RollUpTheRug.com

Seattle Dance Workshops, Nov-Dec

with Ari & Whitney

 WHEN:  Tuesday, Nov 1st, 7-9pm 

WHAT:  SPECIAL WORKSHOP: "Advanced NC2S Framework -- For All Levels of Dancers"

Take your NC2S dance to a whole new level with this workshop that focuses entirely on lead/follow connection through rotation and energy transfer.  This kind of connection awareness will not only transform your NC2S dancing, but can easily be applied to many other forms of dance (waltz in particular because of the rotational component).  This workshop is equally pertinent to both leads & follows!    

WHERE:   China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA.  Plenty of free parking available.  Doors open at 6:45pm.  Come early to sign in, register, stretch, warm up, etc

COST:   $25   (credit card or PayPal online; cash or check at the door only)

 _________________________________________________

 WHEN:  Thursday, Nov 17th, 7-9pm 

  ______________________________________ 

WHEN:  Sunday, Nov 20th, 2:45-5:00pm

• 2:45-3:45pm:  "The Blues/WCS Connection" (all levels)
• 4:00-5:00pm:  "Intermediate Level NC2S" - fun combinations at play (Int/Adv)

  *********************

For more information about our Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday Winter class series , click here!

Seattle Dance Classes (Nov/Dec)

For full class descriptions, see the "Class Descriptions" page

FIVE MONDAYS's:  (Nov 21-Dec 19)  PLEASE NOTE:  The MONDAY NIGHT classes are held at our new KIRKLAND Studio (Details sent upon registration)

MONDAY THEME:  "Introduction to dance and dance connection!",  CLASS LEVEL:  Beginning 

• 7:00-8:00:  "Blues Foundations - Movement & Connection" - Learn the true art of partner dancing with this fun blues-based introduction to steps, styling, and lead/follow connection!  Perfect for both beginning dancers or experienced dancers who want to focus on connection.
 
• 8:00-9:00:  "Swing Dance, 101" - The perfect introduction to swing dancing!  Take the energy up a notch, now adding 6-count swing steps, turns, and traveling moves to the pot.  Great to take in conjunction with the 7pm "Art of Partnering" class. CLICK HERE to see an example of the kind of fun and play you can have with swing.
 
• 9:00-9:30  Guided practice and social.

FIVE TUESDAY's:  (Nov 22-Dec 20), plus free admission to our Tuesday Dances.  PLEASE NOTE:  The TUESDAY NIGHT classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) 

TUESDAY THEME:  "Let's invent!",    CLASS LEVEL:  Intermediate  (some basic dance experience required)

• 8:15-9:15:  "Night Club 2-Step: Fun Combinations II" - Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S.
 
• 9:15-10:00: Join us for our Tuesday Night Dance Practice at China Harbor (FREE)  See UPCOMING DANCES for details.

FIVE WEDNESDAY's:  (Nov 23-Dec 21)  PLEASE NOTE:  The WEDNESDAY NIGHT classes are held at our EASTLAKE Studio (Details sent upon registration)

WEDNESDAY THEME:  "Focus on Connection!",  CLASS LEVEL:  All Levels 

• 7:00-8:00:  "Blues - Advanced Framework For All Level of Dancers" - an essential class for mastering the art of quiet lead/follow connection and the ability for both partners to lead and listen concurrently -- the hallmark of great BLUES dancers!  Designed for dancers of all levels.
 
• 8:00-9:00:  "Swing - Advanced Framework For All Level of Dancers" -  an essential class for mastering the art of higher energy lead/follow connection and the ability to lead or respond to 'powered-up' movement -- the hallmark of great SWING dancers!  Great to take in conjunction with the 7pm "Advanced Framework - Blues Based" class. CLICK HERE to take a look at our youtube video of advanced-framework at play in swing
 
• 9:00-9:30  Guided practice and social.
   

LOCATION:  

• All Monday classes will be held a private studio/residence in Kirkland (near Totem Lake).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration.  Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.

• All Tuesday 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 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

• All Wednesday classes will be held at a private studio/residence in the Eastlake Neighborhood of Seattle (just off I-5, at the intersection of I-5 & 520).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration.  Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.

COST:
Each class session includes over 5 hrs of instruction, 2.5 hrs of guided practice, and admission to the Tuesday Night Dance at China Harbor! 

• One class = $65        
• Two classes = $120  ($10 savings)  
• Three classes = $175  ($20 savings)
• Four classes = $230  ($30 savings)

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! 

Seattle Dance Classes (April/May)

Presenting four new Tues/Wed series with Ari & Whitney

TUESDAY SERIES:  (April 26, May 3, 10, 17, 24), plus House Party on May 31st. 

TUESDAY THEME:  "Navigating the Crowded Dance Floor"    CLASS LEVEL:  Beg/Int (no previous dance experience needed)

• Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.
 
• 7:00-8:10: "Big Blues Moments for Small Back Spaces" - great ways to shine, style, and play on a crowded dance floor! (see 'class description' below)
 
• 8:15-9:30:  "Bal-Swing 101: Balboa Basics for Blues & Swing Dancers" - quiet, close-connection at a lively pace to up-tempo jazz classics.  (see 'class description' below)
 
• 9:35-10:00:  Guided practice and social.

WEDNESDAY SERIES:  (April 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25), plus House Party on May 31st.   

     WEDNESDAY THEME:  "Spicing it up for the summer!"      CLASS LEVEL:  Int/Adv  (some basic dance experience required)

• Doors open at 6:45.  Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc
 
• 7:00-8:10: "Tango'd up in Blues" -- taking your blues on a little sojourn south of the equator!  (see 'class description' below)
 
• 8:15-9:30:  "West Coast Swing for Hot Summer Nights" -- add a little splash of blues to your WCS.  Explore great new ways to stretch, glide and play!  (see 'class description' below)
 
• 9:35-10:00:  Guided practice and social

LOCATION:  All classes will be held at a private studio/residence in the Eastlake Neighborhood of Seattle (just off I-5, at the intersection of I-5 & 520).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration

COST:
     Each class session includes over 6 hrs of instruction, 2.5 hrs of guided practice, and house party

• One class = $65        
• Two classes = $120  ($10 savings)  
• Three classes = $175  ($20 savings)
• Four classes = $225  ($35 savings)

**PLUS:  register before April 15th, and receive a free "practice" music CD containing a wonderful collection of songs from each class to dance and to practice to!

 

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.

Class size is limited, so register early! 

TUESDAY SERIES:  (April 26, May 3, 10, 17, 24), plus House Party on May 31st. 

TUESDAY THEME:  "Navigating the Crowded Dance Floor"    CLASS LEVEL:  Beg/Int (no previous dance experience needed)

• Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.
 
• 7:00-8:10: "Big Blues Moments for Small Back Spaces" - great ways to shine, style, and play on a crowded dance floor! (see 'class description' below)
 
• 8:15-9:30:  "Bal-Swing 101: Balboa Basics for Blues & Swing Dancers" - quiet, close-connection at a lively pace to up-tempo jazz classics.  (see 'class description' below)
 
• 9:35-10:00:  Guided practice and social.

WEDNESDAY SERIES:  (April 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25), plus House Party on May 31st.   

     WEDNESDAY THEME:  "Spicing it up for the summer!"      CLASS LEVEL:  Int/Adv  (some basic dance experience required)

• Doors open at 6:45.  Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc
 
• 7:00-8:10: "Tango'd up in Blues" -- taking your blues on a little sojourn south of the equator!  (see 'class description' below)
 
• 8:15-9:30:  "West Coast Swing for Hot Summer Nights" -- add a little splash of blues to your WCS.  Explore great new ways to stretch, glide and play!  (see 'class description' below)
 
• 9:35-10:00:  Guided practice and social

LOCATION:  All classes will be held at a private studio/residence in the Eastlake Neighborhood of Seattle (just off I-5, at the intersection of I-5 & 520).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration

COST:
     Each class session includes over 6 hrs of instruction, 2.5 hrs of guided practice, and house party

• One class = $65        
• Two classes = $120  ($10 savings)  
• Three classes = $175  ($20 savings)
• Four classes = $225  ($35 savings)

**PLUS:  register before April 15th, and receive a free "practice" music CD containing a wonderful collection of songs from each class to dance and to practice to!

 

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.

Class size is limited, so register early!

----    ----    ----    CLASS DESCRIPTIONS    ----    ----    ----

TUESDAY SERIES:

The theme for Tuesday is "Navigating the Crowded Dance Floor"   CLASS LEVEL:  Beg/Int (no previous dance experience needed),

7:00-8:10:  "Big Blues Moments for Small Back Spaces" - great ways to shine, style, and play on a crowded dance floor.  In this class we'll delve into fun, playful solo steps and couples movements that help shape the blues asthetic, always being mindfull of how to match the energy between two partners, and how to be considerate of the space around you. A major emphasis of the class will be on solo & partner energy and connection which are the cornerstones of playful improvisation.

8:15-9:30:  "Bal-Swing 101: Balboa Basics for Blues & Swing Dancers":  Traditionally, bal-swing is thought of as a tight, close-connected, very smooth, very energy-efficient style of dancing done to the rip-roaring rag-time high-energy jazz music of the 20's and 30's. However, as a dance, the steps are very applicable to the modern music of today, and provide the perfect  transition if the floor is too crowded or if you want to take a 30-second breather from larger, high-energy swing or lindy movements.  In this class we'll review the basic balboa connection and step patterns, then add bal-swing variations like the "break step" and "syncopation shuffle", and introduce classics such as the "Lolly", the "come-around", and the "spike-out".  A perfect introduction to both this beautiful, playful, up-beat, classic dance style, and to it's application to the modern dance floor today.

WEDNESDAY SERIES:   

The theme for Wednesday is "Spicing it up for the Summer!"      CLASS LEVEL:  Int/Adv  (some basic dance experience required)

7:00-8:10: "Tango'd up in Blues" -- taking your blues on a little sojourn south of the equator!  In this class we'll explore how latin rhythm is frequently inherant in blues music, and how movement appropriate to that rhythm can be applied to your dance.  Embellish what you know of blues already by learning to cut the floor with sultry tango footwork and spicy latin breaks that are easily inserted into your blues styling.  A great way to broaden your dance horizons for the summer! 

8:15-9:30:  "West Coast Swing for Hot Summer Nights" -- Building on WCS basics (sugar push  & whip turn), we'll explore great new ways to stretch, glide and play using 6 & 8 count swing movements, garnished with some sweet & smokey blues styling.  A major emphasis of the class will be on energy and connection which are the cornerstones of playful improvisation.

1.   EVERY 2nd and 4th FRIDAY of the month [Temporarily on hold until further notice]:

          “Blues at the Bistro” at the Little Red Bistro:               

     TIMES:  

7:00pm-9:00pm:    Blues Dance Lessons with Ari Levitt & Whitney evans (Details below)

9:30pm-12:30am:  Dance to live blues, jazz & swing in the Little Red Bistro front room (FREE!)

9:30am-1:30am:   "Back-Stage Blues" with great host DJ's and fabulous dancers ($6 before 10pm, $8 after)                                             

     LOCATION:   

The Little Red Bistro, 

400 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA  (on the corner of Dexter and Harrison, South Lake Union)

                Bistro informatioin at:  www.littleredbistro.com                  

                Phone:  206 328-5981   

Plentiful free street parking available after 6pm                    

     BLUES DANCE CLASSES, with Ari & Whitney:

7-8pm:   "Blues Basics" (all levels) - learn the fundamentals of blues dancing from the ground up!  We'll

                  explore a different element of blues dancing each time.

8-9pm:  "Blues Moves, Musicality & Connection" (all level) - further exploring the conversation of dance 

                  through connection!       

                COST (for dance lessons only):  $10 for one class, $15 for two, $20 for both classes & the dance

                        Pay by cash or check at the door.  No pre-registration.  No partner necessary.

                LOCATION:  in the Little Red Bistro Theater Space (at the back of the Bistro) 

_______________________________________________________________________

2.   EVERY 1st FRIDAY of the month:

         “Red Tango” Alternative Milonga at the Little Red Bistro [Temporarily on hold until further notice]:

    TIMES:  

8:00-900pm:    Advanced Argentine Tango Lessons with Michelle Badion and Evan Wallace       

                            $15 lesson only, $20 lesson/milonga 

9:00-9:30pm:   Beginning Tango Lessons (FREE!)

9:30-1:30am:   "Alternative" Milonga -- mixing the best of tango, tango-nuevo, blues, and more! 

                            $10 dance only

     LOCATION:   

The Little Red Bistro, 

400 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA  (on the corner of Dexter and Harrison, South Lake Union)

              Bistro informatioin at:  www.littleredbistro.com                  

              Phone:  206 328-5981   

Plentiful free street parking available after 6pm                    

****************

Every 4th Friday of the Summer

 (June, July, August) at Om Culture

Come join us for a wonderful night of music & dancing, each month sporting a new party theme.

DATES AND PARTY THEMES:

• Friday, JUNE 24th:   "Prom-uh-not" (The "Anti-Prom" Dance).     It's that time of year when young pimple-laden lads are fine-tuning their corsage-pinning skills, and young lasses are getting their tetnus shots and stocking up on bandaids and antisceptic.... Let's relive those glorious High School days by coming dressed as what you would not have wanted to see either worn by your date, or by your chaperoning parents at your HS prom.  What is the ugliest attire, the worst matching ensemble, or the most outrageous get-up you can find?  Don't be shy... Tonight's a night to celebrate the worst.  Wear something to challenge the senses.  Prom pictures will be taken to memorialize the event for posterity  :) 
• Dance Lesson: 
• Option A: "The Collegiate Shag"  .... say no more.  
• Option B:  The "Madison time" 
 
• Friday, JULY 26th:  "Sea-Fair Pirates!"  Come as your favorite local sea-fairing character, captain, pirate, crustaceon, fish, or marine mammal (Kudos if look like Jack Sparrow.  Extra kudos if you can dance in one those Ivar's clam costumes!). 
• The dance lesson will be:
• Option A: a mid-summer's night club two step
• Option B: The pirates "shaken" booty
 
• Friday, AUGUST 26th:  "Tropical Party" & Potluck Night   It's all about the mumu's, lei's, bermuda shorts, and pineapple hats.  Carmen Miranda would be so proud!  We'll have some tropical refreshments.  We'll mix a fine selection of tropical music into the set.  Bring something delicious or thirst-quenching to share with the group.
• The dance lesson may include (my favorite beach party songs --
• Option A:  "Pata Pata"
• Option B:  "Hot hot hot!". 
 

LOCATION: 

Om Culture, 2210 N Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98103 (Near Gasworks Park in the Wallingford Neighborhood).  Plenty of free street parking along the waterfront and in the surrounding neighborhood) 

TIMES: 

• Doors open at 7:00pm
• 7:30 - 8:30pm:  Pre-Dance lesson with Ari & Whitney
• 8:30 - 11:00pm:  DJ'd social dance playing a wonderful mix of waltz, swing, zydeco, two-step, latin, and blues (among others) for your listening and dancing pleasure

COST (cash or check at the door)

• $15 dollars for lesson and dance
• $10 for dance only

======== JULY ========

This July:  Three "Night Club Two-Step" Stand-Alone Workshops 

(All are beginning level, taught with Lilli Ann Carey of "Dance For Joy!")

• CLASS:    Basics of Nightclub 2-Step
• DATES:    Wednesday(s) - July 13, 20 and 27
• TIME:       7-9pm

Each night we will introduce basic night club footwork, then dive deeper into one or two elements of those steps, adding fun variations you can build upon in the dance (ie. left turns and left turn variations). This is a great place to get your grounding on NC2S footwork, styling, and connection. Take any of the three classes as a drop in, or take the whole series for the best value!  After completing this course, you will be well prepared to jump into this beautifully flowing romantic dance anywhere it is played.

• LOCATION:    Exit Space Dance, 414 NE 72nd Street, Seattle   For a link to a map go to exitspacedance.com/contact.htm

• TO REGISTER:  Click here to Register online:  $20 advanced registration per person/per night 
                          (by series only), or pay $25/class at the door.

 DESCRIPTION:  Night club two step is a beautiful smooth-style flowing dance that combines elements of the "quick-quick-slow" latin or salsa step, with the up-right, lilting, traveling style of a foxtrot or ballroom dance, and is danced to some of the most beautiful, slower, straight-tempo'd pop songs or ballads that you'll hear coming from the last three decades.

     Ari is one of this country's leading experts in Night Club 2-Step, having learned the dance in California directly from it's innovator, Buddy Schwimmer over 25 years ago.  In the early 1990's, he introduced the first Night Club 2-Step classes to Seattle while teaching with Living Traditions, and has been performing, creating, and teaching it locally, nationally and internationally ever since.  Click here to see an example of this beautiful, flowing, smooth-style dance. 

Take your dancing up a notch with these wonderful specialty workshops designed for the slightly more experienced dancer:   

This June, we're featuring a month of

 Two-Hour "Tune-Up's"

...A variety of two-hour mini intensives focusing on new footwork, steps, and combinations to limber you up for the summer! 

One Wednesday "Special-Interest" Workshop:

• Wed, June 1st:  "Lifts, Dips, Drops & Liabilities II"

Learn fun new moves, plus valuable tips on how to safely execute and transition into lifts, dips, drops, and pivots, while protecting yourself and your partner from injury or harm.  A must for all dancers!       Click here for details

Four Tuesday "Two-hour Tune-up's": 

Tues, June 7th (7-9pm):  "Tantilizing Tuck & Turn Variations"   Learn a litany of fun, new T&T variations like the "telemark", the "American spin", the "American traveler", the "seatbelt", the 'shoot through", and "Ari's special combo"  (Guided practice from 9-9:30 included!) 

 

Tues, June 14th (7-9pm):  "Shines & Rhythm Steps"   Learn great new ways to shine, style, and play on the dance floor!  We'll introduce a half dozen new individual and partner syncopations like the "slide", the "freeze", the "bump", and the "boog", plus review some classic jazz steps like the "jockey" and the "cross-over" to spice up your swing! (Guided practice from 9-9:30 included!) 

 

Tues, June 21st (7-9pm):  "Swing that Travels!"   Even more original new moves and variations including the "bal spike", "running the line",  the "sushi roll", the "king-fisher" (a catch & release move), the "tunnel", syncopations and more!  (Guided practice from 9-9:30 included!)

 

Tues, June 28th (7-9pm):  "Phrase Breaks & Even Funner Footwork!"   Continuing with even more shines and stylings, but this time one's that come specifically at the end's of musical phrases, emphasizing the breaks.  We'll also dabble in some playful "fancy" moves that can be used for just such occasions  :)   (Guided practice from 9-9:30 included)

WHEN:  Doors open at 6:40pm, Class from 7:00 - 9:00pm, Practice & Social from 9:00 - 9:40pm

WHERE: All classes will be held at a private studio/residence in the Eastlake Neighborhood of Seattle (just off I-5, at the intersection of I-5 & 520).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration. 

COST:  Each individual class is $25.   Space is limited. Pre-registration is required to maintain class balance. See details below for registration and payment.  

SPECIAL:   Pre-register by June 6th for any two classes above and receive a free "practice" music CD containing a wonderful collection of swing, R&B, and blues songs to practice to!

LEVEL:  Adv beg/Int level -- this is not for absolute beginners, but rather for the slightly more experienced dancer  (ie, you should be comfortable with the basic six-count swing steps and partnering).  No partner necessary.

• Thurs, June 16th (7-9pm):  "Right & Left Turn Combo's"
• Thurs, June 23rd (7-9pm):  "Traveling Variations"
• Thurs, June 30th (7-9pm):  "Ari's Favorite Moves"

WHEN:  Doors open at 6:40pm, Class from 7:00 - 9:00pm, Practice & Social from 9:00 - 9:45pm

WHERE: All Thursday classes will be held at Om Culture, 2210 N Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98103 (Near Gasworks Park in the Wallingford Neighborhood) 

COST:  Each individual class is $25 if pre-registered (Paypal or credit card), $30 at the door (cash or check only). Pre-registration is requested to maintain class balance. See details below for registration and payment.

SPECIAL:   Pre-register for all three Thursday workshops by June 6th and receive a free "practice" music CD containing a wonderful collection of night club 2-step songs to practice to!

LEVEL:  Int/Adv (you should be comfortable with the basic QQS steps, and left and right turns).  Other than that, everyone is welcome, no partner necessary. 

**Note, if you are not an int/adv level dancer, I will be teaching a three week intensive beginning level Night Club 2-Step class this July with 'Dance for Joy'.  More on this later... 

 

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.

Class size may be limited, so register early!

 DESCRIPTION:  Night club two step is a beautiful smooth-style flowing dance that combines elements of the "quick-quick-slow" latin or salsa step, with the up-right, lilting, traveling style of a foxtrot or ballroom dance, and is danced to some of the most beautiful, slower, straight-tempo'd pop songs or ballads that you'll hear coming from the last three decades.

     Ari is one of this country's leading experts in Night Club 2-Step, having learned the dance in California directly from it's innovator, Buddy Schwimmer over 25 years ago.  In the early 1990's, he introduced the first Night Club 2-Step classes to Seattle while teaching with Living Traditions, and has been performing, creating, and teaching it locally, nationally and internationally ever since.  Click here to see an example of this beautiful, flowing, smooth-style dance.

- - - - - - - DETAILS - - - - - - - 

    While many of our recent salon classes have focused on the more subtle nuances of close-connection & partnership in dance (with a minimal emphasis on footwork), this Fall we break out the footwork in spades and pack each class full of fun, new, innovative steps & combinations!!  

    Each of the Tuesday classes listed above can be taken as a single two-hour workshop, or in combination with any of the other classes listed.  The Thursday's Night Club 2-Step intensives can also be taken as individual classes, or as a three week series.  All classes in June will focus mainly on new steps, patterns, footwork, combinations, and styling.  

    All classes are followed by a guided practica and social hour providing you with even more opportunity for personalized attention from the instructors as well as a chance to mingle and schmooze with the other dancers.  What a wonderful way to socialize while expanding your dance reportoire for the summer ahead!!

GENERAL INFO:  Tuesday's "2-Hour tune Up" classes are in our unique "group-private" salon format, which means:

• Each class is limited to 6 leads and 6 follows for maximun personalized attention and one-on-one coaching
• Everybody is welcome.  No partner necessary.
• Please note class levels in the descriptions above. 

• Each class session includes:
• 2 hours of instruction
• 40 minutes hours of guided practice
• Lot's of new moves guaranteed!  

===== FALL (Sept-Oct-Nov) =====

Greetings all,
 
It's been a delightful but seemingly brief summer, but we trust you all had a wonderful few months with some quality outdoor time. Now with the Fall just around the corner, we're gearing up for our new Roll Up the Rug classes beginning in mid September. 
 
This notice is just a heads up for what we're planning.  The actual schedule and registration will be posted on www.rolluptherug.com soon (make sure you're on our email list and we'll let you know when registration opens).  We are really excited about our classes, which include an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of creating a new dance style for waltz which we will invent, showcase, and video for YouTube!  See details below:
 

Seattle Dance Classes (Sept/Oct)

For full class descriptions, see the "Class Descriptions" page

SIX TUESDAY's:  (Sept 20-Oct 25), plus free admission to our Tuesday Dances for Sept!  PLEASE NOTE:  The TUESDAY NIGHT classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) 

TUESDAY THEME:  "Let's invent!",    CLASS LEVEL:  Intermediate  (some basic dance experience required)

• 8:00-9:00: "Night Club 2-Step: fun combinations" - Beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  
 
• 9:00-11:00: Join us for our new Tuesday Night Dance at China Harbor (Sept is FREE for all students enrolled in either of the above two workshops)  See UPCOMING DANCES for details.

SIX WEDNESDAY's:  (Sept 21-Oct 26), plus discounted admission to our new Tuesday Dance!  

WEDNESDAY THEME:  "Focus on Connection!",  CLASS LEVEL:  Beg/Int  

• 7:00-8:00: "Blues Foundations and Role-Reversal" - an essential class for mastering the art of lead/follow connection and the ability for both partners to lead and listen concurrently -- the hallmark of great dancers!
 
• 8:15-9:15:  "Swing for Small Spaces" - continuing with our 'focus on connection' theme, we take the energy up a notch and explore great new ways to stretch, glide, turn, travel and play in swing!  
 
• 9:15-9:45  Guided practice and social.
   

 SIX THURSDAY's:  (Sept 22-Oct 27**), plus discounted admission to our new Tuesday Dance! 

THURSDAY THEME:  "Having fun with new footwork",  CLASS LEVEL: Beg/Int 

• 7:00-8:00: "Rhumba Nuevo" [NEW] - First learn the essentials of rhumba dancing, then learn to integrate elements from foxtrot, traveling blues, and tango to create a new blend of rhumba that's out of this world!   

• 8:15-9:15:  Club Dancing 101:  "The Hustle", and "Night Club 1-Step" [NEW] - We'll explore these two fun, lively paced, up-tempo dance styles that can be done to almost any modern club or up-tempo WCS music. For those attending Seabeck this year, this will be a great course to get you up to speed for the Barry Douglas hustle workshops.  The Night Club 1-Step is a wonderful variation of the 1-step enjoying a revival in the club scene.  Easy to learn.  Incredibly versatile and creative, and blends well with hustle or WCS! 
 
• 9:15-9:45:  Guided practice and social.
   

  **NOTE:  If you are attending the NWDN Seabeck Camp on Thursday, Oct 27, and will have to miss this last evening, let us know and we will make accommodations for you

   

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday 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 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

• All Wednesday and Thursday classes will be held at a private studio/residence in the Eastlake Neighborhood of Seattle (just off I-5, at the intersection of I-5 & 520).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration.  Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.

COST:
Each class session includes over 6 hrs of instruction, 3 hrs of guided practice, and a discounted or free admission to the Tuesday Night Dance at China Harbor (an additional $12 - $30 value)

• One class = $65        
• Two classes = $125  ($5 savings)  
• Three classes = $185  ($10 savings)
• Four classes = $245  ($15 savings)
• Five classes = $305  ($20 savings)
• Six classes = $365  ($25 saving)

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 PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early! 

SIX TUESDAY's:  (Sept 20-Oct 25), plus free admission to our Tuesday Dances for Sept!  PLEASE NOTE:  The TUESDAY NIGHT classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) 

TUESDAY THEME:  "Let's invent!",    CLASS LEVEL:  Intermediate  (some basic dance experience required)

• 8:00-9:00: "Night Club 2-Step: fun combinations" - Beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  
 
• 9:00-11:00: Join us for our new Tuesday Night Dance at China Harbor (FREE for all students enrolled in either of the above two workshops)  See UPCOMING DANCES for details.

SIX WEDNESDAY's:  (Sept 21-Oct 26), plus discounted admission to our new Tuesday Dance!  

WEDNESDAY THEME:  "Focus on Connection!",  CLASS LEVEL:  Beg/Int  

• 7:00-8:00: "Blues Foundations & Role Reversal" - an essential class for mastering the art of lead/follow connection and the ability for both partners to lead and listen concurrently -- the hallmark of great dancers!
 
• 8:15-9:15:  "Rhumba Nuevo" [NEW] - First learn the essentials of rhumba dancing, then learn to integrate elements from foxtrot, traveling blues, and tango to create a new blend of rhumba that's out of this world! 
 
• 9:15-9:45  Guided practice and social.
   

LOCATION:  

• All Tuesday 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 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

• All Wednesday classes will be held at a private studio/residence in the Eastlake Neighborhood of Seattle (just off I-5, at the intersection of I-5 & 520).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration.  Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.

COST:
Each class session includes over 6 hrs of instruction, 3 hrs of guided practice, and admission to the Tuesday Night Dance at China Harbor! 

• One class = $65        
• Two classes = $125  ($5 savings)  
• Three classes = $185  ($10 savings)
• Four classes = $245  ($15 savings)

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! 

 ****************

Every 4th Friday of the Summer

 (June, July, August) at Om Culture

Come join us for a wonderful night of music & dancing, each month sporting a new party theme.

DATES AND PARTY THEMES:

• Friday, JUNE 24th:   "Prom-uh-not" (The "Anti-Prom" Dance).      Let's relive those glorious High School days by coming dressed as what you would not have wanted to see either worn by your date, or by your chaperoning parents, at your HS prom.  What is the ugliest attire, the worst matching ensemble, or the most outrageous get-up you can find?  Don't be shy... Tonight's a night to celebrate the worst.  Wear something to challenge the senses.  Prom pictures will be taken to memorialize the event  :)
• Pre-dance Lesson (8:00-9:00):  "The Collegiate Shag"  .... say no more.

• Friday, JULY 22nd:   "A Sea-Fair Pirate's Scalywag!"  Come as your favorite local sea-fairing character, captain, pirate, crustacean, fish, or marine mammal! 
• Pre-dance Lesson (8:00-9:00):  Learn to shake the "Pirate's Booty" 

• Friday, AUGUST 26th:   "Tropical Potluck"   It's all about the sarong's, lei's, bermuda shorts, and pineapple hats!  Bring something delicious, tropical, or thirst-quenching to share with the group.
• Pre-dance Lesson (8:00-9:00):  Caribbean Line dancing, "Pata Pata" & "Hot Hot Hot".   Limbo contest at 10:00pm  

LOCATION: 

Om Culture, 2210 N Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98103 (Near Gasworks Park in the Wallingford Neighborhood).  Plenty of free street parking along the waterfront and in the surrounding neighborhood) 

TIMES: 

• Doors open at 7:30pm
• 8:00 - 9:00pm:  Pre-Dance lesson with Ari & Whitney
• 9:00 - 11:30pm:  DJ'd social dance playing a wonderful mix of song styles (waltz, foxtrot, swing, salsa, cha cha, rhumba, two-step, latin, blues, zydeco, and more!) for your listening and dancing pleasure.

COST (cash or check at the door only)

• $15.00 for lesson + dance
• $10.00 for dance only

SUMMER SPECIAL for new RollUpTheRug email registrants:  Sign up on our email list (new registrants only) and get $5.00 off of the "lesson + dance" combo at any one of our "4th Friday" summer dances.

 

 Sunday at China Harbor

• Sunday, June 12th: "Night Club 2-Step Lesson & Dance" with Ari & Whitney for Harbor Swing Sunday
• 7:00 -8:00pm:  Ari & Whitney teach beginning "Night Club 2-Step"    NC2S is a beautiful, fluid, couples dance that that literally floats you across the floor.  CLICK HERE to view Ari & Whitney's night club 2-step demonstration done at this year's Folklife Festival as part of the "Couples Dances From Around the World"  presentation.  
• 8:00-11:00pm:  Ari DJ's a wonderful mix of dance styles including wcs, swing, nc2s, blues, latin, fox, waltz, ballroom. and more...
• LOCATION:  China Harbor,  2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA
• COST:  $5.00 for the lesson, $10.00 for the dance, $12.00 for both (cash or check at the door) 

"Dancing 'til Dusk"

this summer in a Seattle Park near you....

"Dancing 'til Dusk" is 18 glorious nights of outdoor dancing in four Seattle City Parks from July to September.  The events are all FREE, and feature an hour of a free beginning dance lesson in a variety of styles by top local Seattle teachers, followed by two hours of (mostly) live music featuring a lovely mix of local dance bands.

Check out the full schedule, details, and park locations at   http://www.danceforjoy.biz/dancetildusk11.html

The schedule is posted below 
Rain Hotline: 206-264-5646

Tuesdays in Westlake Park (6-9:30pm) 
   •  Jul 26—Ambiance | Golden Era Swing
   •  Aug 2—Glenn Crytzer and his Syncopators | Swing
   •  Aug 9—DJ Sean Donovan | Zydeco
   •  Aug 16—Solomon Douglas Swingtet | Swing/Blues
   •  Aug 23—DJ Robb Bryan| West Coast/East Coast Swing
 

Thursdays in Freeway Park (6-9:30pm) 
   •  Jul 28—Tangabrazo | Tango
   •  Aug 4—Portage Bay Big Band Big Band Swing | Swing Lesson with Ari Levitt
   •  Aug 11—Diane Kirkwood and Silver Lining | Swing/Blues
   •  Aug 18—Rouge | Waltz (It's a Ball Rouge, wear something red!)

Thursdays at SAM Olympic Sculpture Park (6-9pm) 
   •  Aug 25—Solomon Douglas Swingte Swing/Blues
   •  Sep 8—Tumbao | Salsa and Latin
   •  Sep 15—KGB | Waltz, Swing, Foxtrot, Polka (It's a Ball Blanc, wear something white!)

Salsa Saturdays in Occidental Park  (4-7pm) 
   •  Jul 30—DJ Vassili
   •  Aug 6—DJ Nick
   •  Aug 13—Christian Pepin Y Su Conjunto Swing
   •  Aug 20—Tumbao
 

 Slow Blues -- Blues Foundations and the Art of Close-Connection:

An essential class for mastering the art of lead/follow connection, and compression, extension and stretch techniques that apply not only to blues, but to all dance forms, all the while learning fun rhythms, footwork, jazz steps, and patterning to a variety of classic and contemporary Slow Blues and early American Jazz music.
 
Higher Energy Blues -- Walking Blues and an Introduction to Blues-Kizomba:
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 close-connection with floor movement and styling.  This class will also introduce elements of Fusion and Kizomba blues, two very beautiful free-style, close-connection, smooth and relaxed dance forms that combine elements of tango, bachata, and blues.

  By request, we are bringing back our  "Lifts, Dips, Drops, and Liabilities" workshop, introducing a whole new set of fun, playful moves that will allow you and your partner to safely shine on and off the floor!   

WHAT:  "Lifts, Dips, Drops & Liabilities II"

Add some great new moves to your blues and dance repertoire, plus learn how to safely execute and transition into lifts, dips, drops, and pivots, while protecting yourself and your partner from injury or harm. 

WHEN:  Wednesday, June 1st, 7:00 - 9:30pm

WHERE: 

The workshop will be held in a private dance studio/residence in the Eastlake area of Seattle (just off I-5, at the juncture of I-5 & 520).  Directions and details will be sent to  you upon completion of registration.

Space is limited to 6 leads and 6 follows.   We sold out for the last workshop, so sign up early!

• No prior dance experience needed. 
• No partner needed (though we highly encourage you to sign up with someone you would like to practice with)

COST:  $25

REGISTRATION:  Click on the "Registration" button on the top left side of this page, fill out the registration form, then proceed to the "Payment" page.  Payment can be made using Paypal or Credit Card.

Tuesday, September 13th:

It's our "Say Goodbye to Summer" Dance

Join us for a wonderful gathering of good friends, music, dancing, and song, and a chance to bid a fond adieu to a wonderful summer gone bye...

• WHEN:  Tuesday, September 13th, 2011: 
• 7:30-8:30pm:  Free Beginning "Swinging the Blues" lesson, with Ari & Whitney    
• 8:30-11:00pm:  Enjoy a wonderful mix of dance styles including swing, NC2S, blues, latin, fox, waltz, ballroom, and more...
• LOCATION:  China Harbor,  2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA.  Plentiful, free parking available just outside the door

• COST:  FREE!

Tuesday Night's at China Harbor

 Come join us for wonderful nights of music & dancing (optional dining too!), each Tuesday this Fall at China Harbor.  

A fun, friendly, informal place to dance and practice.  Each week we will highlight one particular dance genre (ie, waltz, swing, blues, latin, etc) and dedicate roughly one in every four or five songs to that style.  For those new to the dance, we'll have opportunities for a free, three-minute "off-the-floor" mini-lesson in that week's dance style at the start of the evening, as well as special guest "coaches" to help answer your questions throughout the night! 

"If you are taking any of the numerous social dance classes this Fall offered by various Seattle groups or teachers, this presents the perfect opportunity to come together and practice what you've been learning after the lessons!  Or just come by, play, and have fun socializing & dancing in this lovely informal setting!" 

LOCATION:   China Harbor,  2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle  (plentiful free parking!) 

TIME:    

• 9:00 - 11:00pm (following the Roll Up The Rug lessons).  Dance to a wonderful mix of tempos & styles -- waltz, swing, blues, fox, salsa, cha cha, rhumba, two-step, latin, zydeco, and more! 

COST:   

• General:  $7.00  (cash or check at the door only)

• FALL SPECIAL for new RollUpTheRug email registrants:  Sign up on our email list (new registrants only) and get a coupon for $2.00 off of the general admission price to the next dance. 

• FALL SPECIAL for any student concurrently enrolled in one of the RollUpTheRug class Fall series:  Take $2.00 off of the general admission price during the full period you are taking classes.

We are really excited about our classes, which include an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of creating a new dance style for waltz which we will invent, showcase, and video for YouTube!  We'll also be introducing a new club-dance style to Seattle that we picked up last year in New Zealand -- no worries, mate!

On Tuesday nights we'll take advantage of the large dance space at China Harbor to explore the process of creativity in dance.  

In each class we'll introduce a basic element of the dance, then dive deeper into variations that can be strung into a delightful combination that you can continue to build upon.  For those who took Ari's intro classes with Lilli Ann, or intermediate workshops with Whitney this summer, this is perfect for you! 

**Ari is one of this country's leading experts in Night Club 2-Step, having learned the dance in California directly from it's innovator, Buddy Schwimmer over 25 years ago.  In the early 1990's, he introduced the first Night Club 2-Step classes to Seattle while teaching with Living Traditions, and has been performing, creating, and teaching it locally, nationally and internationally ever since.  Click here to see an example of this beautiful, flowing, smooth-style dance.

• Inventing the "Waltz Rueda" (Tues, 8-9pm):  

This will be a wonderful class for intermediate & advanced level dancers, where participants will work collaboratively to help invent, name, and create a video library of moves and transitions for a dance style we're calling "Waltz Rueda".  Borrowing from the "salsa rueda" and "round dance" forms, waltz rueda will use cross-step waltz as a foundation for movements where partners can be exchanged or passed back and forth within the dance.  So far nothing like this exists in a formalized way for cross-step waltz, so we'll literally be the first to create and name the movements for this dance!

FIVE MONDAYS's:  (Nov 21-Dec 19)  PLEASE NOTE:  The MONDAY NIGHT classes are held at our new KIRKLAND Studio (Details sent upon registration)

MONDAY THEME:  "Introduction to dance and dance connection!",  CLASS LEVEL:  Beg 

• 7:00-8:00:  "The Art of Partner Dancing" - Learn the true art of partner dancing with this fun blues-based introduction to steps, styling, and lead/follow connection!  Perfect for both beginning dancers or experienced dancers who want to focus on connection.
 
• 8:00-9:00:  "Swinging the Blues, 101" - The perfect introduction to swing dancing!  Take the blues energy up a notch, now adding 6-count swing steps, turns, and traveling moves to the pot. 
 
• 9:00-9:30  Guided practice and social.

FIVE TUESDAY's:  (Nov 22-Dec 20), plus free admission to our Tuesday Dances.  PLEASE NOTE:  The TUESDAY NIGHT classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) 

TUESDAY THEME:  "Let's invent!",    CLASS LEVEL:  Intermediate  (some basic dance experience required)

• 8:00-9:00:  "Night Club 2-Step: fun combinations II" - Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.
 
• 9:00-10:00: Join us for our Tuesday Night Dance Practice at China Harbor (FREE)  See UPCOMING DANCES for details.

FIVE WEDNESDAY's:  (Nov 23-Dec 21)  PLEASE NOTE:  The WEDNESDAY NIGHT classes are held at our EASTLAKE Studio (Details sent upon registration)

WEDNESDAY THEME:  "Focus on Connection!",  CLASS LEVEL:  All Levels 

• 7:00-8:00:  "Advanced Framework - Blues Based" - an essential class for mastering the art of quiet lead/follow connection and the ability for both partners to lead and listen concurrently -- the hallmark of great BLUES dancers!
 
• 8:00-9:00:  "Advanced Framework - Swing Based" -  an essential class for mastering the art of higher energy lead/follow connection and the ability to lead or respond to 'powered-up' movement -- the hallmark of great SWING dancers!
 
• 9:00-9:30  Guided practice and social.
   

LOCATION:  

• All Monday classes will be held a private studio/residence in Kirkland (near Totem Lake).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration.  Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.

• All Tuesday 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 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

• All Wednesday classes will be held at a private studio/residence in the Eastlake Neighborhood of Seattle (just off I-5, at the intersection of I-5 & 520).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration.  Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.

COST:
Each class session includes over 6 hrs of instruction, 3 hrs of guided practice, and admission to the Tuesday Night Dance at China Harbor! 

• One class = $65        
• Two classes = $120  ($10 savings)  
• Three classes = $175  ($20 savings)
• Four classes = $230  ($30 savings)

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! 

_________________________________________________

WHEN:  Saturday, October 1st, 7-10pm 

• 7:00-8:00pm:  Introductory salsa lesson with Ari & Whitney
• 8:00-10:00pm:  Dance to live music by Grupo Meridional

WHAT:  "Grupo Meridional" CD release party, live music and dance on Bainbridge Island

The evening will include live music by Grupo Meridional (of course!), food provided by the club, complimentary Salsa lessons by Ari & Whitney throughout the night, and a no host bar.   

WHERE:   Wing Point Golf & Country Club, 811 Cherry Avenue, Bainbridge Island

COST:  FREE!  

_________________________________________________

WHEN:  Sunday, October 2nd, 6:30 - 9:00pm

WHAT:  "At Play with the One-Step"

with Ari Levitt & Lilli Ann Carey

With the expanding slow oozy blues movement, we rarely see taught the one-step and yet if you look around on the dance floor, it is everywhere and often combined with slow blues. Originally a dance from the Ragtime-era, popularized by Vernon and Irene Castle, it combines grapevines, pivots and swing-type moves in a one-step pattern to zip around the dance floor in great style and play.  

WHERE:   Sonny Newmans' Dance Hall, 201 N 85th St. Seattle, WA

COST:  $25

REGISTRATION:  To Register- email lilli@att.net and pay at the door- cash or check!  

_____________________________________

WHEN:  Sunday, October 9th, 6:30 - 9:00pm

WHAT:  "Delightful Inventions in Swing"

with Ari Levitt & Lilli Ann Carey

Most of us have an East Coast Swing repertoire.  Good solid stuff, but maybe it's time for a fresh set of material to inspire a smile and engage creativity.

This workshop will add to your playlist of moves with inventiveness to please both lead and follow.  

WHERE:   Sonny Newmans' Dance Hall, 201 N 85th St. Seattle, WA

COST:  $25

REGISTRATION:  To Register- email lilli@att.net and pay at the door- cash or check!  

_____________________________________

WHEN:  Sunday, November 20th -- Two Afternoon Workshops and Dance

• 4-5pm:  "WCS and Blues Fusion" with Ari & Whitney
• 5-6pm:  "Int/Adv Night Club Two-Step Combinations" with Ari & Whitney
• 6-9pm:  WCS dance with DJ Paul Booth

WHAT:  "WCS/Blues Fusion" & "Int/Adv Night Club Two-Step Combinations"

with Ari & Whitney

This promises to be a fun afternoon of exploring new frontiers in your dance, starting with an insightful workshop on how to "bluesify" your WCS by first focussing on subtle weight shift and balance techniques found in closer-connection dances such as tango or blues, and then incorporating a higher sensitivity to body-conversation between the lead and follow that makes the dance much more exciting and improvisational.

At 5pm we'll teach one of our favorite classes on int/adv level NC2S, using beautiful, flowing combinations that Ari has created by pulling together movements from a variety of different dance styles. This promises to be fun for both lead and follow.  

WHERE:   Alki Masonic Lodge, 4736 40th Ave SW, Seattle, WA

COST:  Seattle Swing Dance Club Members, $12/class or $19 for both;  Non-members $18/class or $25 for both. Free entry to the dance with with paid admission to any of the workshops.  Dance only, $7 (members)/$11 (non-members)

REGISTRATION:  Go to www.seattlewcswing.org for more information

_____________________________________

WHEN:  Saturday, December 3rd, 6:30 - 9:30pm

WHAT:  "First Saturday Dance at Ober Park, Vashon Island"

6:30 - 7:30pm: Beginning level Night Club 2-Step lesson with Ari & Whitney

7:30 - 9:30pm: FREE partner dance with deejay Candy

Hosted by the Vashon Social Dance Group, this is a lively, informal, wonderful evening of social dancing to an eclectic mix of music and a variety of styles, and a great excuse to get out to Vashon Island for a Saturday late afternoon or evening.  Ari & Whitney each a beginning NC2S class at 6:30.  All levels of dancers are invited, no partner needed, and lots of encouragement available.   

WHERE:   Ober Park Performance Hall, 17130 Vashon Hwy SW, Vashon Island.  From West Seattle, take the Fauntleroy Ferry to Vashon Island (about $5 R/T for walk-on).  The dance hall is located in the center of town, 4.3 miles from the Vashon ferry landing, just past SW Cove Rd.  Bus 118 from the ferry landing stops in front of Ober Park and runs approximately every 10 minutes.

COST:  FREE ($10 suggested donation)

MORE INFO:  If you have any questions about the dance, the lesson, or geting to the venue, contact Candy at 206 920-7596  

 Tuesday Night's at China Harbor

 Come join us for wonderful nights of music & dance practice, each Tuesday this Winter at China Harbor.  

A fun, friendly, informal place to dance and practice.  Each week we will highlight one particular dance genre (ie, waltz, swing, blues, latin, etc) and dedicate roughly one in every four or five songs to that style.  

"If you are taking any of the numerous social dance classes this Fall offered by various Seattle groups or teachers, this presents the perfect opportunity to come together and practice what you've been learning after the lessons!  Or just come by, play, and have fun socializing & dancing in this lovely informal setting!" 

LOCATION:   China Harbor,  2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle  (plentiful free parking!) 

TIME:    

• 9:00-10:00pm (following the Roll Up The Rug lessons).  Dance to a wonderful mix of tempos & styles - waltz, swing, blues, fox, salsa, cha cha, rhumba, two-step, and more! 

COST:   

• $3-$5 donation requested at the door to help pay for the space

  ______________________________________________________________

Join us this year for the wonderful

"Cornucopia Harvest Ball"

Sunday, Oct 16th, 2011, 5-9pm at the Polish Hall

A richly elegant evening of music, dance, and culinary delights, featuring live music by the Cornucopia Orchestra (sponsored by "Dance For Joy")

 Tickets & Information at:   http://www.danceforjoy.biz/cornucopia.html 

Introducing a new concept for Int/Adv level dancers:

The "1-3-5 Workshop" Series

Focus on ONE element or move in dance

Learn how to apply it to THREE different dance styles, or more!

Come away with at least FIVE different combinations!

Tuesday, Dec 27th, 2011:

"Tantalizing Tales of Tucks & Turns"

• WHEN: Doors open at 6:45pm. Workshop runs from 7-9pm. Free dance practice from 9-10pm
• WHERE: China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA. Plenty of free parking available.
• COST: Each workshop is $25, both for $45 (credit card or PayPal online; cash or check at the door only)
• LEVEL: Participants should be comfortable with a basic (ie, beginning level) East coast swing, cross-step waltz, and either a NC2S or Salsa.

Tuesday, Jan 3rd, 2012:

"Uncorking the Grapevine!"

• WHEN: Doors open at 6:45pm. Workshop runs from 7-9pm. Free dance practice from 9-10pm
• WHERE: China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA. Plenty of free parking available.
• COST: Each workshop is $25, both for $45 (credit card or PayPal online; cash or check at the door only)
• LEVEL: Participants should be comfortable with a basic (ie, beginning level) East coast swing, cross-step waltz, and either a NC2S or Salsa.

FIVE TUESDAY's:  (Apr 17-May 22, No class May 1), plus free practica until 10:00pm.  PLEASE NOTE:  The TUESDAY NIGHT classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) 

TUESDAY THEME:  "Let's invent!",    CLASS LEVEL:  Intermediate  (some basic dance experience required)

• 8:15-9:15:  "Night Club 2-Step: Fun Combinations" - Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's unique library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S.
 
• 9:15-10:00: Join us for our Tuesday Night Dance Practice at China Harbor (FREE)  See UPCOMING DANCES for details.

FIVE WEDNESDAY's:  (Apr 18-May 23, No class May 2)  PLEASE NOTE:  The WEDNESDAY NIGHT classes are held at our EASTLAKE Studio (Details sent upon registration)

WEDNESDAY THEME:  "Focus on Connection!",  CLASS LEVEL:  All Levels 

• 7:00-8:00:  "Blues - Fun & Play With Poly-Rhythms" - This session we will play with multiple rhythms and pulses happening concurrently in our partnering -- skills especially applicable to blues waltz.  You will also learn the quiet art of lead/follow connection and the ability for both partners to lead and listen concurrently to each other and to the music -- the hallmark of great BLUES dancers!  Designed for dancers of all levels.
 
• 8:15-9:15:  "Swinging Outside The Box! (Focusing on Musicality & Creativity)" -Improvisation begins with great connection -- to your partner and to the music.  Learn to create musical phrases and conversations through your body that match the rhythms and breaks in the music.  An essential class for developing the art of higher energy swing connection and the ability to lead or respond to 'powered-up' movement while connecting to the music -- the hallmark of great SWING dancers!  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7pm "Blues Poly-Rhythms" class. CLICK HERE to take a look at a youtube video of our swing teaser.
 
• 9:15-9:45  Guided practice and social.
   

LOCATION:  

• All Monday classes will be held a private studio/residence in Kirkland (near Totem Lake).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration.  Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.

• All Tuesday 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 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

• All Wednesday classes will be held at a private studio/residence in the Eastlake Neighborhood of Seattle (just off I-5, at the intersection of I-5 & 520).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration.  Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.

COST:
Each class session includes over 5 hrs of instruction, 2.5 hrs of guided practice, and admission to the Tuesday Night Dance Practice at China Harbor! 

• One class = $65        
• Two classes = $120  ($10 savings)  
• Three classes = $175  ($20 savings)
• Four classes = $230  ($30 savings)

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! 

Come celebrate

St. Patrick's Day

in dance party style!

Ari spins a wonderful mix of music for your partner dancing pleasure (swing, blues, waltz, ballroom, latin, night club 2-step, and more!). What better way to usher in the weekend!

LOCATION: Sonny Newman's Dance Hall, 201 N 85th St. Seattle, WA

TIME: Saturday, March 17th (7:00pm - 12:00am)

Doors open at 7pm, Free dance lesson 7:15-8pm (this week, the foxtrot!), Open dance 8pm - midnight

COST: $12.00 (cash or check at the door only, please)

TO BRING: BYOB, plus your smiles and dance shoes. We'll provide the music, games, and more...

Sun, March 18th is

"HARBOR SWING SUNDAY"

With Guest Instructor & DJ, Ari Levitt.

TIME: Arrive at 7 PM for a Swing/Blues fusion dance lesson, then dance from 8 to 11:30 PM.

COST: Admission is $5 for the 7 PM lesson and $10 for the dance, or $12 for both. Ages 21 and over.

LOCATION: China Harbor Restaurant, 2040 Westlake Ave N on the west side of Lake Union in Seattle.

Sun, April 1st is

"HARBOR SWING SUNDAY"

With Guest Instructor & DJ, Ari Levitt.

TIME: Arrive at 7 PM for a Blues-Waltz fusion dance lesson, then dance from 8 to 11:30 PM.

COST: Admission is $5 for the 7 PM lesson and $10 for the dance, or $12 for both. Ages 21 and over.

LOCATION: China Harbor Restaurant, 2040 Westlake Ave N on the west side of Lake Union in Seattle.

Sun, April 22nd is

"HARBOR SWING SUNDAY"

With Guest Instructor & DJ, Ari Levitt.

TIME: Arrive at 7 PM for a Night Club 2-Step dance lesson, then dance from 8 to 11:30 PM.

COST: Admission is $5 for the 7 PM lesson and $10 for the dance, or $12 for both. Ages 21 and over.

LOCATION: China Harbor Restaurant, 2040 Westlake Ave N on the west side of Lake Union in Seattle.

Monday, April 2nd, 2012:   

 "Lifts, Dips, & Liabilities -- Lifts Without Lifting & Dips without Dropping" 

 .....all lovely and appropriate moves for the social dance floor from an MD's perspective:

All too often Whitney and I have seen dancers injured on the floor by throwing themselves or their partners into inappropriate dips or drops. In fact, we were both recently injured this way, which is what inspired this class. While it's true that in this workshop you will learn a number of ways to add elegance and garnish to your dancing with lovely dips, elevations, flourishes, and balance steps, the focus will really be on how to safely execute and transition into these kinds moves while best protecting yourself and your partner.

No partner required.       Great for all levels of dancers.

No experience necessary.

**PLEASE NOTE: No one will be lifted off the ground in this workshop!

 

• WHEN:  Doors open at 6:45pm.  Workshop runs from 7-9:15pm.  Free dance practice from 9:15-10pm
• WHERE:   Kirkland Studio (Details sent with registration).  
• COST:   $25 each, or $45 for both (Mon & Tues) (credit card or PayPal online; cash or check at the door only)  CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
• LEVEL:  All levels welcome.  No prior experience needed. No partner necessary.

 Join us for a wonderful afternoon exploring: 

"The Secrets of Beautiful Flowing Waltz"

Saturday, April 14th

with special guest instructors

Uwe Hessinger & Colleen Suzanne from Portland, OR.

 WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 2012

       Three Workshops from 1:00 - 5:00pm (doors open at 12:30pm)

1:00 - 2:10   "Open Cross-Step Variation"

• FUNdamentals and Transitions into and out of Cross-Step
• Inserting Turns (including a very cool "flick")
• Connection with your partner, and "filling" the music

2:20 - 3:30  "RightTurn Cross-Step Variations"

• Favorite moves which make your partner feel and look good
• Using speed and timing to create visual tension

3:40 - 4:50   "Variation TBD"

• More wonderful variations, custom tailored to the participants (We have plenty to pick from!)

 

WHERE: China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA

There is plenty of free parking available. Doors to the dance hall open at 12:30pm. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc. China Harbor has a full bar and lunch/dinner menu as well.

 

EARLY-BIRD COST:

• All three Saturday Workshops (4 hrs hours of class) $50, or $20 per single workshop if signed up by midnight, April 7th
• From April 8th on, $60/$25

Pre-registration is highly encouraged to maintain lead/follow balance.  You can pay online by Visa or PayPal.  Cash or check at the door only, please. 

 

 Click here to register

 WHEN: Sunday, July 1, 2012

       A special 4-hr Workshop from 3-7pm (doors open at 2:40pm)

3:00 - 5:00 Focus:   "Open Cross-Step Variations"

• FUNdamentals and Transitions into and out of Cross-Step
• Inserting Turns (including a very cool "flick")
• Connection with your partner, and "filling" the music

5:00 - 7:00 Focus  "Right Turning Cross-Step Variations"

• Favorite moves which make your partner feel and look good
• Using speed and timing to create visual tension

 

WHERE: Washington Hall, 153 14th Ave, Seattle, WA

There is plenty of parking available on the street or in the adjoining lot. Registration opens at 2:40pm. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc. 

 

EARLY-BIRD COST:

• EXTRA-EARLY BIRD SPECIAL:  if registered by midnight, April 30th: $45
• From May 1st - May 31st:  $50
• From June 1st - June 30: $55
• At the door:  $60

Pre-registration is highly encouraged to maintain lead/follow balance.  You can pay online by Visa or PayPal.  Cash or check at the door only, please. 

 

 Click here to register

Taking your Waltz turns to new heights!
Partner Dancing with flow and ease through beautiful moves.

Uwe & Colleen love Waltz, love to teach Waltz, and are very excited to bring their favorite Waltz moves and material to Seattle!

Expect fun and high energy classes that will help you dance with flow and ease, lead with clarity and follow with grace and pleasure. You will learn beautiful and dynamic moves, from small to big, ready for the social and sometimes crowded dance floor.

Colleen and Uwe will address partner connection and pleasant styling. Uwe's simple and short Physics of Waltz demonstrations will show you helpful concepts for your waltz. Colleen will give you simple tools that will make your following flow.

Each class covers beautiful variations for the dance floor, as well as simple and fun skills to benefit your waltz. Dancers should have experience in a turning waltz. Most variations will offer several options of different skill level to challenge everybody.

WORKSHOPS:

Check out our upcoming WORKSHOPS with locations in both SEATTLE & KIRKLAND:

• Wednesday, May 2nd, 7-9pm (Seattle): "Ladies Styling", with special guest instructor, Gwen Spinks (learn how to creat beautiful hands, feet, poise and balance on the dance floor) (All-Levels)

• Tuesday, April 3rd (Seattle): Our Innovative "1-3-5" Workshop (taking 1 move, applying it to at least 3 different dance styles, learning 5 or more combinations!): This Month's Theme: "The Cross-Body Lead" (Adv Beg/Int)

Roll Up The Rug and DANCE!

We offer fun, detailed, private, semi-private, and group classes that are designed to bring joy to your day, clarity to your step, understanding to your movement, connection to your partnering, and to greatly increase your enjoyment of dance!

Teaching in Seattle, throughout the USA, and internationally. Talk to us about bringing a workshop to your community!

WORKSHOPS:

Check out our upcoming WORKSHOPS with locations in both SEATTLE & KIRKLAND:

• Wednesday, May 2nd, 7-9pm (Seattle): "Ladies Styling", with special guest instructor, Gwen Spinks Learn how to creat beautiful hands, feet, poise and balance on the dance floor! (All-Levels)

• Sunday, July 1st, 3-7pm (Seattle): Uwe & Colleen present "Favorite Moves from our 2011 & 2012 Classes" Join Portland's top waltz instructors for a delightful afternoon of new waltz moves and combination! (Adv Beg/Int) SIGN UP TODAY FOR SPECIAL EARLY BIRD PRICING

Join us at CHINA HARBOR Wed, May 2nd for a very special "LADIES STYLING" workshop with special guest instructor, Gwen Spinks, from Canada. 7-9pm. $25. CLICK HERE for more details

Wednesday, May 2nd, 2012:

"Ladies Styling Workshop"

with Special Guest, Gwen Spinks

Gwen has been teaching social ballroom dance and Argentine Tango since 1989. Her passion for dancing is easily seen in her expression of movement and flowing style.

Join Whitney & Gwen for a 2-hour workshop that will focus on arm movement, foot work, and building grace, poise, and confidence on the dance floor

CLICK HERE to register

• WHEN: Doors open at 6:45pm. Workshop runs from 7-9:00pm.
• WHERE: China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave North, Seattle, WA
• COST: $25 (credit card or PayPal online; cash or check at the door only)
• LEVEL: All levels welcome. No prior experience needed. No partner necessary.

Join us for a wonderful afternoon of instruction & dance:

Uwe & Colleen (Portland's Top Waltz Instructors) present:

"Favorite Moves From Our 2011 & 2012 Classes"

Sunday, July 1st, 2012

3-7pm

a very special one-time workshop for the Seattle Waltz Community

Taking your Waltz turns to new heights!
Partner Dancing with flow and ease through beautiful moves.

Uwe & Colleen are very excited to return to Seattle and reconnect with dancers. They will bring you their students favorite material of 2011 & 2012. You will love these moves!

Expect fun and high energy classes that will help you dance with flow and ease, lead with clarity and follow with grace and pleasure. You will learn beautiful and dynamic moves, from small to big, ready for the social and sometimes crowded dance floor.

Colleen and Uwe will address partner connection and dancing with pleasant styling. Colleen will give you simple but very helpful tools that will make your following flow. Uwe will share clever tricks to make your leading more efficient and therefore more relaxed

Each class covers beautiful variations for the dance floor, as well as simple and fun skills to benefit your waltz. Dancers should have experience in a turning waltz. Most variations will offer several options of different skill level to challenge everybody.

WHEN: Sunday, July 1, 2012

Three Workshops from 3:00 - 6:50pm (doors open at 2:40pm)

A: 3:00 - 4:10 "Favorite Moves with Eye-Catching Moments"

• Clever tricks to make you and your partner look and feel great
• Setting up moves to get flow "out of nowhere". It's like magic!

B: 4:20 - 5:30 "Dynamic Cross-Step Variations"

• Fast moves, safe and easy to lead even on a busy dance floor
• Using speed and timing to create visual tension

C: 5:40 - 6:50 "Variation TBD"

• More wonderful variations, custom tailored to the participants (Lots of options available here!)

WHERE: Washington Hall, 153 14th Ave, Seattle, WA

There is plenty of parking available on the street or in the adjoining lot. Registration opens at 2:40pm. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.

EARLY-BIRD COST:

• EXTRA-EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: if registered and paid by midnight, May 10th: $45 for all three workshops/$20 for one workshop!
• From May 11th - May 31st: $50 for all three workshops/$20 for one workshop
• From June 1st - June 30: $55 for all three workshops/$20 for one workshop
• At the door: $60 for all three workshops/$25 for one workshop

Pre-registration is highly encouraged to maintain lead/follow balance. You can pay online by Visa or PayPal. Cash or check at the door only, please.

Click here to register

A note from Uwe & Colleen:

Dear Seattle Waltz Dancers!

We are very much looking forward to coming up to Seattle April 14th and bringing our favorite waltz material to you. We think that you will enjoy the moves and will find tips on some technique and styling helpful and fun. Here is list of variations and related fundamentals which we are bringing up for you.

Variations:
Floating Weave
Feather hanging & Feather in the stream
Window with a skew
Little Knot untied
Turns: Dynamic & Free
Cross-Step Underarm
Very handy 2 Count Reversal
Cross-Step Skater

Fundamentals:
Cross Step with Sway
Twinkle: Basics, 2D, 3D
Left Turn, free and closed, driving down the line & on a dime
Right Turn Cross-Step Waterfall, from casual to flying

See you soon
Uwe & Colleen

 Introducing a new concept for Int/Adv level dancers:

The "1-3-5 Workshop" Series

Focus on ONE element or move in dance

Learn how to apply it to THREE different dance styles, or more!

Come away with at least FIVE different combinations!

  Tuesday, April 3rd, 2012: 

"CROSS-BODY LEADS at PLAY"

• WHEN:  Doors open at 6:45pm.  Workshop runs from 7-9:15pm.  Free dance practice from 9:15-10pm
• WHERE:  China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA.  Plenty of free parking available. 
• COST:   $25 each, or $45 for both (Mon & Tues) (credit card or PayPal online; cash or check at the door only)   CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
• LEVEL:  Participants should be comfortable with a basic (ie, beginning level) Night Club 2-Step, Triple-Time Swing (aka "East Coast Swing"), and Cross-Step Waltz.

Wednesday, May 3rd, 2012:   

 "Ladies Styling Workshop" 

with Special Guest, Gwen Spinks 

Gwen has been teaching social ballroom dance and Argentine Tango since 1989.  Her passion for dancing is easily seen in her expression of movement and flowing style.

Join Whitney & Gwen for a 2-hour workshop that will focus on arm movement, foot work, and building grace, poise, and confidence on the dance floor

CLICK HERE to register

• WHEN:  Doors open at 6:45pm.  Workshop runs from 7-9:00pm.  
• WHERE:   China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave North, Seattle, WA  
• COST:   $25 (credit card or PayPal online; cash or check at the door only)  
• LEVEL:  All levels welcome.  No prior experience needed. No partner necessary.

 This Summer (starting mid July), it's

"DANCING 'TIL DUSK"

Free music & dance in Seattle parks

TIMES:  Most Tuesdays, Thursdays, & some Saturdays starting July 19th.  Typically there is a free dance lesson from 6-7pm, followed by live (or occasionally DJ'd) music from 7-9:30pm

COST:  Free 

LOCATION:   There are four downtown Seattle parks used for these events.  Check the Dancing 'til Dusk website link below for details, times, teachers, bands, and locations

CLICK HERE for more information

 Join us for a FREE hour of music & dance practice:

Tuesday Night: NC2S & Waltz

Wednesday Night: Tango & Blues 

LOCATION: China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA (plentiful free parking)

DATES:  Check the class schedule for the Tues/Wed lessons.  The practices are on those days only.

TIME:  9:15-10:00pm (following the Roll Up The Rug lessons

COST:  FREE! 

Get ready to sizzle this June with our

"Summer Latin Sampler!"

Four stand alone workshops introducing a different style of latin dance each time.

Take, one, two , three, or all four classes.  Stay for the guided dance practice afterwords!  EARLY-BIRD DISCOUNTS available now

 Beginners Track (Tues)   ---   Intermediate/Adv Track (Wed)

Sign up today for early-bird discount rates, plus get a free practice CD of music from all the classes if you register before May 22nd!

  Week 1 (June 5th, 6th):  "Sultry Summer Salsa!"

Kick off the summer with the workshop to get it all started!  Salsa is the classic latin dance that can be used as a foundation to learning cha cha, rhumba, cumbia, bachata, and many others.  In this workshop, you'll learn/review the essentials of mambo and salsa, then spice it up with more fun footwork, hot combinations, rhythmic syncopations, playful handwork and styling!

• Beg/Int Workshop:  Tuesday, June 5th, 7-9pm.  Guided practice 9-10pm  (Pre-requisite: none)
• Int/Adv Workshop:  Wednesday, June 6th, 7-9pm.  Guided practice 9-10pm  (Pre-requisite:  comfort with a salsa basic, pivot turn, and cross-body lead)

COST:  Prices below are for a single individual registering for 1, 2, 3, or all 4 classes of the series.  Each stand-alone workshop includes two hours of instruction and an hour of guided practice. If you are registering for more than one workshop (ie, all 4 sessions), you can mix and match the beginning and int/adv level classes depending on your comfort with that particular dance.  Just be sure to list your specific class choices on the registration page. 

*PayPal /Credit Card EARLY-BIRD PRICING (Good for online payment prior to the class).  

• One workshop = $30        
• Two workshops = $55  ($5 savings)  
• Three workshops = $75  ($15 savings)
• All Four workshops = $100  ($20 savings)

AT THE DOOR PRICING (cash or check only) 

• One workshop = $30        
• Two workshops = $60    
• Three workshops = $80  ($10 savings)
• All Four workshops = $105  ($15 savings)

SPECIAL:   Discount for follows willing to be leads, and for leads willing to be follows:   In the event that we have a surplus of leads or follows in the class on the day of the workshop, we may ask if there are any leads or follows who would be willing to change roles.  Volunteers at the time of class will be compensated with a 20% discount for that workshop.  If you are interested in signing up to be a volunteer, please register as a lead or follow, then mark the appropriate "Discount for lead/follows willing to change roles" box on the registration form.  

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! 

Get ready to sizzle this June with our

"Summer Latin Sampler!"

Four stand alone workshops introducing a different style of latin dance each time.

Take, one, two , three, or all four classes.  Stay for the guided dance practice afterwords!  EARLY-BIRD DISCOUNTS available now

 Beginners Track (Tues)   ---   Intermediate/Adv Track (Wed)

 Week 1 (June 5th, 6th):  "Hot Summer Salsa!"

Kick off the summer with the workshop to get it all started!  Salsa is the classic latin dance that can be used as a foundation to learning cha cha, rhumba, cumbia, bachata, and many others.  In this workshop, you'll learn/review the essentials of mambo and salsa, then spice it up with more fun footwork, hot combinations, rhythmic syncopations, playful handwork and styling!

• Beg/Int Workshop:  Tuesday, June 5th, 7-9pm.  Guided practice 9-10pm  (Pre-requisite: none)
• Int/Adv Workshop:  Wednesday, June 6th, 7-9pm.  Guided practice 9-10pm  (Pre-requisite:  comfort with a salsa basic, pivot turn, and cross-body lead)

COST:  Prices below are for a single individual registering for 1, 2, 3, or all 4 classes of the series.  Each stand-alone workshop includes two hours of instruction and an hour of guided practice. If you are registering for more than one workshop (ie, all 4 sessions), you can mix and match the beginning and int/adv level classes depending on your comfort with that particular dance.  Just be sure to list your specific class choices on the registration page. 

**SPECIAL EARLY-BIRD PRICING (Good now through May 31st).  

• One workshop = $25 ($5 savings)      
• Two workshops = $50  ($10 savings)  
• Three workshops = $70  ($20 savings)
• All Four workshops = $90  ($30 savings)    **Equivalent to buying 3, getting 1 free!**

*REGULAR EARLY-BIRD PRICING (Good June 1st - June 4th).  

• One workshop = $30        
• Two workshops = $55  ($5 savings)  
• Three workshops = $75  ($15 savings)
• All Four workshops = $100  ($20 savings)

AT THE DOOR PRICING (Good June 5th) 

• One workshop = $30        
• Two workshops = $60    
• Three workshops = $80  ($10 savings)
• All Four workshops = $105  ($15 savings)

SPECIAL:   Discount for follows willing to be leads:   In the event that we have a surplus of follows in the class on the day of the workshop, we may ask if there are any follows who would be willing to become leads.  Volunteers at the time of class will be compensated with a 20% discount for that workshop.  If you are interested in signing up to be a volunteer, please register as a follow, then mark the appropriate "Discount for follows willing to lead" box on the registration form.  

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! 

CLASSES:

Check out our new SPRING CLASS SCHEDULE  (Five-Week Series, starting the week of April 16th), with locations in both SEATTLE & KIRKLAND, featuring lessons in: 

• "Tango'd Up in Blues" (All levels)
• Swing & Blues Foundations (Beg)
• Cross-step Waltz Innovations (Int/Adv)
• Night Club 2-Step (Int/Adv)
• Advanced concepts in framework for all levels of  dancers!

Join us for a FREE hour of music & dance practice:

Tuesday Night: Latin Sampler

Wednesday Night: Latin Sampler

LOCATION: China Harbor, 2040 Westlake Ave N., Seattle, WA (plentiful free parking)

DATES: Check the class schedule for the Tues/Wed lessons. The practices are on those days only.

TIME: 9:15-10:00pm (following the Roll Up The Rug lessons)

COST: FREE!

WORKSHOPS:

Check out our upcoming WORKSHOPS with locations in both SEATTLE & KIRKLAND:

• Sunday, July 1st, 3-7pm (Seattle): Uwe & Colleen present "Favorite Moves from their 2011 & 2012 Classes" Join Portland's top waltz instructors for a delightful afternoon of new waltz moves and combination! (Adv Beg/Int) SIGN UP TODAY FOR SPECIAL EARLY-BIRD PRICING

Sunday, July 1st, 2012:

Uwe & Colleen WALTZ Workshop

Featuring "The Best of Portland, 2011 & 2012"

CLICK HERE for details & Registration

• WHEN: Doors open at 2:45pm. Workshop runs from 3:00 - 7:00pm
• WHERE: Washington Hall, 153 14th Ave, Seattle
• COST: Through June 30th: $55 for full day (all 3 classes) or $20 per class (credit card or PayPal online; cash or check at the door only). $5.00 more at the door CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
• LEVEL: Designed for Int/Adv levels waltzers. No partner necessary.

Tuesday, July 3rd, 2012:

Ari & Whitney teach Blues at the Hood River "Reds, Whites, & Blues" Festival:

Join us July 3rd at the Springhouse Cellars Winery in Hood River for the opening night of their "Reds, Whites, & Blues Festival": Ari and Whitney will open the festival with a beginning blues dance workshop followed by an evening of live blues music featuring the Richard Wilkinsin Blues Band in beautiful outdoor, open-air courtyard of the winery. All levels welcome. No prior experience needed. Come alone, with a partner, or with a group of friends. No partner required.

• WHEN: Blues Workshop 5:45-7:00pm, Live music 7:00-11:00pm
• WHERE: Springhouse Cellars, 13 Railroad St, Hood River, OR.
• COST: $10 for workshop (cash or check at the door only)
• LEVEL: No experience needed

Join Ari & Whitney in PORTLAND, OREGON for three exciting Workshops:

Saturday, June 9th, 2012:

"The Art of Blues Dancing"

• WHEN: Doors open at 11:45am. Workshop runs from 12:00 - 4:00 pm.

• 12:00 - 1:20 pm: "Blues Foundations" (

  Pre-req: None)

• 1:20 - 2:40 pm

  : "Blues & the 'Conversation' of Dance"

  (

  Pre-req: 1st workshop)

• 2:40 - 4:00 pm: "Swinging the Blues"

  (

  Pre-req: first 2 workshops, or basic ECS)

In the first two classes, we’ll explore the foundations of blues dance, learn how to create “conversations” in our partnership (a skill that can easily translate to all dance styles), then wind it down with a mini-micro blues lesson to satisfy the soul. Major emphasis will be on lead/follow connection and partnering skills. A perfect introduction to west coast swing energy & dynamics for anyone taking Sunday's WCS workshop. The first two workshops are designed to be taken together as a bundle

• WHERE: Paradise Ballroom, 826 SE Belmont St. Portland OR.
• COST: Special Early-Bird pricing available (credit card or PayPal online; cash or check at the door only) CLICK HERE for more information & registration
• LEVEL: See class listing above for pre-requisites

 Seattle Spring Dance Classes (April - May)

For full class descriptions, see the "Class Descriptions" page

FIVE MONDAYS's:  (Apr 16-May 21, No class Apr 30)  PLEASE NOTE:  The MONDAY NIGHT classes are held at our new KIRKLAND Studio (Details sent upon registration)

MONDAY THEME:  "Introduction to dance and dance connection!",  CLASS LEVEL:  Beginning 

FIVE TUESDAY's:  (Apr 17-May 22, No class May 1), plus free practica until 10:00pm.  PLEASE NOTE:  The TUESDAY NIGHT classes are held at China Harbor (See directions below) 

TUESDAY THEME:  "Let's invent!",    CLASS LEVEL:  Intermediate  (some basic dance experience required)

• 8:15-9:15:  "Night Club 2-Step: Fun Combinations" - Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's unique library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S.
 
• 9:15-10:00: Join us for our Tuesday Night Dance Practice at China Harbor (FREE)  See UPCOMING DANCES for details.

FIVE WEDNESDAY's:  (Apr 18-May 23, No class May 2)  PLEASE NOTE:  The WEDNESDAY NIGHT classes are held at China Harbor! (Details sent upon registration)

WEDNESDAY THEME:  "Focus on Connection!",  CLASS LEVEL:  All Levels 

• 8:15-9:15:  "Traveling Blues" (movin' & groovin' on the floor) - Learn how to rotate, move, and stretch across the dance floor with higher energy traveling steps and combinations as you would see in "ballrooming" or "fusion tango" blues!  Great to take in conjunction with the 7pm "Tango'd Up in Blues" class.  CLICK HERE to see an example of the kind of fun and play you can have with travelin' blues.
 
• 9:15-9:45  Guided practice and social.
   

LOCATION:  

• All Monday classes will be held a private studio/residence in Kirkland (near Totem Lake).  Directions and parking details will be sent following registration.  Doors open at 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.

• 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 6:45. Come early to sign in, change shoes, stretch, warm up, etc.  China Harbor has a full bar and dinner menu as well. 

COST:
Each class session includes over 5 hrs of instruction, 2.5 hrs of guided practice, and admission to the Tuesday Night Dance Practice at China Harbor! 

• One class = $65        
• Two classes = $120  ($10 savings)  
• Three classes = $175  ($20 savings)
• Four classes = $230  ($30 savings)

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!