - Transport yourself back to the wonderful big band era of the 1930's-1940's by learning the two most popular dances of that period - the upbeat Swing, and the more relaxed Foxtrot!  We'll start by reviewing the basic footwork & foundations to both, then quickly move on to some fun variations for each, as well as introduce how to effortlessly transition from one to the other within the same musical genre.    Perfect for beg/int level dancers.  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
• 8:30-9:30:   "Night Club 2-Step Foundations" - Learn the foundations of this beautiful, flowing, & elegant dance style, starting with the basics, then quickly moving on to the six essential turning steps, peak-a-boos, mix-masters, and even more fun combo's & variations from Ari's repertoire of fun, original moves. Perfect for beg/int level dancers or for more int/adv dancers who want to review the essentials.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches around the world. CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 9:30-9:55:  Guided Practice for class participants 

FOUR WEDNESDAY's:  (Oct 7, 14, 21, 28)  All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Wednesday Classes are Non-Novice Beg/Int Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:  *NEW*  Int/Adv Waltz: "The Secrets of Cross-Step & Rotary Blending"  - "Cross Step Waltz" & "Rotary Waltz" are the two most common social-partnered waltz styles done in the Seattle community, each one danced to a different tempo.  In this class, we'll quickly review the basics for both waltzes, then learn how to blend these two styles for songs when the tempo's merge and offer you the opportunity to do one, the other, or both within the same song, all the while learning some wonderful new hybrid combinations!  It's the perfect way to push the envelope into new territory, as well as to prepare for our Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 7:30-8:30:   More Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Sensations:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 8:15-9:15: *NEW*  "Hot Blues for Cold Winter Nights!   Put the cool in your steps with these fun, higher-energy, walking blues variations.  Learn to dance to more up-tempo blues music, blending the art of effortless "energy-based" connection with floor movement and styling.  This class will also introduce elements of 1-step "Kizomba" blues, a very beautiful free-style, smooth and relaxed dance form that combine the best spects of tango, bachata, and blues.  Amazingly simple to do, yet so much fun!   Perfect for both beginning dancers or for experienced dancers who want to focus on partnering and connection while learning a whole lot more about dancing  blues outside the box.  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 9:30-9:55: Guided Practice for class participants

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday & Wednesday classes will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:15. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:

 TUES & WED:  Each Tues or Wed class series includes 4 hrs of instruction, and 1.5 hrs of guided practice following the third class.  Classes are designed to be taken in pairs (ie, take at least two together each night)

• One 4-week series (4 hrs of instruction!)  = $55 
• Two 4-week series (8 hrs of instruction!)  = $100  ($10 savings)
• Three 4-week series (12 hrs of instruction!)  = $150 ($15 savings)
• STUDENTS (under age 25):  $40 per class series  ($15 savings)
• Drop-In (with Instructor's Permission after the first class)  = $15 per class 

**PLEASE NOTE:  All students registered for the 'full series' will get a video review of the class material.  Drop-ins, however, will not be sent a video review.

TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page

  New Fall Classes (2015) 

FOUR TUESDAY's:  (Nov 3, 10, 17, 24)   All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Tuesday Classes are Beginning Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Intro to Blues"-- Fun Double-Pulse Variations!  In this very unique class, you will not only learn some fun basic blues steps and stylings, but more significantly, it will introduce you to the core concept of "effortless dance" -- dancing entirely through energy, where both partners can ultimately lead, follow, and listen concurrently.  These concepts will profoundly change the way you think about all of your dancing (not just blues).  Not to be missed!  Perfect for both beginning dancers or for more experienced dancers who want to work on fine-tuning their partnering, connection, and musicality skill, or who would like to try some role-reversal.  This class is also a perfect introduction to the kind of dancing you can experience every 2nd & 4th Friday at Om Culture.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No Partner Needed.  
• 7:30-8:30:  "East Coast Swing & Beyond!"  - Transport yourself back to the wonderful mid century era of the 1940's-1960's by learning the most popular dances of that period - the upbeat fun East Coast Swing.   We'll start by reviewing the basic footwork & foundations to the dance, then quickly move on to some fun variations, as well as introduce how to effortlessly transition from one move to another.    Perfect for beg/int level dancers.  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
• 8:30-9:30:   "Night Club 2-Step Foundations" - Learn the foundations of this beautiful, flowing, & elegant dance style, starting with the basics, then quickly moving on to the six essential turning steps, peak-a-boos, mix-masters, and even more fun combo's & variations from Ari's repertoire of fun, original moves. Perfect for beg/int level dancers or for more int/adv dancers who want to review the essentials.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches around the world. CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 9:30-9:55:  Guided Practice for class participants 

FOUR WEDNESDAY's:  (Nov 4, 11, 18, 25)  All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Wednesday Classes are Non-Novice Beg/Int Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:  *NEW*  Int/Adv Waltz: "Cross-Step Creativity"  - "Cross Step Waltz" is one of the most common social-partnered waltz styles done in the Seattle community. We'll quickly review the cross step basics, then learn some simple but beautifully flowing cross step waltz variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps that all focus on flow and ease.  Perfect for both beginning dancers, or for intermediate level dancers who want to add some graceful new moves to their repertoire. It's also the perfect way to prepare for our Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 7:30-8:30:   More Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Sensations:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 8:15-9:15: *NEW*  "Fabulous "Cha Cha" Variations, with a little Blues Blending!   Cha Cha is a fun, rhythmic, spicy dance that has found a home not only in the latin community, but also in country-western & swing dance, and even in the blues scene!  In this workshop, we'll quickly review the Cha Cha basics, then introduce a variety of classic and modern combinations that you can blend with blues pulses and which will get you out dancing with the best of them!   Perfect for both beginning dancers or for experienced dancers who want to focus on partnering and connection while learning a whole lot more about blending blues with cha cha!  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 9:30-9:55: Guided Practice for class participants

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday & Wednesday classes will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:15. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:

 TUES & WED:  Each Tues or Wed class series includes 4 hrs of instruction, and 1.5 hrs of guided practice following the third class.  Classes are designed to be taken in pairs (ie, take at least two together each night)

• One 4-week series (4 hrs of instruction!)  = $55 
• Two 4-week series (8 hrs of instruction!)  = $100  ($10 savings)
• Three 4-week series (12 hrs of instruction!)  = $150 ($15 savings)
• STUDENTS (under age 25):  $40 per class series  ($15 savings)
• Drop-In (with Instructor's Permission after the first class)  = $15 per class 

**PLEASE NOTE:  All students registered for the 'full series' will get a video review of the class material.  Drop-ins, however, will not be sent a video review.

TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page

 Four TUES's (Nov 3-24) [Beg Level]

• 6:30-7:30:  Intro to Blues: Fun Double-Pulse Salsa Variations (Beg)
• 7:30-8:30:  East Coast Swing (Beg)
• 8:30-9:30:  Night Club 2-Step (Beg)

Four WED's (Nov 4-25) [Int/Adv Level]

• 6:30-7:30: Cross-Step Waltz Creativity  (Int/Adv)
• 7:30-8:30: Night Club 2-Step Innovations (Int/Adv)
• 8:30-9:30:  Fabulous "Cha Cha" Variations (Int/Adv)

CLICK HERE for DETAILS

  New Fall Classes (2015) 

FOUR TUESDAY's:  (Nov 3, 10, 17, 24)   All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Tuesday Classes are Beginning Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Intro to Blues"-- Fun Double-Pulse Salsa Variations!  In this very unique class, you will not only learn some fun basic blues steps and stylings, but more significantly, it will introduce you to the core concept of "effortless dance" -- dancing entirely through energy, where both partners can ultimately lead, follow, and listen concurrently.  These concepts will profoundly change the way you think about all of your dancing (not just blues).  Not to be missed!  Perfect for both beginning dancers or for more experienced dancers who want to work on fine-tuning their partnering, connection, and musicality skill, or who would like to try some role-reversal.  This class is also a perfect introduction to the kind of dancing you can experience every 2nd & 4th Friday at Om Culture.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No Partner Needed.  
• 7:30-8:30:  "East Coast Swing & Beyond!"  - Transport yourself back to the wonderful mid century era of the 1940's-1960's by learning the most popular dances of that period - the upbeat fun East Coast Swing.   We'll start by reviewing the basic footwork & foundations to the dance, then quickly move on to some fun variations, as well as introduce how to effortlessly transition from one move to another.    Perfect for beg/int level dancers.  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
• 8:30-9:30:   "Night Club 2-Step Foundations" - Learn the foundations of this beautiful, flowing, & elegant dance style, starting with the basics, then quickly moving on to the six essential turning steps, peak-a-boos, mix-masters, and even more fun combo's & variations from Ari's repertoire of fun, original moves. Perfect for beg/int level dancers or for more int/adv dancers who want to review the essentials.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches around the world. CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 9:30-9:55:  Guided Practice for class participants 

FOUR WEDNESDAY's:  (Nov 4, 11, 18, 25)  All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Wednesday Classes are Non-Novice Beg/Int Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:  *NEW*  Int/Adv Waltz: "Cross-Step Creativity"  - "Cross Step Waltz" is one of the most common social-partnered waltz styles done in the Seattle community. We'll quickly review the cross step basics, then learn some simple but beautifully flowing cross step waltz variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps that all focus on flow and ease.  Perfect for both beginning dancers, or for intermediate level dancers who want to add some graceful new moves to their repertoire. It's also the perfect way to prepare for our Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 7:30-8:30:   More Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Sensations:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 8:15-9:15: *NEW*  "Fabulous "Cha Cha" Variations, with a little Blues Blending!   Cha Cha is a fun, rhythmic, spicy dance that has found a home not only in the latin community, but also in country-western & swing dance, and even in the blues scene!  In this workshop, we'll quickly review the Cha Cha basics, then introduce a variety of classic and modern combinations that you can blend with blues pulses and which will get you out dancing with the best of them!   Perfect for both beginning dancers or for experienced dancers who want to focus on partnering and connection while learning a whole lot more about blending blues with cha cha!  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 9:30-9:55: Guided Practice for class participants

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday & Wednesday classes will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:15. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:

 TUES & WED:  Each Tues or Wed class series includes 4 hrs of instruction, and 1.5 hrs of guided practice following the third class.  Classes are designed to be taken in pairs (ie, take at least two together each night)

• One 4-week series (4 hrs of instruction!)  = $55 
• Two 4-week series (8 hrs of instruction!)  = $100  ($10 savings)
• Three 4-week series (12 hrs of instruction!)  = $150 ($15 savings)
• STUDENTS (under age 25):  $40 per class series  ($15 savings)
• Drop-In (with Instructor's Permission after the first class)  = $15 per class 

**PLEASE NOTE:  All students registered for the 'full series' will get a video review of the class material.  Drop-ins, however, will not be sent a video review.

TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page

• 6:30-7:30: Night Club 2-Step  (Beg)
• 7:30-8:30:  Intro to Blues-Based  "West Coast Swing" (The Original)  (Beg)
• 8:30-9:30:  Intro to the "Texas 2-Step" & "Country Swing" (Beg)

Four WED's (Dec 2-23) [Int/Adv Level]

• 6:30-7:30: Waltzing in 4/4 Time - An Intro to "Waltz/Fox" Blending   (Int/Adv)
• 7:30-8:30: Night Club 2-Step Creativity (Int/Adv)
• 8:30-9:30:  WCS Made Fabulous - Cool Patterns for Int/Adv Social Dancers  (Int/Adv)

CLICK HERE for DETAILS

  New Winter Classes (2015) 

FOUR TUESDAY's:  (Dec 1, 8, 15, 22)   All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Tuesday Classes are Beginning Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Night Club 2-Step Foundations" - Learn the foundations of this beautiful, flowing, & elegant dance style, starting with the basics, then quickly moving on to the six essential turning steps, peak-a-boos, mix-masters, and even more fun combo's & variations from Ari's repertoire of fun, original moves. Perfect for beg/int level dancers or for more int/adv dancers who want to review the essentials.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches around the world. CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 7:30-8:30:  "An Intro to West Coast Swing - Blues!"  -  Early WCS was originally based on blues music, movement, and connection, and as such, was an incredible way to learn how to add effortless improvisation and styling to your partnership.  In this class, with a very unique approach to dance, you will not only learn the fundamentals of WCS, but more importantly, you'll come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of energy & flow in dance that can be applied to any style you do!  Not to be missed!  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 6:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
• 8:30-9:30:   "Intro to Country 2-Step (& Country Swing)" - Also known as the "Texas 2-Step", Country 2-Step in an enormously popular traveling dance done to fun, upbeat country songs that can also double as swing music when the floor gets crowded.  The fun part is knowing how to navigate between both styles in the same tune.  This class is the perfect introduction to Country 2-Step for social partner dancers, learning some fun, easy-to lead combinations that can be applied to both traveling and stationary movement. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 9:30-9:55:  Guided Practice for class participants 

FOUR WEDNESDAY's:  (Dec 2, 9, 16, 23)  All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Wednesday Classes are Non-Novice Beg/Int Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:  *NEW*  "Cross-Step Waltzing in 4/4 Time" (A New Concept in Waltz/Fox Blending)  - "Cross Step" waltz is not only one of the most common social-partnered waltz styles done in Seattle, but also one that is so diverse, it can even be applied to non-waltzing 4/4 tempos, such as slow foxtrots, 1-steps, or late night blues ballads.  In this class, after quickly reviewing our cross-step basics, we'll learn some beautiful new variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps, then dive straight into musicality, where you'll learn to transition between 3/4 and 4/4 timing in the same dance.  Perfect for intermediate level dancers who want to add some versatility to their dance, as well as some great new moves to their repertoire. It's also the perfect way to prepare for our Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 7:30-8:30:  Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Creativity:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 8:15-9:15: *NEW*  "West Coast Swing Made Easy!" - Cool Concepts & Patterns for Int/Adv Social Dancers:   West Coast Swing is one of the smoothest & sexiest forms of social dance on the scene today, one which has evolved tremendously over the past 30 years both in regard to the music it's danced to and the character of movement in the dance.  The way to learn this dance, however,  is not to start with styling (as is so frequently taught today), but rather, with a strong foundation in dance frame function, and in an understanding of how to create effortless energy and flow of movement, which Ari is a well-known master at teaching through fun 'non-dance' gaming and play.  If you haven't taken a WCS class from Ari, they have been acknowledged by many of his students as being "complete game-changers", not to mention an incredibly fun & easy entry into understanding the subtle nuances of this fabulous dance!  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 9:30-9:55: Guided Practice for class participants

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday & Wednesday classes will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:15. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:

 TUES & WED:  Each Tues or Wed class series includes 4 hrs of instruction, and 1.5 hrs of guided practice following the third class.  Classes are designed to be taken in pairs (ie, take at least two together each night)

• One 4-week series (4 hrs of instruction!)  = $55 
• Two 4-week series (8 hrs of instruction!)  = $100  ($10 savings)
• Three 4-week series (12 hrs of instruction!)  = $150 ($15 savings)
• STUDENTS (under age 25):  $40 per class series  ($15 savings)
• NEW "Roll Up The Rug" Students & Meet Up Members:  Save $25 on a 2 or 3 class bundle! (Be sure to mark the "New Student" Box on the registration page)
• Drop-In (with Instructor's Permission after the first class)  = $15 per class 

**PLEASE NOTE:  All students registered for the 'full series' will get a video review of the class material.  Drop-ins, however, will not be sent a video review.

TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page

  New JANUARY Classes (2016) 

FOUR TUESDAY's:  (Jan 5, 12, 19, 26)   All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Tuesday Classes are Beginning Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Beginning Night Club 2-Step" - Learn the foundations of this beautiful, flowing, & elegant dance style, starting with the basics, then quickly moving on to the six essential turning steps, peak-a-boos, mix-masters, and even more fun combo's & variations from Ari's repertoire of fun, original moves. Perfect for beg/int level dancers or for more int/adv dancers who want to review the essentials.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches around the world. CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 7:30-8:30:  "West Coast Swing Basics + Blues Foundations!"  -  Early WCS was originally based on blues music, movement, and connection, and as such, was an incredible way to learn how to add effortless improvisation and styling to your partnership.  In this class, you'll learn sugar pushes, left & right side passes, check turns, neck wraps, and a variety of other fun combinations foundational to WCS.  You'll also come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of 'blues-styling' energy & flow that can be applied to any dance you do!  This will be new material from the December class.  Ideal for all levels, and to take in conjunction with the 6:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
• 8:30-9:30:   "Intro to Country 2-Step:  New Moves for the New Year" - Also known as the "Texas 2-Step", Country 2-Step in an enormously popular traveling dance done to fun, upbeat country songs that can also double as swing music when the floor gets crowded.  The fun part is knowing how to navigate between both styles in the same tune.  This class is the perfect introduction to Country 2-Step for social partner dancers, learning some fun, easy-to lead combinations that can be applied to both traveling and stationary movement.  This will be new material from the December class (you do NOT have to have taken the December class to join) (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 9:30-9:55:  Guided Practice for class participants 

FOUR WEDNESDAY's:  (Jan 6, 13, 20, 27)  All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Wednesday Classes are Non-Novice Beg/Int Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:  *NEW*  "Beautiful & Flowing Cross-Step Waltz  -  "Cross Step Waltz" is one of the most common social-partnered waltz styles done in the Seattle community, and one of the fastest growing genres of waltz across the country. In this class, we'll quickly review the cross step basics, then learn some simple but beautifully flowing cross step waltz variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps that all focus on flow and ease.  Perfect for intermediate level dancers who want to add some versatility to their dance, as well as some great new moves to their repertoire. It's also the perfect way to prepare for our Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 7:30-8:30:  Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Creativity:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 8:15-9:15: *NEW*  "Cool NEW West Coast Swing Combo's!" -  West Coast Swing is one of the smoothest & sexiest forms of social dance on the scene today, one which has evolved tremendously over the past 30 years both in regard to the music it's danced to and the character of movement in the dance.  In this class we'll learn a variety of fun, new 6&8 count variations such as pinwheels, whip's, and turbines that  can also be applied to other dances, such as NC2S & Swing.  Ari is well-known as a master of fusing elements from various dance styles, as well as for his ability to teach complex moves in a very simple and understandable way using a physics-based methodology that de-emphasizes the need to memorize footwork and patterns.  If you haven't taken a WCS class from Ari, they have been acknowledged by many of his students as being "complete game-changers", not to mention an incredibly fun & easy entry into understanding the subtle nuances of this fabulous dance!  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 9:30-9:55: Guided Practice for class participants

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday & Wednesday classes will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:15. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:

 TUES & WED:  Each Tues or Wed class series includes 4 hrs of instruction, and 1.5 hrs of guided practice following the third class.  Classes are designed to be taken in pairs (ie, take at least two together each night)

• One 4-week series (4 hrs of instruction!)  = $55 
• Two 4-week series (8 hrs of instruction!)  = $100  ($10 savings)
• Three 4-week series (12 hrs of instruction!)  = $150 ($15 savings)
• STUDENTS (under age 25):  $40 per class series  ($15 savings)
• NEW "Roll Up The Rug" Students & Meet Up Members:  Save $25 on a 2 or 3 class bundle! (Be sure to mark the "New Student" Box on the registration page)
• Drop-In (with Instructor's Permission after the first class)  = $15 per class 

**PLEASE NOTE:  All students registered for the 'full series' will get a video review of the class material.  Drop-ins, however, will not be sent a video review.

TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page

  New FEBRUARY Classes (2016) 

FOUR TUESDAY's:  (Feb 9, 16, 23, March 1)   All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Tuesday Classes are Beginning Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Beginning Night Club 2-Step" - Learn the foundations of this beautiful, flowing, & elegant dance style, starting with the basics, then quickly moving on to the six essential turning steps, peak-a-boos, mix-masters, and even more fun combo's & variations from Ari's repertoire of fun, original moves. Perfect for beg/int level dancers or for more int/adv dancers who want to review the essentials.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches around the world. CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 7:30-8:30:  "West Coast Swing Basics + Blues Foundations!"  -  Early WCS was originally based on blues music, movement, and connection, and as such, was an incredible way to learn how to add effortless improvisation and styling to your partnership.  In this class, you'll learn sugar pushes, left & right side passes, check turns, neck wraps, and a variety of other fun combinations foundational to WCS.  You'll also come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of 'blues-styling' energy & flow that can be applied to any dance you do!  This will be new material from the December class.  Ideal for all levels, and to take in conjunction with the 6:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
• 8:30-9:30:   "Intro to Country 2-Step:  New Moves for the New Year" - Also known as the "Texas 2-Step", Country 2-Step in an enormously popular traveling dance done to fun, upbeat country songs that can also double as swing music when the floor gets crowded.  The fun part is knowing how to navigate between both styles in the same tune.  This class is the perfect introduction to Country 2-Step for social partner dancers, learning some fun, easy-to lead combinations that can be applied to both traveling and stationary movement.  This will be new material from the December class (you do NOT have to have taken the December class to join) (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 9:30-9:55:  Guided Practice for class participants 

FOUR WEDNESDAY's:  (Feb 10, 17, 24, March 2)  All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Wednesday Classes are Non-Novice Beg/Int Level

• 6:30-7:30pm:  *NEW*  "Country 2-Step" & "Cross-Step Waltz Blending"  -  "Cross Step Waltz" is one of the most common social-partnered waltz styles done in the Seattle community, and one of the fastest growing genres of waltz across the country. Country 2-step is on of the most popular and verisatile dances of the south and midwest.  As far as traveling dances go, it's amazing how many siliarities there are between the two.  In this class, we'll quickly pick up on the country 2-step basics, then learn some simple but beautifully flowing waltz variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps that can easily be applied to the country 2-step.  For anyone who knows a little waltz, you're already halfway there!.  Perfect for intermediate level dancers who want to add some versatility to their dance, as well as some great new moves to their repertoire. It's also the perfect way to prepare for our Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 7:30-8:30:  Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Creativity:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 8:15-9:15: *NEW*  "Cool NEW West Coast Swing Combo's!" -  West Coast Swing is one of the smoothest & sexiest forms of social dance on the scene today, one which has evolved tremendously over the past 30 years both in regard to the music it's danced to and the character of movement in the dance.  In this class we'll learn a variety of fun, new 6&8 count variations such as pinwheels, whip's, and turbines that  can also be applied to other dances, such as NC2S & Swing.  Ari is well-known as a master of fusing elements from various dance styles, as well as for his ability to teach complex moves in a very simple and understandable way using a physics-based methodology that de-emphasizes the need to memorize footwork and patterns.  If you haven't taken a WCS class from Ari, they have been acknowledged by many of his students as being "complete game-changers", not to mention an incredibly fun & easy entry into understanding the subtle nuances of this fabulous dance!  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 9:30-9:55: Guided Practice for class participants

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday & Wednesday classes will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:15. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:

 TUES & WED:  Each Tues or Wed class series includes 4 hrs of instruction, and 1.5 hrs of guided practice following the third class.  Classes are designed to be taken in pairs (ie, take at least two together each night)

• One 4-week series (4 hrs of instruction!)  = $55 
• Two 4-week series (8 hrs of instruction!)  = $100  ($10 savings)
• Three 4-week series (12 hrs of instruction!)  = $150 ($15 savings)
• STUDENTS (under age 25):  $40 per class series  ($15 savings)
• NEW "Roll Up The Rug" Students & Meet Up Members:  Save $25 on a 2 or 3 class bundle! (Be sure to mark the "New Student" Box on the registration page)
• Drop-In (with Instructor's Permission after the first class)  = $15 per class 

**PLEASE NOTE:  All students registered for the 'full series' will get a video review of the class material.  Drop-ins, however, will not be sent a video review.

TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page

   New MARCH Classes (2016) 

FOUR TUESDAY's:  (March 8, 15, 22, 29)   All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Tuesday Classes are 'All Level'

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Beginning Night Club 2-Step" - Learn the foundations of this beautiful, flowing, & elegant dance style, starting with the basics, then quickly moving on to the six essential turning steps, peak-a-boos, mix-masters, and even more fun combo's & variations from Ari's repertoire of fun, original moves. Perfect for beg/int level dancers or for more int/adv dancers who want to review the essentials.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches around the world. CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 7:30-8:30:  "West Coast Swing Basics + Blues Foundations!"  -  Early WCS was originally based on blues music, movement, and connection, and as such, was an incredible way to learn how to add effortless improvisation and styling to your partnership.  In this class, you'll learn sugar pushes, left & right side passes, check turns, neck wraps, and a variety of other fun combinations foundational to WCS.  You'll also come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of 'blues-styling' energy & flow that can be applied to any dance you do!  This will be new material from the February class.  Ideal for all levels, and to take in conjunction with the 6:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
• 8:30-9:30:   "Intro to Country 2-Step:  Fabulous Fun!" - Also known as the "Texas 2-Step", Country 2-Step in an enormously popular traveling dance done to fun, upbeat country songs that can also double as swing music when the floor gets crowded.  The fun part is knowing how to navigate between both styles in the same tune.  This class is the perfect introduction to Country 2-Step for social partner dancers, learning some fun, easy-to lead combinations that can be applied to both traveling and stationary movement.  This will be new material from the February class (you do NOT have to have taken the February class to join) (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 9:30-9:55:  Guided Practice for class participants 

FOUR WEDNESDAY's:  (March 9, 16, 23, 30)  All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Wednesday Classes are Non-Novice Beg/Int Level

• 7:30-8:30:   *NEW*   Fabulous Foxtrot, PLUS Introduction to "Laminu" [3 Weeks Foxtrot, +1 Week Laminu]  - Transport yourself back to the wonderful big band era of the 1930's-1940's by learning two wonderful dances of that period - the very popular and fabulous "Foxtrot", and the much less well-known "Laminu".  Laminu was a dance style popularized on the West Coast in the Balboa communities.  It offers you a fun way to dance to the very slow big band ballads of the period, with moves and stylings most closely related to Foxtrot, Balboa, & Cha Cha (believe it or not).  Today, the dance is celebrating a new resurgence in popularity, particularly in Europe where it is being re-introduced into small pocket-communities of swing, balboa, and Lindy dancers.  Ari is bringing the dance directly back from Vienna, where it was taught to rave reviews by Axel & Sandra during one of the Waltz Week swing dances.   CLICK HERE to see an example of Laminu

      In the first weeks of this class, we'll start by reviewing the basic footwork & foundations of Foxtrot as well as introduce some fun traveling and turning variations.  In the last week we'll focus on Laminu steps and musicality.  Fun!   Perfect for intermediate level dancers who want to add some versatility to their dance, as well as some great new moves to their repertoire. It's also the perfect way to prepare for our Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed

• 7:30-8:30:  Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Creativity:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 8:30-9:30: *NEW*  "Cool NEW West Coast Swing Combo's!" -  West Coast Swing is one of the smoothest & sexiest forms of social dance on the scene today, one which has evolved tremendously over the past 30 years both in regard to the music it's danced to and the character of movement in the dance.  In this class we'll learn a variety of fun, new 6&8 count variations such as pinwheels, whip's, and turbines that  can also be applied to other dances, such as NC2S & Swing.  Ari is well-known as a master of fusing elements from various dance styles, as well as for his ability to teach complex moves in a very simple and understandable way using a physics-based methodology that de-emphasizes the need to memorize footwork and patterns.  If you haven't taken a WCS class from Ari, they have been acknowledged by many of his students as being "complete game-changers", not to mention an incredibly fun & easy entry into understanding the subtle nuances of this fabulous dance!  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 9:30-9:55: Guided Practice for class participants

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday & Wednesday classes will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:15. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:

 TUES & WED:  Each Tues or Wed class series includes 4 hrs of instruction, and 1.5 hrs of guided practice following the third class.  Classes are designed to be taken in pairs (ie, take at least two together each night)

• One 4-week series (4 hrs of instruction!)  = $55 
• Two 4-week series (8 hrs of instruction!)  = $100  ($10 savings)
• Three 4-week series (12 hrs of instruction!)  = $150 ($15 savings)
• STUDENTS (under age 25):  $40 per class series  ($15 savings)
• NEW "Roll Up The Rug" Students & Meet Up Members:  Save $25 on a 2 or 3 class bundle! (Be sure to mark the "New Student" Box on the registration page)
• Drop-In (with Instructor's Permission after the first class)  = $15 per class 

**PLEASE NOTE:  All students registered for the 'full series' will get a video review of the class material.  Drop-ins, however, will not be sent a video review.

TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page

 SPECIAL SPRING PROMOTION:  

Take any 4, 6, or 8 class series with "Roll Up The Rug" between now and June (2016), and earn credits toward FREE PRIVATE LESSONS with Ari! 

Complete 4:  Get 1/2 off on a single 1 hr private lesson with Ari ($45 value)

Complete 6:  Get a FREE 1/2 hr private lesson with Ari ($50 value)

Complete 8:  Get a FREE 1 hour private lesson with Ari ($90 value)

Private lessons will take place at Ari's home/studio in the Eastlake neighborhood of Seattle, unless otherwise arranged.  Cannot be combined with other special offers.  There is no limit on number of private lessons earned.  Promotion ends June 15th, 2016, but you may redeem your private lesson through Dec 30, 2016

A student described a private lesson with Ari as: “An invaluable experience that will completely change the way you think about the language of dance -- making it understandable, effortless, playful, and fun!”.  It will be a game-changer for you!

   New MARCH Classes (2016) 

FOUR TUESDAY's:  (March 8, 15, 22, 29)   All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Tuesday Classes are 'All Level'

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Beginning Night Club 2-Step" - Learn the foundations of this beautiful, flowing, & elegant dance style, starting with the basics, then quickly moving on to the six essential turning steps, peak-a-boos, mix-masters, and even more fun combo's & variations from Ari's repertoire of fun, original moves. Perfect for beg/int level dancers or for more int/adv dancers who want to review the essentials.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches around the world. CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 7:30-8:30:  "West Coast Swing Basics + Blues Foundations!"  -  Early WCS was originally based on blues music, movement, and connection, and as such, was an incredible way to learn how to add effortless improvisation and styling to your partnership.  In this class, you'll learn sugar pushes, left & right side passes, check turns, neck wraps, and a variety of other fun combinations foundational to WCS.  You'll also come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of 'blues-styling' energy & flow that can be applied to any dance you do!  This will be new material from the February class.  Ideal for all levels, and to take in conjunction with the 6:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
• 8:30-9:30:   "Fabulous BLUES - Solo & Partnering Movement & Connection!" - If you missed any of this past weekend's ravely-reviewed Blues Workshops with Flouer Evelyn, or if you attended any of her classes and would like to review and develop the material further, this is the perfect opportunity to do so!   Blues is a dance style that provides lots of opportunities for self expression, and we'll be working to develop that with isolations, playful solo footwork, and body musicality.  We'll also review many of the partnering excersizes covered over the weekend, focusing on blues connection from a kinesthetic and creative point of view, then broadening our ideas of what we can use to create connection, and how to apply it to musicality.   (Level: All Levels)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 9:30-9:55:  Guided Practice for class participants 

FOUR WEDNESDAY's:  (March 9, 16, 23, 30)  All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Wednesday Classes are Non-Novice Beg/Int Level

• 7:30-8:30:   *NEW*   Fabulous Foxtrot Fusion, PLUS Introduction to "Laminu" [3 Weeks Foxtrot, +1 Week Laminu]  - Transport yourself back to the wonderful big band era of the 1930's-1940's by learning two wonderful dances of that period - the very popular and fabulous "Foxtrot", and the much less well-known "Laminu".  In this session, For three weeks, we'll be integrating foxtrot with moves from other dance styles to create new unique and playful fox "fusion" patterns. In the final week, we'll introduce Laminu. Laminu was a dance style popularized on the West Coast in the Balboa communities.  It offers you a fun way to dance to the very slow big band ballads of the period, with moves and stylings most closely related to Foxtrot, Balboa, & Cha Cha (believe it or not).  Today, the dance is celebrating a new resurgence in popularity, particularly in Europe where it is being re-introduced into small pocket-communities of swing, balboa, and Lindy dancers.  Ari is bringing the dance directly back from Vienna, where it was taught to rave reviews by Axel & Sandra during one of the Waltz Week swing dances.   CLICK HERE to see an example of Laminu

      In the first weeks of this class, we'll start by reviewing the basic footwork & foundations of Foxtrot as well as introduce some fun traveling and turning variations.  In the last week we'll focus on Laminu steps and musicality.  Fun!   Perfect for intermediate level dancers who want to add some versatility to their dance, as well as some great new moves to their repertoire. It's also the perfect way to prepare for our Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed

• 7:30-8:30:  Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Creativity:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 8:30-9:30: *NEW*  "Cool NEW West Coast Swing Combo's!" -  West Coast Swing is one of the smoothest & sexiest forms of social dance on the scene today, one which has evolved tremendously over the past 30 years both in regard to the music it's danced to and the character of movement in the dance.  In this class we'll learn a variety of fun, new 6&8 count variations such as pinwheels, whip's, and turbines that  can also be applied to other dances, such as NC2S & Swing.  Ari is well-known as a master of fusing elements from various dance styles, as well as for his ability to teach complex moves in a very simple and understandable way using a physics-based methodology that de-emphasizes the need to memorize footwork and patterns.  If you haven't taken a WCS class from Ari, they have been acknowledged by many of his students as being "complete game-changers", not to mention an incredibly fun & easy entry into understanding the subtle nuances of this fabulous dance!  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 9:30-9:55: Guided Practice for class participants

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday & Wednesday classes will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:15. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:

 TUES & WED:  Each Tues or Wed class series includes 4 hrs of instruction, and 1.5 hrs of guided practice following the third class.  Classes are designed to be taken in pairs (ie, take at least two together each night)

• One 4-week series (4 hrs of instruction!)  = $55 
• Two 4-week series (8 hrs of instruction!)  = $100  ($10 savings)
• Three 4-week series (12 hrs of instruction!)  = $150 ($15 savings)
• STUDENTS (under age 25):  $40 per class series  ($15 savings)
• NEW "Roll Up The Rug" Students & Meet Up Members:  Save $25 on a 2 or 3 class bundle! (Be sure to mark the "New Student" Box on the registration page)
• Drop-In (with Instructor's Permission after the first class)  = $15 per class 

**PLEASE NOTE:  All students registered for the 'full series' will get a video review of the class material.  Drop-ins, however, will not be sent a video review.

TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page

   New MARCH Classes (2016) 

FOUR TUESDAY's:  (March 8, 15, 22, 29)   All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Tuesday Classes are 'All Level'

• 6:30-7:30pm:   "Beginning Night Club 2-Step" - Learn the foundations of this beautiful, flowing, & elegant dance style, starting with the basics, then quickly moving on to the six essential turning steps, peak-a-boos, mix-masters, and even more fun combo's & variations from Ari's repertoire of fun, original moves. Perfect for beg/int level dancers or for more int/adv dancers who want to review the essentials.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches around the world. CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 7:30-8:30:  "West Coast Swing Basics + Blues Foundations!"  -  Early WCS was originally based on blues music, movement, and connection, and as such, was an incredible way to learn how to add effortless improvisation and styling to your partnership.  In this class, you'll learn sugar pushes, left & right side passes, check turns, neck wraps, and a variety of other fun combinations foundational to WCS.  You'll also come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of 'blues-styling' energy & flow that can be applied to any dance you do!  This will be new material from the February class.  Ideal for all levels, and to take in conjunction with the 6:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
• 8:30-9:30:   "Fabulous BLUES - Solo & Partnering Movement & Connection!" - 
• 
  

• “The Secrets to Effortless Frame, Connection, and Partnering” (A Very Special Group-Private Master-Class Series): In this class series, we dive in much more deeply to the aspects of dance that make for incredible, effortless, and flowing connection with your partner by exploring  how we use subtle energy, tension, and nuance in frame to communicate to one another on the dance floor.  The perfect class for all level of dancers (from beginners to advanced, but especially for folks with more advanced footwork skills)  This is a topic that will take whatever level of dance you’re at now, and increase your “wow” factor by many-fold.  Because the focus will be on connection rather than footwork, it’s a whole new approach to dance and partner awareness that will be a game changer for any dance style you do, and you’re partner will love you for it and notice the changes immediately. 

• If you missed any of this past weekend's ravely-reviewed Blues Workshops with Flouer Evelyn, or if you attended any of her classes and would like to review and develop the material further, this is the perfect opportunity to do so!   Blues is a dance style that provides lots of opportunities for self expression, and we'll be working to develop that with isolations, playful solo footwork, and body musicality.  We'll also review many of the partnering excersizes covered over the weekend, focusing on blues connection from a kinesthetic and creative point of view, then broadening our ideas of what we can use to create connection, and how to apply it to musicality.   (Level: All Levels)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 9:30-9:55:  Guided Practice for class participants 

FOUR WEDNESDAY's:  (March 9, 16, 23, 30)  All classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) All Wednesday Classes are Non-Novice Beg/Int Level

• 7:30-8:30:   *NEW*   Fabulous Foxtrot Fusion, PLUS Introduction to "Laminu" [3 Weeks Foxtrot, +1 Week Laminu]  - Transport yourself back to the wonderful big band era of the 1930's-1940's by learning two wonderful dances of that period - the very popular and fabulous "Foxtrot", and the much less well-known "Laminu".  In this session, For three weeks, we'll be integrating foxtrot with moves from other dance styles to create new unique and playful fox "fusion" patterns. In the final week, we'll introduce Laminu. Laminu was a dance style popularized on the West Coast in the Balboa communities.  It offers you a fun way to dance to the very slow big band ballads of the period, with moves and stylings most closely related to Foxtrot, Balboa, & Cha Cha (believe it or not).  Today, the dance is celebrating a new resurgence in popularity, particularly in Europe where it is being re-introduced into small pocket-communities of swing, balboa, and Lindy dancers.  Ari is bringing the dance directly back from Vienna, where it was taught to rave reviews by Axel & Sandra during one of the Waltz Week swing dances.   CLICK HERE to see an example of Laminu

      In the first weeks of this class, we'll start by reviewing the basic footwork & foundations of Foxtrot as well as introduce some fun traveling and turning variations.  In the last week we'll focus on Laminu steps and musicality.  Fun!   Perfect for intermediate level dancers who want to add some versatility to their dance, as well as some great new moves to their repertoire. It's also the perfect way to prepare for our Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed

• 7:30-8:30:  Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Creativity:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
• 8:30-9:30: *NEW*  "Cool NEW West Coast Swing Combo's!" -  “Take It To The Next Level:  Learning To Play With Musicality” - learn how to move to various rhythms & textures within the music; develop the art of polyrhythms; learn to connect to the energetics & lyrical quality of a song's phrasing;  anticipate and play with rhythm breaks.  Each week we tackle a different element of musicality & musical awareness, then learn how to adapt them to the various social dance styles you're already doing today. Because we will be applying these techniques to both WCS and NC2S, as well as to other dance styles like swing & blues, this is the perfect class to take in conjunction with the 7:30 & 8:30 Tuesday sessions. It will add a whole new dimension to your partnering and play, and a whole new level of awareness and appreciation  for the music you already listen and dance to now.   :)
• Ari is well-known as a master of fusing elements from various dance styles, as well as for his ability to teach complex moves in a very simple and understandable way using a physics-based methodology that de-emphasizes the need to memorize footwork and patterns.  If you haven't taken a WCS class from Ari, they have been acknowledged by many of his students as being "complete game-changers", not to mention an incredibly fun & easy entry into understanding the subtle nuances of this fabulous dance!  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
• 9:30-9:55: Guided Practice for class participants

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday & Wednesday classes will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:15. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:

 TUES & WED:  Each Tues or Wed class series includes 4 hrs of instruction, and 1.5 hrs of guided practice following the third class.  Classes are designed to be taken in pairs (ie, take at least two together each night)

• One 4-week series (4 hrs of instruction!)  = $55 
• Two 4-week series (8 hrs of instruction!)  = $100  ($10 savings)
• Three 4-week series (12 hrs of instruction!)  = $150 ($15 savings)
• STUDENTS (under age 25):  $40 per class series  ($15 savings)
• NEW "Roll Up The Rug" Students & Meet Up Members:  Save $25 on a 2 or 3 class bundle! (Be sure to mark the "New Student" Box on the registration page)
• Drop-In (with Instructor's Permission after the first class)  = $15 per class 

**PLEASE NOTE:  All students registered for the 'full series' will get a video review of the class material.  Drop-ins, however, will not be sent a video review.

TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page 

 Join us on

Tuesday, April 5th, 2016  (7-9pm)

for a very special 2-hr workshop & guided practice:

"From The Best of Vienna to the Best of Seattle!"
 Exploring 'Viennese Waltz', 'Laminu', & More!"

Freshly returned from teaching at "Waltz Week in Vienna", and in response to numerous requests from many of his students eager to learn the actual Viennese Waltz style being done in the great ballrooms of Austria today, in this workshop Ari first breaks down the essential steps, partnering, movement, and musicality elements of the beautifully flowing, rapidly turning Viennese waltz.  He will then show you the secrets to creating the kind of effortless rotation, flow, and floor craft that you'll find on the dance floors of the Hofburg Palace.  Finally, as an added bonus, Ari demonstrates how these kinds of waltz techniques can be applied to other fabulous dances popular in Vienna & around the world today, such as Swing, Foxtrot, & Laminu! 

 Perfect for all "non-novice" dancers (comfort with basic turning waltz steps & partnering concepts recommended). No partner needed. 

Join us on

Wednesday, April 6th, 2016  (7-9pm)

for a very special 2-hr workshop & guided practice on:

"The Art of Incorporating Blues & Fusion into any Partner Dance"

 Lessons from the Mission Fusion Dance Exchange

Bar none, I have always said that blues is the best way to learn and to deepen your appreciation of partnering & of musicality on the dance floor, and 'fusion' is the natural extension of applying those elements to more modern, lyrical music.  

In the first hour of this fabulous workshop, we'll introduce the concepts of blues & fusion-style connection, solo movement, and energy "fugue-ing" to your dance.  During the second hour, we'll continue to explore how blues & fusion musicality, free-styling, playful improvisation, and flexible connection can be applied to swing, to Latin, to ballroom, or to virtually any other social dance style you know!  This workshop will truly open all new kinds of possibilities for play & partnering on the dance floor!

Ari just taught a similar workshop to rave reviews at the Mission Fusion Extravaganza in San Francisco, and is excited to be able to share these wonderful concepts & techniques with all of our fabulous dancers in Seattle!  

 Perfect for all-levels of dancers.  No previous experience required. No partner needed.  

 DETAILS

TIME: (Same schedule applies to both the April 5th & April 6th sessions)

• 6:45pm:  Doors open - come early to register or pay as needed, stretch, warm up, etc
• 7:00-9:00pm:  Workshop is underway!
• 9:00-9:45pm:  Post-Workshop Dance & Guided Practica, with Ari

LOCATION:  

• Both Tuesday's & Wednesday's workshops will be held at China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  There is plenty of free parking available.  Doors to the dance hall open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well, and we have coupons for a 25% discount on your meal
  

COST (per workshop): 

• PRE-REGISTRATION SPECIAL:  only $20.00 for the first 20 leads & 20 follows who pre-register each night, 
• REGULAR PRICE, or AT-THE-DOOR:  $25.00  You can pay with a credit card or Paypal online, or with Cash or Check at the door.

TO PRE-REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.   

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or paid at the door by cash or check just before the first class. Payment by cash or check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page 

  Join us in PORT TOWNSEND April 28th, 2016 for two fabulous workshops on

A History of 'Solo & Partnered' Blues Musicality & Movement 

with Ari Levitt  

Thursday, April 28th, 2016: 

·  7:00-8:00pm:  Part I: "History of Blues”  - fun, informative!

·  8:15-9:15pm: “Part II: "Blues & Beyond” - the best!

·  9:15-10:00pm:  FREE Guided Practice

WHERE:

Quimper Grange, 1219 Corona St, Port Townsend, WA

COST:     

Pre-Register on line OR just show up at the door!

Suggested Price: $15/class, or $25 for both classes. 

Pay by Credit Card or PayPal online, or by cash or check at the door. 

There will be a Pay-What-You-Can option at the door!

DESCRIPTION:

A fabulous two-hour, 200-year journey through time with blues music & movement, that will greatly inform the way you appreciate and dance to modern blues, swing, ballroom, & fusion music today.  In each session, we'll talk about a specific period in the history of blues, the different kinds of blues music you would hear then, and give you some very concrete ways to identify, appreciate, and dance to that music.  In Workshop #1, we'll explore the early blues era from 'Delta' to 'Jouk' that will lay the foundation for Workshop II.  In workshop II, we'll dive into 'Ballroomin' & 'Rent' blues, as well as explore the frontiers of modern 'fusion' music that is the natural extension of blues today.  This is a phenomenal workshop for not only better understanding how dance movement is directly (and historically) related to the music you hear, but also how this kind of musicality can be applied to any form of dance that you do today.   

All levels welcome - No partner needed.  

You must take Workshop #1 to participate in Workshop #2

  CLICK HERE to see an example of "Ballrooming Blues" from the Roll Up the Rug Video page