Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What shoes should I wear to class?
It is best to wear dance shoes that are made specifically for this purpose. Dance shoes are lighter, more comfortable, flexible, and have a leather suede bottom that allow you to turn, glide, and spin without injuring your muscle and joints, but have some grip that prevent you from slipping and sliding around the dance floor. Local shops that sell dance shoes are Experience dance shoes, located just under the Alaskan viaduct, Centerstage in the U-district, and Arts dance shoes in Kirkland. There are many online sources that sell good cheap shoes. We can assist you in finding a shoe within your budget and needs.
If you don’t have the money to buy dance shoes, you can wear sneakers, as long as they don’t have a dark sole. No dark soled shoes will be allowed as they leave marks on the floor. Bring a pair of clean socks, just in case your sneakers end up being to “sticky” for the floor. Or better yet, take a pair of comfortable shoes you already have and have the soles sueded. Your local shoe repair shop can do this for less than $20.
Q: What should I wear and/or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes that do not restrict your movement. Athletic wear is recommended. Bring your own water/drinks, or stop by market right next to the studio to purchase before class. Water is also available for purchase at the studio for $1.
Bring your payment with you to class, if you did not pay online - cash/check only. No credit or debit cards are being accepted. There are plenty of cash machines in the capital hill area, if you need to stop for cash.
Q: Do I need a dance partner?
Absolutely not. We rotate partners during class. We generally recommend rotating partners even if you come with your own partner, so that you get a chance to practice with different leads/follows. Sticking with just 1 partner may actually slow your progress.
Q What do you charge for private lessons?
Privates range from $60-$75 an hour, depeding on how many classes you buy, and if the lesson is for 1 or 2 people. Please contact us for more specific and complete details.
Q Do I Need to register for the whole series?
No, but it is recommended. You save money buying the series. All of our classes are structured so that one class builds upon the next, but you can generally catch up if you miss a class because we review much of the material. However, no make-ups are allowed.
Q Do you teach in Spanish?
During group classes, our instructors teach primarily in English. But to Spanish-speaking-only students, we of course, can and will take the time to translate the instructions into Spanish.
Q What is your refund policy / cancellation policy?
There are no refunds or make-ups for missed group classes. Cancellations for private lessons or special arrangement classes will only be allowed with advanced 24 hour notice, and must be made up within a certain time frame.
Q I’m not sure what class to take.
If you’re undecided between two levels, make arrangements to come a few minutes early and one of our instructors will take you for a “test spin”. We’ll make sure you’re in the most appropriate class for your skill level.
Q Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes, we offer gift certificates in whatever amount you choose. They can be used for either private or group classes. Please contact us to make a purchase.
Q Do you offer wedding/quincenera packages?
Yes, we do! We can teach you choreography to one song or several songs of your choosing or we can help you select a song(s). We can even DJ at your event, as well as provide sound equipment!
Q I am interested in the performance team. How can I try out for the performance team?
We get lots of inquiries about joining a performance team. Being on a performance team is fun, provides opportunity to travel and dance, and helps you become a better dancer, faster! If you have not yet come to any of our group classes, we recommend that you stop by one of our group classes within your “level,” so we can assess your dancing level and goals. Sometimes, we recommend attending the group classes first, to help prepare you for the performance team, but if we feel that you are ready, we will certainly give you the fast pass in so you can start right away. There are monthly dues involved with the performance team. Practices are generally once a week for 2 hour sessions. A minimum commitment of 6 months is expected.