Used shoes seeking new dancing feet
|
 Dancing is so much better (and easier!) in real dance shoes. If you are thinking of buying yourself a pair, but have been holding back, we have happy news!
We are going to start selling used dance shoes in the studio. In order for this to be beneficial for everyone, we are giving certain limitations, doing our best to keep everything simple. The point is not for us to make money, but to help more people find good shoes to dance in.
If you want to buy shoes...
Come on in and take a look! They are all $25 a pair and we already have ten pairs waiting for a new home. You can take part of your lesson time to look at the shoes or coordinate with your teacher to find a time between lessons for a little shopping. We will never have very many in stock, but hopefully they will change frequently, so be sure to look at the table frequently. Or watch our Facebook page (Facebook.com/SapphireBallroom/) for updates as they come in.
If you want to sell us your shoes...
We will buy good-condition, used dance shoes for up to $15/pair. At this point, we will not pay any more. And we cannot accept shoes that are not in good condition.
We have a limited amount of space, so we can only accept 3 pairs of similar shoes from any one person at one time. So, try to limit your trade-ins to a few pairs at a time. But go ahead talk to Debbi about bringing in those shoes!
We also reserve the right to turn away shoes because we are overstocked. But I don't think that will happen, at least not for a while.
If you’ve never had the chance to dance in high-quality shoes, this is for you! Whether you’re looking for your first pair or want an extra pair for a fraction of full price, I hope you will be able to find a new “sole mate.” So, we will try this until May to see if you like it - let us know what you think!
Back to Top.
|
Blacksburg Group Classes for Winter-Spring 2021
|
 The Blacksburg group class format has changed to meet new goals and (hopefully) make it even easier for you to start dancing.
The new class format is two 2-hour classes a week apart. (The old way was 1 hour for 4 weeks). This new schedule only requires a 2 night commitment to get 4 hours of lessons in one of 8 dance styles we are offereing this semester. Four hours is enough time to learn the basics of a style well enough to stand up and have fun to great music, whether it's at your cousin's wedding or in your living room.
These classes are typically quite small, which means you will receive lots of personal attention and have plenty of space to dance and distance from other students. Because we are keeping these classes so small, I really encourage you to register ahead of time with the Blacksburg Community Center. Registration opens January 12, 2021, at www.blacksburg.gov/recreation. If you would like assistance with choosing your class or getting signed up, please let us know!
Here is the Winter/Spring Schedule for Blacksburg Classes:
Learn to Salsa & Merengue: Level 1 class
Fast and fun, with lots of spins to enegetic Latin music.
Tuesdays, Jan 19-26, 6:30-8:30pm
Beginner’s American Tango: Level 1 class
Dynamic and exciting, with lots of drama and just a bit of travel
Wednesdays, Jan 20-27, 6:30-8:30pm
Step into Swing: Level 1 class
Bouncy and energetic, great for dancing to upbeat music current and classic.
Tuesdays, Feb 16-23, 6:30-8:30pm
Fall for Rumba: Level 1 class
Sweet and romantic, perfect for all kinds of slow songs.
Wednesdays, Feb 17-24, 6:30-8:30pm
Glide into Fox Trot: Level 1 class
Suave and classy, it'll bring out your classic movie star.
Tuesdays, March 23-30, 6:30-8:30pm
Here Comes the Hustle: Level 1 class
Fast and groovy, great to disco but even better for current club hits.
Wednesdays, March 24-31, 6:30-8:30pm
Learn the Perfect Slow Dance- Nightclub 2-Step: Level 1 class
Graceful and smooth, it's waaay better than the standard "stand and sway."
Tuesdays, April 20-27, 6:30-8:30pm
Welcome to Cha Cha: Level 1 class
Sassy and fiery, with fancy feet and captivating rhythm.
Wednesdays, April 21-28, 6:30-8:30pm
If you take a class and find yourself wanting more, all of these classes are scheduled with the possibility of a Level 2 class in mind and preparing for a What’s Next Workshop as well. Be sure to tell your teacher if you’re interested in continuing to higher level material!
More details on these and other classes available at SapphireDance.com/GroupLessons.php.
Back to Top.
|
Looking for a better date night?
Friday Beginner Workshops start back up on Jan 8
|
 The always-exciting, best-way-to-start-the-weekend, Friday Beginner Workshops (FBWs) are back on Fridays at 7pm, starting January 8.
Each workshop starts off with
45-50 min on a highlight dance style, giving you enough material to dance all the way through a song. Usually that involves the basic of the dance style and a turn (because turns are fun!), but it could include even more depending on the class.
After the feature lesson, you'll get a 10-15 min sneak peak at next week's feature, giving you a taste of another dance style and a leg up on the lesson if you're able to come back.
And at 8:00pm, and if there are return students, we will review material from last week's feature, giving you a chance to ask questions, practice and dance what you learned the previous week.
In January, the feature dance styles will be the happy, exciting Swing, classic Fox Trot, sassy Cha Cha, and groovy Hustle. Find out more about these dances here: Swing, Fox Trot, Cha Cha, Hustle.
More details on these and other classes available at SapphireDance.com/GroupLessons.php.
Back to Top.
|
What’s Next Mondays will be featuring a few series
|
 While the subjects of the Monday night What’s Next Workshops is always changing based on who seems to be coming and what they seem to need, we do have a few decisions already made for 2021.
We will be continuing to have Exercises to Improve Balance once a month with Jen. These butt-kicking workouts are gentle on the joints but dramatically target core muscles and balance training. You do not need to be a dancer of any sort to benefit from the workshops, just someone who wants more control of their body during life. Which really shoud include all dancers!
In addition, we’re planning on 4 intro-level workshops on Bolero and 3 beginner workshops on Quickstep in January. Both these series require previous dance exepereince, but not in Bolero or Quickstep. So, if you're an established Latin dancer (for Bolero) or a comfortable Fox Trotter (for Quickstep) and want a new challenge - this is your chance to dive into these excellent and difficult styles in a class targeted towards experienced dancers.
For February, we’re going to have three workshops on intermediate/advanced Hustle. And in March, we will be digging into American Tango (March).
In addition to these sersies, we will be rounding out the schedule with single workshops in Waltz, West Coast Swing, Salsa, Cha Cha, and more - doing our best to reflect the Blacksburg and Friday workshop schedules.
Be sure to check the schedule frequently as more details are posted: SapphireDance.com/GroupLessons.php.
Back to Top.
|
Beat The Winter Blues Playlist
|
The color blue has a special place in my heart - I've taught and danced at a place named "Sapphire" for more than 17 years. My hair was blue for quite a while (and I mean electric blue!), and nothing is quite as comfortable as blue jeans. So, why do we call this tired, grumpy feeling the Blues? I have two ways I compat the blues.
First I give myself goals - like resolutions, but they have to be concrete like "talk to a living person outside my household everyday" rather than "be more social." Even better are goals that have a visual impact like "clean off the top of my desk." Hm - yeah, I really need to do that. How about - learn 5 moves in a new dance? (Just saying - it's a good goal!)
My second method is find new music. I spent hours on my computer last night going "I've never heard of this person; what does their song sound like?" And "Kaleb likes this signer - what other songs does she have?" I didn't accoumplish much... my desk is still covered in piles of paper... but my soul felt better fed and more content than it did before my wanderings.
This is the power of music and here are some of the songs i discovered last night, mixed with some songs that I haven't heard in a while. The theme in my searching was both winter and beating the blues (not necessarily blues genre music). I hope you enjoy!
To see the full Beat the Winter Blues playlist, visit us on YouTube.
See all of our YouTube Playlists on our YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/SapphireBallroom/playlists.
What songs do you think should have made this list? What would you like to see in next month’s playlist? Let us know - we’d love to hear from you on Facebook or by email.
Back to Top.
|
Upcoming 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 Group Lessons have a maximum of 10 students. 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.
|
 |
|
Swing and Fox Trot - Baby, They're Classic
Triple Time Swing and Fox Trot Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, January 8, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Like classic rock n' roll? Into upbeat country? In love with the blues? You need to learn Triple Time Swing. It's perfect for slow-medium speed, upbeat music of all kinds. After reelin and rockin' for a while, it'll be time to try a taste of classic Fox Trot - smooth and suave.
Advance registration required for in-studio attendance - email us today at info@SapphireDance.com!
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
 |
|
Intro to Bolero - Arms and Technique
Bolero What's Next Workshop
Monday, January 11, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Arm styling in Bolero is huge - literally and figuratively. It's part of the overall look and actually really helps with balance. We'll also be refining that drop and drift that makes Bolero unique.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing some Latin style dances- especially those with break steps. Bolero experience not expected.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Stepping up your Quickstep - Outside Partner
Quickstep What's Next Workshop
Monday, January 11, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
You can't Quickstep without doing a LOT of outside partner. That's why we're gonna make it better.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing some Quickstep at a medium slow speed.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Classy and Sassy
Fox Trot and Cha Cha Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, January 15, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Learn to Fox Trot with all the suave style of a classic movie star! This traveling dance will sweep you off your feet if you try it (not literally, since it's hard to dance while not on your feet). And then, we'll get a little earthy with a tantalizing taste of fast and flirty Cha Cha. Bonus: if there are any repeat students from last week, we will review some Swing at 8:00.
Advance registration required for in-studio attendance - email us today at info@SapphireDance.com!
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Intro to Bolero - Side Passes and more
Bolero What's Next Workshop
Monday, January 18, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Getting into open breaks and side passes.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing some Latin style dances- especially those with break steps. Bolero experience not expected.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Stepping up your Quickstep - More Lock Steps and Natural Turns
Quickstep What's Next Workshop
Monday, January 18, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Some fundamental patterns to help you around the floor.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing some Quickstep at a medium slow speed.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
 |
|
Learn to Salsa and Merengue
Level 1 Salsa Group Class
Tuesdays, January 19 - January 26, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Fast, fun, and ready to party, these spicy Latin favorites will add lots of flavor to your dancing life. Absolute beginners are absolutely welcome!
Maximum enrollment = 10.
Please register ahead of time with the Blacksburg Community Center, Activity #212100-L1
Prerequisite: None! This is just for beginners, just for you!
Location: Blacksburg Community Center
|
|
 |
|
Line Dancing With Lisa
Line Dance Workshop
Tuesday, January 19, 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. Easiest dances are taught at the beginning of the evening, more challenging dances towards the end. And we always like to end by dancing everything we've learned one more time.
- Early registration required for in person attendance! (Email us now at info@SapphireDance.com!)
Prerequisite: None! Beginner and advanced line dancers will find lots to love at this workshop.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Beginner's Guide to Tango
Level 1 Tango Group Class
Wednesdays, January 20 - January 27, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
The romance, the power, the passion - they all add up to the Tango. The staccato timing and stalking grace of American Tango create an exciting experience on the dance floor. No experience necessary.
Maximum enrollment = 10.
Please register ahead of time with the Blacksburg Community Center, Activity #212100-B1
Prerequisite: None! This is just for beginners, just for you!
Location: Blacksburg Community Center
|
|
| |
|
Cha Cha and Hustle - they will Rock You
Cha Cha and Hustle Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, January 22, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Are you itching to get out on the dance floor at your next office party? That wedding coming up next year? Or do you really want to groove in your living room? Cha Cha is fast and fun, a little challenging, but you can handle it. Pair it with Hustle and you've got nearly every up-tempo song covered with flair.
Advance registration required for in-studio attendance - email us today at info@SapphireDance.com!
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Intro to Bolero - Outside Breaks and Turkish Towel
Bolero What's Next Workshop
Monday, January 25, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Outside Breaks really come into their own in Bolero - becoming a sweeping and dramatic move when you add Drop and Drift.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing some Latin style dances- especially those with break steps. Bolero experience not expected.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Stepping up your Quickstep - Adding Depth
Quickstep What's Next Workshop
Monday, January 25, 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Crunch your angles to fit more in limited space.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing some Quickstep at a medium slow speed.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Fast and Fun gets paired with drama and flair
Hustle and Tango Friday Beginner Workshop
Friday, January 29, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Ever wonder what made the Disco Inferno burn? It was the hot dancing! Hustle is one of the easiest Swing Styles, a great way to get started dancing, and works to almost every kind of music including lots of current pop, country, and alternative. After spinning 'round, right round, we'll get a taste of the wonderfully dramatic Tango. Bonus: if we have returning students, we will review some of last week's Cha Cha at 8:00.
Advance registration required for in-studio attendance - email us today at info@SapphireDance.com!
Prerequisite: None - this is just for beginners!
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
101 Variations on a Reverse Whip
West Coast Swing What's Next Workshop
Monday, February 1, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
No, not really, but I bet we cover 11 variations of this awesome, fundamental figure.
Prerequisite: Participants should be comfortable dancing a basic whip in West Coast Swing.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
|
| |
|
Exercises to Improve Balance
Class-By-Request What's Next Workshop
Monday, February 1, 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; your may be sore; you will probably complain (we all do); but we 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
|
|
| |
|
Line Dancing With Lisa
Line Dance Workshop
Tuesday, February 2, 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. Easiest dances are taught at the beginning of the evening, more challenging dancers towards the end. And we always like to end by dancing everything we've learned one more time.
- Early registration required for in person attendance! (Email us now at info@SapphireDance.com!)
Prerequisite: None! Beginner and advanced line dancers will find lots to love at this workshop.
Location: Online and In Person at the Sapphire Studio
|
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. |
|
