The Coolest Date Night - A Dance Class with your Sweetheart
|
 What makes a dance class (online or in-person) the perfect date with your sweetheart? It comes down to a few basic things: skills, conversation, fun, and memories. (Not coincidentally, these things also make it a fantastic gift for your loved one or for your favorite couple.)
Skills - You are learning a skill that you will get to use over and over again. Yes, there’s only so much you’ll learn in one night, but you will walk out of your dance class able to dance an entire song, and not just one song - any song that fits that style. If you come back another night, you’ll learn another style or more moves. Either way you’ll have more skills. Whether you’re a “once a year on her birthday” type of dancer or an every week type, those skills are yours to take with you.
Conversation - Unlike a movie or a loud bar (both of which are not the best ideas right now!), you can actually talk to your date during a dance class. In fact, we encourage it - that’s kind of the point of “social” dance. It’s social. But, don’t worry if talking is hard. A lot of us learned to dance because we’re not good at talking to people. Because you’re dancing, those long pauses between conversation points are naturally filled by the dance. Nothing awkward there.
 Fun - You will, and this is a promise, end up laughing, smiling, intrigued, and challenged at your dance class. You will move, learn, and really participate. There’s no zoning out here - it’s too much fun.
Memories - When you come to a dance class, it’s an “experience.” It won’t take up space in your garage, but it will leave you with awesome memories and the feeling of having learned something together - that last word being the most important.
If you’re sold, or just thinking about it, here are some options:
Date Night Dance Class - These one-night workshops happen about once a month, the next one on Aug 1 (that’s Saturday!). Right now, they are both online and in person, with early registration only required for in person. No commitment, just lots of fun. Details.
 Group Classes in Blacksburg - These 4-week classes are a bit more of a commitment, but you’ll get 4 dates and a nice solid foundation in one dance style out of the class. They are in-person and do require advance registration. This month choose between Bachata, Swing, Waltz, and Carolina Shag.
Friday Beginner Workshops - These beginner friendly workshops happen once a week and cover a variety of dance styles. They are open to everyone, not just couples, so they may not be quite a cozy as some of the other options. They are also online, no early registration required, no commitment at all. Details.
Private Lessons - These intimate lessons focus entirely on you and your partner. They are perfect for celebrating special occasions or really getting your dance life together off to a great start. To learn more about private lessons, visit our webpage or email us at info@sapphiredance.com.
Back to Top.
|
Swinging with Jen - something for alllllll you cool cats |
 Many of you may remember Jen Gorce. She taught at Sapphire for a while while she was finishing up her time at Virginia Tech in the Geology Department. Now she lives in Houston, and through the miracle of Zoom she will be sharing her spectacular talents with us in a very inclusive Sunday afternoon of workshops on August 16.
2:00-3:00pm - Finding your Balance - exercises to improve your balance
If you want to dance well, you have to keep your balance. It affects your control and movement in almost every way. Jen will be putting us through a gauntlet of exercises that will help improve your balance and thereby all your dancing. This workshop is for anyone who has lost their balance during a dance (that includes you, and me too!). No previous dance experience required - so join in!
3:30-4:30pm - Yes AND... your path to group improv
How many times have you found yourself without a partner and thought “I don’t know what to do!” You can dance on your own -and- with people who are across the room or across the country. This class will give you ways to “Yes AND...” your group and build a community dance improv. Anyone with a basic knowledge of Swing before attending will have a great time learning these improv skills.
5:00-6:00pm - Get Your Kicks In - An intro to Swing-Style Charleston
Oh yeah baby - it’s Charleston. This workshop will start from scratch and build your skills in this super fun dance. Use those balance skills and improv tricks and end the day on an exercise-induced high.
This workshop is fundamentally online, but if you’d like to join us in the studio to take advantage of our wonderful floor and lots of space, please register by Saturday, Aug 15. Maximum class size will be enforced.
Cost:
Online - $9/workshop/person or all 3 for $22
In-Person - $14/workshop/person or all 3 for $32
Music will be playing between sessions for your enjoyment and practice.
Zoom Link for online attendance (advance registration not required): https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86105652868
Back to Top.
|
Keeping it Cool, and Playing it Safe - Sapphire’s In-Person Lesson Policies
|
 Well, after thinking about it for about 3 months, we finally have a coherent COVID policy. It is based, in part, on state recommendations for aerobics classes, for social gatherings, and my own research. Many of these policies are more strict than are required by the state, but they are what we feel is necessary to keep our students, our families, and ourselves safe.
You find a link to the full statement below, but here are some highlights:
- Please wear a mask while at the studio.
- Please keep 10ft distance from anyone not a member of your household.
- Please wash hands often.
In return, we will wear masks, keep social distance, sanitize touching surfaces several times a day, schedule lessons so that students do not intersect, and wash our hands between every lesson.
I’m sorry to have to put so many restrictions on your dancing. It kind of feels like we are removing the “social” from social dancing. But these steps are temporary. With your help, Sapphire will survive this crisis and we will have our warm, loving, social dance community back. Until then, thank you for your cooperation, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns.
Link to COVID policies at Sapphire.
Back to Top.
|
August Dance Classes: online and in-person
|
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.
|
Coming Soon - Now through August 16 |
|
 |
|
Date Night Dance Class (It's so much better than Netflix!)
Rumba and Swing Workshop
Saturday, August 1, 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Looking for a great way to woo your sweetheart? Want to add a little variety to your next Date Night?
Join Sapphire Ballroom for a special evening of beginner-friendly dancing just for couples; it will make you fall in love with partner dancing!
Absolutely no experience needed - all dances will be taught from the beginning by Maggie and Pierce. Coordinate with friends and make it a double date!
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86129575889
Prerequisite: None! Just come and have fun for an evening with your sweetheart!
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
 |
|
Saturday Morning Shag
Carolina Shag Workshop
Saturdays, August 1, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Are you dreaming of going to the beach? Want a mini vacation without the fuss of traveling? Join us Saturday mornings this summer for an hour of Carolina Shag. All SMS Classes are drop-in: feel free to join anytime!
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85706482732
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: None! No experience or partner required.
Location: Online with Sapphire
|
|
 |
|
"Breaking" the Mold
Cha Cha What's Next Workshop
Monday, August 3, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
This week, we will be examining breaks in their many, wondrous forms.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable with Level 1 material in the dance style.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Waltzing Your Fox Trot
Waltz What's Next Workshop
Monday, August 3, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Looking are favorite Fox Trot moves in the Waltz.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable with Level 1 material in the dance style.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
 |
|
Line Dancing With Lisa
Line Dance Workshop
Tuesday, August 4, 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!)
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87992146924
Prerequisite: None! Beginner and advanced line dancers will find lots to love at this workshop.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
 |
|
Do the Hustle (doot doo doo...)
Hustle Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, August 7, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Learn the fundamental moves of this simple, fun swing dance. Everything will be taught in a beginner friendly, solo friendly format.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83888968088
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online with Sapphire
|
|
| |
|
Saturday Morning Shag
Carolina Shag Workshop
Saturdays, August 8, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Are you dreaming of going to the beach? Want a mini vacation without the fuss of traveling? Join us Saturday mornings this summer for an hour of Carolina Shag. All SMS Classes are drop-in: feel free to join anytime!
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85706482732
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: None! No experience or partner required.
Location: Online with Sapphire
|
|
| |
|
When T-A-N-G-O Ain't Enough
Tango What's Next Workshop
Monday, August 10, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
A solo routine in Tango that will fire your engine and get your drama flowing.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable with Level 1 material in the dance style.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Remember all those Whips?
West Coast Swing What's Next Workshop
Monday, August 10, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Consider this a primer for the hundreds of whip variations you've learned. No, we won't cover them all, but will try to look as lots of foundations and how they connect.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable with Level 1 material in the dance style.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
 |
|
Learn to Swing
Level 1 Swing Group Class
Tuesdays, August 11 - September 01, 7:15 pm - 8:15 pm
GREAT FOR BEGINNERS!
Get ready to dance the night away to groovy rock n' roll and up-beat blues with this hip, happy dance filled with exciting twists and turns. No experience or partner required.
Maximum enrollment = 10.
Please register ahead of time with the Blacksburg Community Center, Activity #312100-S3
Prerequisite: None! This is just for beginners, just for you!
Location: Blacksburg Community Center
|
|
| |
|
Beginner Bachata
Level 1 Bachata Group Class
Tuesdays, August 11 - September 01, 6:15 pm - 7:15 pm
Sassy and fun for new and experienced dancers!
Love to Salsa and Merengue? Try Bachata with approachable steps and medium speed, Bachata is fun for new and experienced dancers alike who want to dance at Latin clubs.
Maximum enrollment = 10.
Please register ahead of time with the Blacksburg Community Center, Activity #312100-L3
Prerequisite: None! This is just for beginners, just for you!
Location: Blacksburg Community Center
|
|
| |
|
Carolina Shag for Beginners
Level 1 Carolina Shag Group Class
Wednesdays, August 12 - September 02, 7:15 pm - 8:15 pm
This class will offer a great challenge to ambitious beginners and experienced dancers.
Love Beach Music? It's time to learn to move those boogie shoes and go dancing in the sand with this Southern classic swing dance style full of awesome spins and smooth moves. Previous experience with Swing is helpful, but not required.
Maximum enrollment = 10.
Please register ahead of time with the Blacksburg Community Center, Activity #312100-S2
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: None! This is just for beginners, just for you!
Location: Blacksburg Community Center
|
|
| |
|
Welcome to the Waltz
Level 1 Waltz Group Class
Wednesdays, August 12 - September 02, 7:15 pm - 8:15 pm
Never danced before? This class is perfect for you!
The Waltz's light and airy grace has made it a ballroom classic, sweeping across dance floors generation after generation. Join the fun and before you know it, you'll be whirling like a classic romantic movie star.
Maximum enrollment = 10.
Please register ahead of time with the Blacksburg Community Center, Activity #312100-B2
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: None! This is just for beginners, just for you!
Location: Blacksburg Community Center
|
|
| |
|
Swing into the Weekend!
Single Time Swing Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, August 14, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Learn the fundamental moves of this simple, fun swing dance. Everything will be taught in a beginner friendly, solo friendly format.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83888968088
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online with Sapphire
|
|
| |
|
Saturday Morning Shag
Carolina Shag Workshop
Saturdays, August 15, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Are you dreaming of going to the beach? Want a mini vacation without the fuss of traveling? Join us Saturday mornings this summer for an hour of Carolina Shag. All SMS Classes are drop-in: feel free to join anytime!
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85706482732
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: None! No experience or partner required.
Location: Online with Sapphire
|
|
 |
|
Swinging with Jen - Solo skills and styling
Swing Workshop
Sunday, August 16, 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Join us for a special afternoon of solo lessons with Jen Gorce:
- Finding your Balance - exercises to improve your balance
- Yes AND... your path to group improv
- Get Your Kicks In - An intro to Charleston
Music will be playing between sessions for your enjoyment and practice.
Zoom Link for online attendance: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86105652868
Prerequisite:
For "Finding Your Balance" - None! Open to everyone who wants to improve their balance while dancing, walking, or standing.
For "Yes AND..." and "Get Your Kicks" Participants should be comfortable with beginning level Swing.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
Coming Later - August 17 and later |
|
| |
|
When the Rumba Rhythm Makes You Move
Rumba What's Next Workshop
Monday, August 17, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
We will be checking alternative rhythms in Rumba. QQQQQQ and Q&Q - here we come!
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable with Level 1 material in the dance style.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Turn the Other Cheek
Salsa What's Next Workshop
Monday, August 17, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
We're going to get cheeky with our turns and spin them the way they don't usually spin.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable with Level 1 material in the dance style.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Line Dancing With Lisa
Line Dance Workshop
Tuesday, August 18, 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!)
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87992146924
Prerequisite: None! Beginner and advanced line dancers will find lots to love at this workshop.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Getting groovy in Swing Time
Triple Time Swing Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, August 21, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Learn the fundamental moves of this simple, fun swing dance. Everything will be taught in a beginner friendly, solo friendly format.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83888968088
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online with Sapphire
|
|
| |
|
Saturday Morning Shag
Carolina Shag Workshop
Saturdays, August 22, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Are you dreaming of going to the beach? Want a mini vacation without the fuss of traveling? Join us Saturday mornings this summer for an hour of Carolina Shag. All SMS Classes are drop-in: feel free to join anytime!
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85706482732
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: None! No experience or partner required.
Location: Online with Sapphire
|
|
| |
|
Hesitation is Golden
Waltz What's Next Workshop
Monday, August 24, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Finding more ways to use hesitations and what that means for the rest of the dance.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable with Level 1 material in the dance style.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Sliding with Style
Hustle What's Next Workshop
Monday, August 24, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Using Sliding doors instead of a basic opens (forgive the pun!) doors to new possibilities.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable with Level 1 material in the dance style.
Location: Online and at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
In the Groove
Triple Time Swing Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, August 28, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Learn the fundamental moves of this simple, fun swing dance. Everything will be taught in a beginner friendly, solo friendly format.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83888968088
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online with Sapphire
|
|
| |
|
Saturday Morning Shag
Carolina Shag Workshop
Saturdays, August 29, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Are you dreaming of going to the beach? Want a mini vacation without the fuss of traveling? Join us Saturday mornings this summer for an hour of Carolina Shag. All SMS Classes are drop-in: feel free to join anytime!
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85706482732
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: None! No experience or partner required.
Location: Online with Sapphire
|
|
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.
|
Back to Top. |
| |
|
Thanks for reading; we hope you found something you liked.
Until we see you again, happy dancing! |
To unsubscribe from this newsletter, please reply to this address with “Remove me” in the subject line. If you would like to change the subscribing address, reply with “Change My Address” in the subject line. Thanks!
To subscribe to Sapphire Dance News, our monthly e-newsletter, visit us at SapphireDance.com/ContactUs.php. |
|
