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Ballroom  -  LatinSwing  -  Variety  -  Technique

Please call us at 540-382-8782 with any questions.

No partner necessary. Registration and fees vary by location. Please check the Registration Information page for details. Group classes are 4 lesson-hours long. Most classes meet for 1 hour per week.

Workshops are classes that require only a 1-day commitment. These can vary in length from 1-3 hours, and vary in skill level necessary to participate.

Prerequisite classes can be replaced by private lessons. Contact us for details or to schedule your private lessons: 540-382-8782, info@sapphiredance.com.

 


Ballroom Classes


Essential Ballroom

Learn grace and ease on the dance floor! Starting with the basics, we will introduce you to the concepts of lead-and-follow, dance frame, and musicallity, while covering several patterns in the following smooth-style dances: Waltz, Tango, and Fox Trot.
We offer Levels 1-6 Essential Ballroom in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 
Level 1
Prerequisite: None - Excellent for Beginners!
        Mondays, 2/22 - 3/22, 8:00 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Jae   Registration Details, Note: No class on Mar 8

        Tuesdays, 2/23 - 3/23, 7:15 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Lane   Registration Details, Note: No class on Mar 9

        Tuesdays, 4/06 - 4/27, 6:15 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Lane   Registration Details

Level 2
Prerequisite: L1 Essential Ballroom
        Wednesdays, 2/24 - 3/24, 6:00 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Debbi   Registration Details, Note: No class on Mar 10


Argentine Tango

The free spirited Argentine Tango was developed in the ghettos and brothels of Buenos Aires during the latter part of the nineteenth century. This dramatic dance has since hit North America, as well as the rest of the world, and grown to be a favorite on dance floors today!
We offer up to Level 4 Argentine Tango in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 
Level 2
Prerequisite: Level 1 Argentine Tango
        Wednesdays, 2/24 - 3/24, 8:00 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Lane   Registration Details, Note: No class on Mar 10


Fox Trot

One of the standards of the Ballroom world, Fox Trot is introduced in the Essential Ballroom classes. Its slow saunter makes you feel care-free and ready to skip and glide across the floor. Frequently done to big band favorites, Fox Trot makes a great wedding dance.
We offer Levels 1-6 Fox Trot in Essential Ballroom group classes and in workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 


Quickstep

On your mark, get set, DANCE! Get ready to fly across the floor in the fun, fast-paced world of Quickstep. We'll cover a selection of traveling and cornering steps which will leave you prepared for take-off.
We offer Levels 1-4 Quickstep in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 


Tango

One of the standards of the Ballroom world, Tango is introduced in the Essential Ballroom classes. The staccato timing and stalking grace of Tango create a passionate energy perfect for avid dancers.
We offer Levels 1-6 Tango in Essential Ballroom group classes and in workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 


Viennese Waltz

Get swept up in a whirlwind! This fast, traveling dance will intoxicate you with its constant rotation as you glide across the floor.
We offer up to Level 4 Viennese in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 
Level 3
Prerequisite: Level 2 Viennese Waltz
        Weekender, 3/27 - 3/28, 2:00-4:00 p, Sapphire Studio, Debbi   Registration Details


Waltz

One of the standards of the Ballroom world, Waltz is introduced in the Essential Ballroom classes. The light and airy grace of Waltz will have you gliding across the floor - whirling like you're in a classic romantic movie!
We offer Levels 1-6 Waltz in Essential Ballroom group classes and in workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 

Latin Classes


Essential Latin

Experience the romance of Latin dance!
In these classes, we will cover the basics plus several patterns in Rumba, Merengue, and Cha-cha. We’ll also learn how to create the dynamic look and flirtatious style of Latin dances. We offer Levels 1-6 Essential Latin in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 
Level 1
A prefect class for beginners! Prerequisite: None
        Wednesdays, 2/24 - 3/24, 7:00 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Debbi   Registration Details, Note: No class on Mar 10

        Mondays, 4/05 - 4/26, 6:00 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Jae   Registration Details


Bolero

Bolero is a beautiful and dramatic dance, characterized by its smooth styling and “drop & drift” action. Testing our control and balance, this dance is suited for slower Rumba rhythms.
We offer up to Level 4 Bolero in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 


Cha Cha

One of the fundamental Latin dances, students first encounter in Cha Cha the Essential Latin series of classes. Fast and sassy, Cha Cha is an energetic, sexy dance which works well with hip hop, country, and classic rock as well as traditional Latin music.
We offer Levels 1-6 Cha Cha in Essential Latin group classes and in workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 


International Rumba

A slow and passionate dance, International Rumba shares many figures with its American cousin, but has a style and grace all its own.
We offer Levels 1-2 International Rumba in workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 


Night Club 2-Step

Looking for something interesting to do to all those slow songs at wedding or office parties? Here's your dance. Night Club 2 is a slow, romantic dance suitable for proms, banquets, weddings (especially the First Dance), and any other special occasion.
We offer Levels 1-6 Night Club 2 in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 


Rumba

One of the fundamental Latin dances, students first encounter in Rumba the Essential Latin series of classes. Slow and romantic, Rumba is a luxurious dance which spans music styles. It also makes a great first dance for a wedding couple.
We offer Levels 1-6 Rumba in Essential Latin group classes and in workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 
Upper Level Workshop
Receive a one-night blast of information in this workshop! Prerequisite: varies - see description
Level 4-5 Rumba
“Dance with me, make me sway” with a combination of Inside Turn from Box, Closed Cuban Walks, Progressive Rocks, Sitting Butterfly, Peek-A-Boo, Open Cuban Walks, & Solo Switch Turns. Dancers should already know Rumba Levels 1-3: Box, Rotating Box, Ladies Underarm Turn Right, Fifth Position Breaks, Extended Box, Side Breaks, Cross Body Lead, Open Break and Underarm Turn, Cross Over Breaks, & Outside Breaks.
        Monday, 3/22, 8:00 pm, Sapphire Studio, Lane   Registration Details

Level 5-6 Rumba
It’s time to let your passion run wild as we explore the dance of Luuuuuuve. The music will move you through the Peek-A-Boo, Open Cuban Walks, Solo Switch Turns (single & continuous), Left Side-Pass, Right-Side Pass, R-L-R Switch Turns. Rated PG-13 for romantic content. ;^) Students should be comfortable with Levels 1-4 including pre-requisites listed for previous Rumba workshops plus Inside Turn from Box, Closed Cuban Walks, Progressive Rocks, & Sitting Butterfly.
        Monday, 4/05, 8:00 pm, Sapphire Studio, Lane   Registration Details

Rumba Technique
You asked for it - You got it! In response to several requests that we spend more time in higher level classes working purely on technique, we’re adding this Workshop at the end of our Rumba sequence and a similar one at the beginning of the Swing sequence - Let us know which spot you like better. In this workshop, we’ll focus on musicality and rhythm, Latin motion, refining turn technique, and keeping connection. If you want to have Rumba Rhythm, don’t miss out on this workshop!
Dancers do not need to have taken the previous Rumba workshops to benefit from this workshop, though you should already know Rumba Levels 1-3: Box, Rotating Box, Ladies Underarm Turn Right, Fifth Position Breaks, Extended Box, Side Breaks, Cross Body Lead, Open Break and Underarm Turn, Cross Over Breaks, & Outside Breaks.
        Monday, 4/19, 8:00 pm, Sapphire Studio, Lane   Registration Details


Salsa

Learn the hottest dance around! Kick up your heels and make sparks fly as you spin and shine on the dance floor. This fast, sassy dance is the epitome of the Latin dance-club experience. We offer Levels 1-6 Salsa in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 
Level 1
We recommend that dancers take Level 1 Essential Latin before taking Salsa. Prerequisite: None
        Mondays, 2/22 - 3/22, 7:15 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Jae   Registration Details, Note: No class on Mar 8

        Mondays, 4/05 - 4/26, 7:00 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Jae   Registration Details


Samba

Samba is an exotic, fast-paced dance based on Brazilian rhythms and sporting a look and style unlike any other Latin dance.
We offer up to Level 4 Samba in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 

Swing Classes


Essential Swing

Get your groove on with this up-beat and popular dance class! Starting with the basics of Single-Time Swing, East Coast Swing, and Hustle, these classes will get you "swinging" with some of the most versatile styles of dancing around.
We offer Levels 1-6 Essential Swing in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 
Level 1
A great place to Start! Prerequisite: None
        Tuesdays, 2/23 - 3/23, 8:15 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Lane   Registration Details, Note: No class on Mar 9

        Wednesdays, 4/07 - 4/28, 7:00 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Debbi   Registration Details

Level 2
Prerequisite: L1 Essential Swing
Formerly a CBR.
        Mondays, 2/22 - 3/22, 6:00 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Jae   Registration Details, Note: No class on Mar 8


Carolina Shag

Who doesn't love Beach Music? Wouldn't you love to be able to dance to it? Not covered in the regular Swing Classes, Carolina Shag is great for beach music and is all about fancy feet. The material will mostly be lead/follow patterns, with only a few "mirror patterns."
We offer up to Level 4 Ca. Shag in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 
Level 1
Prerequisite: Previous Swing dance experience suggested.
        Wednesdays, 4/07 - 4/28, 6:00 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Debbi   Registration Details


East Coast Swing

Typically introduced in the Essential Swing Series, East Coast Swing is done to bouncy or groovy rock n' roll, new wave, and up-beat blues. These classes/workshops will talk about how to get that swingin' style as well as the turns and timing changes which make ECSwing the big daddy of swing styles.
We offer Levels 1-6 East Coast in Essential Swing group classes and in workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 
Upper Level Workshop
Prerequisite: Varies - See description.
Level 3-4 Swing (ECS & STS)
Like getting 2 for the price of 1? Get some moves to use in 2 dances, East Coast Swing & Single Time Swing, all in 1 workshop as we start mixing slows with quicks and come up with some really versatile dancing. We’ll be jiving and wailing with Alternating Inside Turns, American Turn, Handshake to Arm Slide, 4 Walks/4 Kicks, Fake Throw Out, Continuous American Turn, Parallel Breaks, and Neckloop (to Double Overhead).
You should already be familiar with (in both dances!) the Basic, Inside and Outside UA Turn, Basic in Closed Position (with and without rotation), Hammerlock, Cuddle, Belt Turn, Whip-In, and Throw Out.
        Monday, 3/15, 8:00 pm, Sapphire Studio, Staff   Registration Details

Level 4-5 Swing (ECS & STS)
We will be working double duty again with a combination of Fake Throw Out, Egg Beater (Continuous American Turn), Parallel Breaks, Neck Loop (Head Loop), Lindy Circle, Peek-A-Boo, Sliding Doors, Hen Peck and Tuck Turn (from closed position).
You should already be comfortable with Basic, Outside and Inside UA Turns, Belt Turn, Basic in closed (with and without rotation), Hammerlock, Cuddle, Whip In, Throw Out, Alternating Inside Turns, Handshake Tuck Turn (with Free Spin), Handshake to Arm Slide, & 4 Walks/ 4 Kicks.
        Monday, 3/29, 8:00 pm, Sapphire Studio, Debbi   Registration Details

Level 5-6 Swing (ECS & STS)
Get into the groove with one more crack at the parallel universes of Single Time and Triple Time Swing. (If you behave, you might even get to see Double time!) We’ll make one more super pattern featuring Lindy Circle, Peek-A-Boo, Sliding Doors, Hen Peck and Tuck Turn (from closed position) Shadow Catch with Wrist Spin, Whip, and Whip with Outside Turn (maybe Whip with Inside Turn). You should already be comfortable with Basic, Outside and Inside UA Turns, Belt Turn, Basic in closed (with and without rotation), Hammerlock, Cuddle, Whip In, Throw Out, Alternating Inside Turns, Handshake Tuck Turn (with Free Spin), Handshake to Arm Slide, & 4 Walks/ 4 Kicks.
        Monday, 4/12, 8:00 pm, Sapphire Studio, Debbi   Registration Details


Hustle

Get down and boogie - Disco Fever is still raging and there's nothing like Hustle to get you groovin' and movin'. Typically introduced in the Essential Swing Series, 4-Count Hustle is done to faster music and danced with a steady, driving rhythm. Not covered in Essential Swing, 3-Count Hustle speeds the steps up for slower music and adds some syncopation to the rhythm. These classes/workshops will cover both styles as well as the turns, turns, and more turns which made the Disco Inferno Hot! (4-week Classes focus more on 3-Count, while workshops address both styles equally.)
 


Lindy Hop

Any Hep Cat can tell you – this dance is smooth and sophisticated! Lindy Hop is a flashy swing dance often shown in movies and commercials. While there are many different types and styles of Lindy today, we will focus on a slotted 8-count dance with a healthy dose of 6-count mixed.
We offer up to Level 4 Lindy Hop in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 


West Coast Swing

Slinky, sassy, and sexy - what more can you ask for in a dance? Not covered in the regular Swing Classes, West Coast is a type of swing that's all about the attitude.
We offer Levels 1-6 West Coast in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 

Country Classes


Country Line Dance

Learn to dance the Cowboy Way! Country line dance is an easy and fun way to get your feet moving and your toes tapping. As sassy or as reserved as you decide to make it, this “solo” style of dancing gives you the moves and then the freedom to let your own personality shine through.
 


Country Two-Step

Country two-step is a fast-paced dance that really travels around the floor, and is all about turning the girl. So, if you like to spin or be spun, this dance will knock your socks off! Boots and Hats not required.
We offer up to Level 4 Two-Step in group classes and workshops, but private lessons can continue even further. Don't see the level you're looking for? Check out the Class-By-Request listings.
 
8-Week Intensive
Prerequisite: Level 4 Essential, Prowess with Chaine Turns, and Level 1 Country Two-Step
        Mondays, 2/08 - 4/05, 7:00 pm, Sapphire Studio, Linda   Registration Details, Note: No class on Mar 8

Level 1
Some prior partner-dance expereince suggested. Prerequisite: None
        Tuesdays, 4/06 - 4/27, 8:15 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Lane   Registration Details


Dancing to Country Music

Get your hat on and your boots scootin'. Country dancing isn't just for cowboys anymore. This class will cover some of the following styles: Two-Step, Cha Cha, Waltz, East Coast Swing, and West Coast Swing - all danced to country music. Boots and Hats not required.
 

Variety Classes


"Steppin' Up" Variety Class

In this class, we will reinforce patterns that have most likely been introduced before, focusing on the finer points of lead/follow and styling, as well as explore variation of these syllabus figures. The purpose is to provide an opportunity for avid, experienced bronze dancers to maintain and improve their ability in several dances. (This is unlike our focused 6 week classes, where students spend the entire class working on only 3-4 dances.)
 


1-Day Workshops

These workshops are designed to give intermediate and advanced dancers a one-evening blast of information about one particular dance style.
 


Class-By-Request

These time slots are reserved for students to request specific classes. If you have a class in mind, look for a couple time slots that work for you and contact us. We’ll try to find at least 5 other people who want that class, and presto! We have a new class (by request). Note - CBRs must be organized no less than a week before the class starts.
 
Prerequisite: Varies
        Tuesdays, 2/23 - 3/23, 6:15 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Lane   Registration Details, Note: No class on Mar 9

        Mondays, 4/05 - 4/26, 8:00 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Jae   Registration Details

        Tuesdays, 4/06 - 4/27, 7:15 pm, Blacksburg Community Center, Lane   Registration Details

        Weekender, 4/24 - 4/25, 2:00-4:00 p, Sapphire Studio, Staff   Registration Details


Dancing for Cruises and Special Occasions

Don't sit through another evening watching others dance! Learn a variety of dances including variations of both Foxtrot and Rumba adapted specifically for the music you'll hear and space available on cruises, at banquets, and at other special occasions.
 


Dancing to Wedding Music

Been invited to a wedding this summer and want to dance something other than the Electric Slide? This class is just the ticket! You will learn the basics of lead and follow, dance position, and a mix of Latin, swing, and smooth style dances all oriented towards having a good time dancing to the music typically played at weddings. Material will be partially determined by class requests.
 


Dancing Without A Partner

This class teaches Ballroom, Latin, and Swing dances as line dances, so not only do you not need a partner, this class gives you a great way to practice technique, style, and steps by yourself. It's excellent for light exercise too!
 


Intro to Popular Social Dances

Always wanted to learn to dance, but didn't know where to start? This class will take you on a tour of 3 popular social dance styles. You will learn the basics of lead and follow, dance position, and a mix of rhythm and smooth style dances. Material will be partially determined by class vote.
 


Just-4-Teens

Like dance movies? Want to learn to move like the stars? This teen-oriented class will focus on the social dance styles featured in so many recent movies. You will learn the basics of lead and follow, dance position, and a mix of Latin, swing, and smooth style dances. Material will be partially determined by class vote.
NOTE:Starting August 29, J-4-T will convert to a 4-session format.
 


Proms and Formals

Want to actually dance with your date at that big event coming up? Try this class. We'll take a sampling of swing, latin, and smooth style dances to prepare you to groove, spin, and dip to whatever music the DJ plays...
 

Technique Classes


First & Final Flourishes

Ever feel awkward at a dance? Not sure how to start dancing, and not sure what to do when the music ends? This class is for you.
 


Lead & Follow

A great class to stretch your ideas about what leading and following is all about. Learn how your connection points communicate with your partner. Ideal for a seasoned beginner or intermediate, but new dancers can gain from this class too.
 


Technique, Turns & Styling for Rhythm Dances

Learn how to improve your look and feel on the floor through proper body movement, posture, sharper turns and arm styling. It is recommended to have taken at least 6 weeks of Swing or Latin, though this class is valuable for dancers at all levels.
 


Technique, Turns & Styling for Smooth Dances

Learn how to improve your look and feel on the floor through proper body movement, posture, better balanced turns, and arm styling. It is recommended to have taken at least 6 weeks of Ballroom, though this class is valuable for dancers at all levels.
 

     
540-382-8782 - info@sapphiredance.com