Can I learn to dance?

Yes. If you can walk, you can dance. Age or experience do not limit who can dance. You can move from the most basic of steps to competitions if you desire.


Do I need a partner?

No. You do not need a partner to learn how to dance. Group classes rotate partners to improve everyone's skill and private lessons feature a professional to keep you on the right foot from the beginning.


What dances do you teach?

A full variety of dances is offered from the social to competitive levels:

East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Salsa, Merengue, Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz, Cha Cha, Rumba, Samba, Mambo, Night Club Two Step, Country Two Step, Line Dances, etc.


How long will it take?

Dancing can be a sport and therefore requires practice and repetition. Everyone learns at a different rate depending upon how often they practice the movements and how much technique is introduced. Once someone creates a muscle memory the learning curve accelerates rapidly.

Dancing is separated into five main areas of study:

Figure - Foot placement
Timing - Using the rhythm of the music
Partnership - Lead/Follow easily with a partner
Appearance - Appropriate style characteristics of a dance
Continuity - Smooth transitions from one pattern to the next

The National Dance Council of America lists the following time allotments for a first time student to feel good with the basics. 10-20 minutes to accomplish each area of a single pattern. Each pattern will take between one to two hours as a foundation. Most people gain confidence with knowledge of five patterns per dance. Consider five to ten hours per dance as a comfortable bench mark to begin dancing.


How much do lessons cost?

There are different formats of instruction (Group & Private) as well as various locations which both effect the price of lessons. Please visit the Lessons section of this site for more detailed information.


What is the difference between private lessons and group classes?

Private lessons provide one-on-one attention to your dancing catered to your personal goals. They are also flexible with scheduling. Group classes feature a pre-selected time and material. These are great for dancers on a budget since they are usually 1/4 the cost of a private lesson. Current classes are listed on the Lessons section of this site.


Do I need private instruction?

It is recommended that all students take a combination of group classes and private lessons. New patterns and concepts can be introduced in group settings and then refined with private instruction. Private lessons expedite the learning process. Visit the Specials section of this site to ENROLL.


What should I wear?

Comfort is the first priority. Something that allows you to move your arms and legs easily is suggested. Most people wear clothing that would be considered business casual.


Can I compete?

Yes. There is a category for everyone to compete from the "Newcomer/Novice" to "Open Professional" with another amateur partner (Am-Am) or professional instructor (Pro-Am). Many age and/or experience divisions are common.


Do I need to have rhythm?

You already have rhythm. It may not be realized yet, but with trained guidance your natural rhythm will surface. The rhythm is the heartbeat of a song, so the fact that you are reading this is proof that you have rhythm within.


What if I have two left feet?

If you are considered to have two left feet, partner dancing was created for you. Partner dancing is really about relaxing and enjoying time together. It eliminates the need for expertise in solo "club" dancing.


Do I have to already be a dancer to learn partner dancing?

No. As a matter of fact many "Dancers" have to retrain their bodies to partner dance. Partner dancing is most commonly referred to as "Social dancing" which is clearly a more accurate description. Social dancing is about having a good time and not usually performing.


How do I get started?

Getting started is simple. If you do not know what dances interest you, an "Introductory Special" is perfect. In an "Introductory Special" you will be introduced to the most common social dances to allow you to make an informed decision. Four lessons comprise the "Introductory Special" at half-price! Visit the Specials section of this site to for more details and/or ENROLL.

You can also call 206-577-1657 / 888-324-2924 or send an e-mail to randy@recreationcreation.com to set up an appointment.


Do you offer any discounts?

Yes. First time clients, students and wedding couples can take advantage of current specials. Please visit the Specials section of this site for more detailed information.


Where can I use what I learn?

Partner dancing is one of the most utilized skills people learn. You can dance anywhere there is music (Or just two people). The most common locations are dance clubs, weddings, parties, and conventions.


How many partner dances are there?

There are many different partner dances. The following six dances are the most prominent socially: Foxtrot, Waltz, Tango, Swing, Cha Cha and Salsa.


What dances are the most useful?

Which ones would you use the most? That depends on your personal musical preference and social habits. Where you like to go plays a very large part in what dances would make sense for you.


Can my child begin dancing?

Yes. Many children begin dancing as a form of learning etiquette at an early age. It is recommended to introduce them to dancing sometime after they reach five years of age. Dancing builds social skills and confidence that is simply priceless throughout a lifetime.


What is the age range of students?

Students as young as 5 years of age to over 70 years of age enjoy dancing equally. Although group classes are open to all ages, the average range is between 20 to 70 years of age.


Can I learn a dance for a wedding?

Yes. Receptions are one the most common reasons people research dance lessons. It is very rewarding and satisfying to have the ability to dance when someone asks. Please review the Introductory Special on the Lessons section of this site for more information.

First dance choreography requests are also very customary. This is a definite way to spice up your wedding day. Be sure to select a song before your first lesson (And bring it with you if you can). Please visit the Specials section of this site for more information.


What is the line of dance (LOD)?

The "Line of Dance" is the direction of travel when dancing. Progressive dances move counter-clockwise around the outside of a dance floor or down "Line of Dance."


What is "Smooth?" "Rhythm?" "Latin?" "Standard?"

These terms are usually used in reference to competition style dancing.


"Smooth" refers to the progressive American style dances:

Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot and Viennese Waltz.

"Rhythm" refers to the spot dances of the American style:

Cha Cha, Rumba, East Coast Swing, Bolero and Mambo.

"Latin" refers to the spot dances of the International style:

Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive.

"Standard" refers to the progressive International style dances:

Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot and Quickstep.