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Time for Family Fun |
Sapphire Ballroom News - November 2020 |
This month we are celebrating family in all its forms. Whether you’re talking about the people related to you biologically, emotionally, or spiritually, family are the people who make you who you are.
Yes, sometimes they drive you crazy, but sometimes they keep you sane in a crazy world. In all cases, they are worth celebrating. So, we’ve got an article about dance families, a family-fun special to share, and a playlist that’s all about the relationships that make our lives go.
Stay safe and keep dancing with those you love, in whatever way works for you.
PS - if you’re planning on expanding your family and havign a January/February wedding, now is the perfect time to schedule your wedding lessons - get in touch to get started!
Famous Dance Families
Family Fun Special - Just for the holidays
Sapphire Story - Brittany’s a new member of the Sapphire family
Family Dance Playlist - because we - are - fam-ily...
Upcoming Dance Classes, online and in-person
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Famous Dance Families
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Like lots of things, love of dance runs in families. It’s really pretty logical. If your parents love dance, you’re going to be exposed to more kinds of dancing as a kid, better quality and more interesting dancing as you get older, and have more support anytime you want to take dance classes. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that lots of really successful dancers come from dance families. Here are just a few:
 The Houghs: Derek and Julianne (brother and sister), and all their grandparents, parents, sisters, and more.
If you haven’t heard of Derek Hough, you need to go down that YouTube rabbit hole. I suggest you start here with a collaboration wth Lindsey Sterling. He’s been a “Pro” and is now a judge on Dancing with the Stars, a judge on World of Dance, and won a boat load of awards, including a Emmy for Choreography.
Although her career isn’t quite as shiny as Derek’s, Julianne Hough is just as successful a dancer, teacher, chooreographer, and performer. She actually predates her brother on DWTS, and won her first Mirror Ball Trophy before he even started on the show. She has been in several TV shows and movies, including the 2011 Footloose, been nominated for multiple Emmy's.
Both dancers are pop culture power houses thanks to their families.
 The Schwimmers: Buddy, Laurie, Benji, and Lacey (Dad, Mom, Brother, and Sister)
The Schwimmers’ claim to fame is in the Swing world. Buddy is frequently credited with inventing Nightclub 2-Step - how many people can say they invented a dance style? Buddy and wife Laurie were competitors in West Coast Swing, Hustle, and more. Both Lacey and Benji competed on So You Think You Can Dance, with Benji winning Season 2 and Lacey placing 4th on Season 3. Lacey went on to become a Pro on Dancing with the Stars, released a line of dancewear and now teaches with iHollywood Dance. Benji has won a huge number of dance competitions, including several US Open Swing Dance Championships and World Swing Dance Championships.
Here's a video of a rather young Benji and Lacey dancing West Coast Swing together.
 Astaires: Fred and Adele Astaire (Brother and Sister)
Adele and Fred Astaire began dancing together as children, travelling and dancing together throughout the early part of their lives. Fred almost quit dancing when Adele announced that she was retiring to live with her new husband after dancing with her brother for nearly 3 decades. But Fred eventually found a new place for himself in Hollywood, and a new partner: Ginger Rogers. Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be any footage of Fred and Adele dancing together. But you can see Fred here dancing with Ginger Rogers in the movie Top Hat.
See a short video about Fred and Adele from the BBC here.
There are of course bunches more, including Lindsay Arnold and her siblings Jensen, Brynley, and Rylee; Mark Ballas and his entire family; or the Fung Family including Victor Fung his parents, wife and children. And I can tell you I came from a more normal dance family - no celebrities or outstanding talents, just a good attitude and a love for social dance in many forms. But it was enough to bring us together over and over again, learning new things, and enjoying the journey.
PS - I haven’t gotten my kids interested in dancing yet, but there’s still time… I’m waiting until they become interested in dating to try again.
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Family Fun Special - Just for the Holidays
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 Do you have people coming to see you this holiday season? Family and friends who want to visit you and do special things and have fun together? What’s your plan? A trip to the movies or a big gathering at a local restaurant? Hmmm. Yeah, neither of those options seem … wise ... right now. You need an alternative.
Or are you stuck in town this year and don’t know what to do with yourself? Having friends over doesn’t seem exciting enough, or too much effort, or too much something. You need a new plan.
So, what can your family do together that’s fun, safe, and memorable? Bring them all out for a dance lesson! You will get to spend fun time together, move your bodies in a healthy way, and get out of your house for a while. Never danced before? We can absolutely help. It’s amazing how much easier dancing becomes when someone explains what to do before you have to do it.
This Holiday season, we are offering a Family Fun Special - an hour long lesson for up to 10 people at our studio in downtown Christiansburg for just $85.
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Part 1 - Your “Family”
Your family can be whomever you want it to be! Your soul sister, your best bros, your weird uncle, crazy cousins, groovy grandma - it’s up to you. |
Part 2 - The Dance Lesson
The lesson can include lots of possible dance styles including Line Dancing, Latin and Salsa, Swing, Tango, almost anything you can think of. If you don’t know what you want, no worries - we have ideas that will help, like the “we’re going to a wedding” combo of Hustle and Rumba, and the “we want to be able to dance to our favorite music” approach. For one lesson, we recommend sticking with 1 or 2 styles, so your brains don’t hurt afterward. If you want a longer lesson, or to come back for a second round - we can do that, too! |
Part 3 - Limit of 10 people
We have to limit the number of people in the studio for social distancing and other exposure considerations. But with a small group, you’re guaranteed lots of personal attention and custom lesson planning. Children are welcome, but kids usually get less out of the lessons than adults and teens, and they do count as part of the 10. If you have a group of 4 or less, we have a better deal for you - give us a call and we’ll get you set. |
Part 4 - At Sapphire Studio
Having the lesson in our studio means that you don’t have to tidy up your house or worry about germs being tracked in. We have convenient parking and are easy to find for everyone involved. |
This offer is available for a short time only and limited by studio and teacher availability. Reservations are first come, first serve. So if you have a particular time you want - don’t wait, contact us today: info@sapphiredance.com or 540-382-8782! We require 3 days notice for most reservations, but are willing to try and fulfill last minute requests.
Offer available
Thanksgiving: Tuesday, Nov 24 - Sunday, Nov 29, 2020, including Thanksgiving Day!
Christmas: Tuesday, Dec 22 - Saturday, Jan 2, 2021, including Christmas and New Year’s Eve!
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Sapphire Story - Brittney’s on again, off again road to dance
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In 2010 I started working at Virginia Tech. Dancing with the Stars had just started and I had been out of dance for around 8 yrs. I had seen Sapphire Ballroom but was too nervous to go on my own and didn't have much spending money. VT had a ballroom club that I both joined and eventually did my first and only competition with. I stuck with it for about a year, but the group just wasn't the same the next year, and when life got in the way, I didn’t go back.
Fast forward to 10 years later and I’m going through some hard times. Over the years, I had started a fitness journey to better myself and my health. I got an email from the new VT ballroom (https://www.facebook.com/BDatVT) guys and thought “hey why not give it another shot.” Dancing is my favorite form of exercise and has always been a way for me to get out of my own mind and to give me the physical activity I need.
I'm shy by nature though meeting me you'd never know it. I become an anxious mess around groups of people. So in I walk on that first day, with my nerves twitching, knowing good and well I’ll be at least 10 years older than everyone in that room.
As I look around thinking I could be some of these kids’ mother, in steps Debbi - the instructor from Sapphire Ballroom. And I’m relieved, I’m not the only older person there. As the semester rolled on, I got to know Debbi and John (another Sapphire Instructor) a lot better and started coming to the dance parties and Friday Beginner Workshops at Sapphire. I also started helping with some of the events Sapphire was at to help promote what Sapphire has to offer.
I love to dance and help others get dancing too; it helps with being nervous in front of people. I force myself into what I consider scary situations to overcome them. I’m not an instructor but I help anywhere I can, when I can, and try to just be that extra person when they need me. Sapphire has helped me come out of my shell more and they have also been a big source of support in my battles outside of dancing. Even if they don't know it, I’m very thankful to have them in my life and for them inviting me to be a part of the family.
So for anyone that loves to dance but is shy, or needs something to get your mind off things, or just get some physical activity, I encourage you to try Sapphire Ballroom out! With COVID, it’s a little harder to socialize in class, they are still worth the effort. If you're shy, the online classes are perfect until you get to know the great instructors and the awesome regulars. Even when I struggle, I’ve never felt judged or looked down on, nor have I seen anyone judging those that have “2 left feet.” There’s only love and support until you get into your own rhythm and feel comfortable in what you’re doing.
They don’t just teach one style of dance they teach just about every style that is a partner dance, the best part is you don’t have to have a partner! You will meet so many people through dance and learn there is a big community of dancers out there that you probably had no idea even existed.
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Upcoming Dance Classes: online and in-person
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Events are hosted by Sapphire Ballroom & Dance Center: online, at our studio in Christiansburg, or at the Blacksburg Community Center. Please check locations before traveling!
Taking online classes is affordable and easy, once you try it. You do not need a partner; you do not need a fancy space. You do not have to share your picture or video. Online events require a Zoom link (included below), but not a Zoom account.
In-person classes have maximum enrollments. To prevent being turned away from a full class, please register ahead of time by emailing us at info@SapphireDance.com or contacting the Blacksburg Community Center.
All group events and lessons cost $6-$15/person/hour. Visit our Square Store to pay online for classes and private lessons.
More information available on our webpage or Facebook page.
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Intro to Samba - Stationary Samba Walks
Samba What's Next Workshop
Monday, November 2, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Samba Walks are one of the quintessential Samba moves. We will be starting with the ones that stay put - makes them easier to pin down.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing fast Latin style dances. Samba experience a benefit, but not required.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Nightclub 2-Step with some "swinging" Syncopation
Nightclub 2-Step What's Next Workshop
Monday, November 2, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
There's a great big group of gorgeous songs waiting for you to dance to them. You just need to learn the tweek that makes Nightclub 2 work with a 6 beat base. "Nights in White Satin" - here we come!
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing basic moves in Nightclub including one rotation. You do not need to have experience with the timing we will be talking about in class.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Line Dancing With Lisa
Line Dance Workshop
Tuesday, November 3, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
With an exciting combination of beginner friendly and more challenging dances, as well as tips on how to jazz up any choreography, this workshop will get your toes tapping in no time.
- Early registration required for in person attendance! (Email us now!)
Prerequisite: None! Beginner and advanced line dancers will find lots to love at this workshop.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Step into Swing Dance
Level 1 Swing Group Class
Tuesdays, November 3 - November 10, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Never danced before but want to try that classic, groovy, fun dance style? This class is perfect for you!
Swing has been a fan-favorite for decades, so it's not surprising that it can be do to music from the 1940's right up through today. So, come on out and learn to dance to the music you listen to.
Maximum enrollment = 10.
Please register ahead of time with the Blacksburg Community Center, Activity #112100-S1
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: None! This is just for beginners, just for you!
Location: Blacksburg Community Center
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Learn to Country Two-Step
Level 1 Country Two-Step Group Class
Thursdays, November 5 - November 12, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Country Two-Step is a rollercoaster in boots, an adventure on the dance floor!
Frequently characterized as Swing that travels, CTS will get you moving around the floor at highway speeds, all while looking as cool as a cucumber.
Maximum enrollment = 10.
Please register ahead of time with the Blacksburg Community Center, Activity #112100-C1
Prerequisite: This isn't the easiest dance style to start with, but we will start at the beginning and break everything down into manageable steps. No prerequisite is required, just a heathy sense of adventure.
Location: Blacksburg Community Center
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Tango and Rumba - Bring out your drama!
Tango and Rumba Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, November 6, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Intro to Samba - Bota Fogos
Samba What's Next Workshop
Monday, November 9, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Kind of like Travelling Twinkles, but not really, Bota Fogos are a uniquely Samba move. We will try them in place and traveling, in Promenade and Outside Partner.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing fast Latin style dances. Samba experience beneficial, but not required.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Exercises to Improve Balance
Class-By-Request What's Next Workshop
Monday, November 9, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This exercise class for all levels is specifically geared towards improving your balance while dancing. Of course, that also means improving your balance while standing and walking, which really can't be a bad thing. You will sweat, you will probably complain, but we all do, and keep coming back for more.
Prerequisite: No prerequisites - you just need to be willing to put the work into improving yourself as a dancer.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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That's the Tortoise and the Hair in dance terms.
Rumba and Single Time Swing Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, November 13, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Coming later this month:
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More Charleston!
Lindy Hop What's Next Workshop
Monday, November 16, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
More solo Charleston means more fun, more sweat, more hopping!!!
In this class we will start talking about putting the Charleston into your swing and your partnership.
Prerequisite: Participants should have seen the Charleston Kick basic before.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Intro to Samba - Crisscross, No Apple Sauce
Samba What's Next Workshop
Monday, November 16, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Crisscross Bota Fogos and Crisscross Voltas are (surprisingly) not as hard to dance as they look. We will share the secret sauce for making them work individually and together. (Spoiler - I already showed you part of it!)
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing fast Latin style dances. Samba experience beneficial, but not required.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Line Dancing With Lisa
Line Dance Workshop
Tuesday, November 17, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
With an exciting combination of beginner friendly and more challenging dances, as well as tips on how to jazz up any choreography, this workshop will get your toes tapping in no time.
- Early registration required for in person attendance! (Email us now!)
Prerequisite: None! Beginner and advanced line dancers will find lots to love at this workshop.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Fast and Fun - with a side of spins.
Single Time Swing and Salsa Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, November 20, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Foxy - It's Fox Trot for wacky songs
Fox Trot What's Next Workshop
Monday, November 23, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Foxy is a great variation for songs that sound like they should be a regular Fox Trot but are either too slow or too fast. It's simple, and we will explain it all for you.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing Fox Trot. Foxy experience is not expected.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Intro to Samba - REVIEW! and maybe something new...
Samba What's Next Workshop
Monday, November 23, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
This might be last Samba Workshop in this series. (Speak up if you want more!!) So we're going to spend some time reviewing and solidifying and answering questions. So bring your questions and we'll try to get them sorted.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing fast Latin style dances. Samba experience beneficial, but not required.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Line Dancing With Lisa
Line Dance Workshop
Tuesday, December 1, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
With an exciting combination of beginner friendly and more challenging dances, as well as tips on how to jazz up any choreography, this workshop will get your toes tapping in no time.
- Early registration required for in person attendance! (Email us now!)
Prerequisite: None! Beginner and advanced line dancers will find lots to love at this workshop.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Sassy and Classic
Salsa and Waltz Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, December 4, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Exercises to Improve Balance
Class-By-Request What's Next Workshop
Monday, December 7, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This exercise class for all levels is specifically geared towards improving your balance while dancing. Of course, that also means improving your balance while standing and walking, which really can't be a bad thing. You will sweat, you will probably complain, but we all do, and keep coming back for more.
Prerequisite: No prerequisites in dance ability or fitness level - you just need to be willing to put the work into improving yourself as a dancer.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Everybody Does the Cha Cha Cha
Cha Cha What's Next Workshop
Monday, December 7, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing the basics of Cha Cha, including the regular and progressive basics, a variety of breaks, and switch turns.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Waltz and Bachata - two great dances for absolute beginners!
Waltz and Bachata Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, December 11, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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More Charleston!
Lindy Hop What's Next Workshop
Monday, December 14, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
More solo Charleston means more fun, more sweat, more hopping!!!
What specifically will we be doing? No idea, but I guarantee there will be silliness.
Prerequisite: Participants should have seen the Charleston Kick basic before.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Rev Up Your Rumba
Rumba What's Next Workshop
Monday, December 14, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing Rumba basics including boxes, turns, and walks (essentially Level 1 material).
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Line Dancing With Lisa
Line Dance Workshop
Tuesday, December 15, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
With an exciting combination of beginner friendly and more challenging dances, as well as tips on how to jazz up any choreography, this workshop will get your toes tapping in no time.
- Early registration required for in person attendance! (Email us now!)
Prerequisite: None! Beginner and advanced line dancers will find lots to love at this workshop.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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Here comes the sassy, swishy fun.
Bachata and Triple Time Swing Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, December 18, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
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All of our classes are listed at http://www.sapphiredance.com/GroupLessons.php.
For more information about anything or to register for any of these classes, please email us at info@sapphiredance.com.
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Thanks for reading; we hope you found something you liked.
Until we see you again, happy dancing! |
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