www.positivelyballroom.com
If you have a question not answered here, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
The term “Ballroom” is the oldest general term used to describe a group of dances that share common dance techniques and styling. It is also commonly associated with the term “partner” dancing, where the partners observe the roles of a “leader” and a “follower.”
The term "Social Dancing" is known by most people as simply "Partner Dancing" or dancing for fun. Ryan always perceived social dancing as an art form, not only because it is visually beautiful, but as something that defines generations of people and how they interact together. Dancing at one time was a major part of society as a whole. Everyone knew how to dance and it was used as a way to allow people to interact together in a social environment. Good references to this are movies like "Pride and Prejudice" or other period pieces of this type.
Social dancing generally means that the dance style focuses on sociability and socializing. Social dances can be danced with a variety of partners and still be led and followed in a relaxed, easy atmosphere. Social dancing does not require the time that competitive dancers have to commit due to the activity being more for fun and enjoyment.
Competitive dancing is a popular, widespread activity in which competitors perform dances in any of several permitted dance styles before a common group of judges. Competitive dancing requires dedication as many months may be spent practicing dance and developing dance routines.
Our goal at Positively Ballroom is to prepare you to dance with confidence in any social situation. Our curriculum consists of several basic dances that will allow you to dance anywhere, with anyone, on any occasion! In forming my curriculum, I elected to break down dances into three categories for easy classification. The first category "Classic Ballroom " includes the Waltz, Foxtrot, and Swing. These three dances form the backbone of various dance techniques used in social dancing and are also well known to the American social scene. The second category is the “Latin Dances", which include the Tango, Rumba and Cha-Cha. These three dances share much of the same styling, which includes “Latin Hip motion” and also are considered a little more dramatic than dances in other categories. The last category is the “Club Dances", which include the Carolina Shag, Salsa and Texas Two-step. These dances are some of the favorites for the club going crowd. These are considered some of the most popular dances that we offer in our curriculum.
A group lesson consists of several students learning from one instructor in a social environment. Our group lessons cover a wide level of dancing providing all levels of students with the opportunity to join our classes. Group classes are scheduled for an hour. Check out our online class section to see the upcoming month's schedule. Group dance lessons require a Group class membership. Purchase of a Group class membership allows the student to register and attend as many classes during a month as they wish. Information about Group Class pricing can be found on our "About Page."
Private lessons consist of one student or a couple working with one instructor. These lessons provide the most benefit and ease for learning to dance because all material is catered to the student’s learning ability, desire and goals. On occasion, an assistant may join the instructor to help with demonstration and coaching, depending on the needs of the students. Private dance lessons are scheduled at the student’s convenience, Monday – Saturday, based on time slot availability. A lesson can be scheduled in thirty (30) or forty-five (45) minute sessions. Information about Private Lesson pricing can be found on our "About Page."
A Partner is not required for any of our classes, however, it does enhance the experience. For Group Classes, individuals without partners are paired up for and also will work with the instructor during class.
No specific dress code is required for our studio, so dress as comfortably as you wish. Wear something that won't inhibit your movements! Special shoes are not needed for our classes, though it is a good idea to consider wearing comfortable shoes that will allow you to turn on the ball of the foot. We recommend shoes with a leather sole, which will work well on most surfaces. No sneakers or rubber -soled shoes. For the ladies we suggest a low heel shoe with a back.
Our Program is offered at these fine Dance Studios:
Cabarrus Dance Academy
2810 Poplar Tent Rd, Suite 100
Concord, NC 28027
In studio hours:
Saturdays: 4:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Current Group Class Schedule
Classes also available by Appointment
Monday - Friday 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Click here for directions
Masterpiece Dance Studio
14015-H East Independence Blvd.
Indian Trail, NC 28079
In studio hours:
Classes at this location by Appointment Only
Available Monday - Friday 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Click here for directions
Yes, drop in and see us! We certainly do not mind if someone would like to observe a class. You are even welcomed to join in the class to get a better feel for what we do.
Click here for our current group class schedule.
Or you can contact us for more information.
We require a 24 hour notification if you intend to miss a scheduled lesson or you may be charged.
In the event of inclement weather, please contact Ryan by phone or e-mail to determine if classes will still be held.
We offer a fantastic "Special Day Package" that includes 2 private lessons. If you feel that a few more lessons are required, we can add additional lessons until you feel that you are ready for your big day. We can also include friends and family if you want. Contact us for more information and to schedule your first lesson.
We are glad to provide you with a list of great songs to match your special event. Do you have songs already picked out? We will suggest dances that match your song tempo, personal style and comfort level.
Your first dance together as husband and wife should suit your personality as a couple and the tone you want to set for your wedding reception. For traditionalists and romantics, an elegant waltz or foxtrot might be the dance for you. If you're unconventional, an upbeat swing or a sexy tango will let you show your guests just what you're all about. Whatever your style, we can help you select the right music (if you haven't chosen a song already) and the right dance to fit your personal style.
Yes, we can teach you dance steps that are easy to learn, and also fun to perform. After all, it is important that you to look great on the dance floor.
I took my first Ballroom class in 2002 and found that due to my experience in other areas like music, free style dancing and martial arts, I learned the basics very quickly. I moved in to competing and performing very quickly as well. I worked with various coaches for the next several years, but one really changed my perception of Ballroom Dancing. My partner and I were having a difficult time with a routine and we just could not seem to get it together. My coach looked at me and said, “You are leaving her behind, because you are dancing for yourself. You should never out dance your partner.”
This one insight made me really think about why people enjoy dancing together – they do it because it is fun. If I am not aware of what my partner is doing, I am truly dancing alone. That is not really a lot of fun for my partner or me. Ballroom dancing is about partnership, that connection between two people, so I decided that night to approach dancing in different way. This approach became my personal philosophy and it still stands today as my reason for dancing and teaching: to have fun.
I introduced the Positively Ballroom Program at my first studio in 2006 and expanded to two studios in 2009. We currently maintain studios in Indian Trail and Concord, but are always looking to expand if the right opportunity comes along.
If you have a question not answered here, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
Click here to read what people are saying about Positively Ballroom