Introduction to BallroomIf you’ve never danced before, it can be confusing to know where to begin. The best place to start is in a group class that focuses on the new dancer, our Intro to Ballroom Class. This class addresses the vital theory of how to learn to ballroom dance and puts everyone on the “same page”, allowing the classes to move forward evenly.
In the class you will learn everything you need to know to understand ballroom dancing and be able to practice outside of class. Our Intro to Ballroom Class focuses on four dances: Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha Cha, and Swing (two of these dances are taught each month).
What’s Required?
Pre-registration (we recommend signing up below, but you can also call 408-824-0074 or email info@aretedancecenter.com)
All dancers must agree to our Liability Waiver to participate in class
All dancers must be at least 16 years old or older
Socks or dance shoes (dance shoes are not required for Intro to Ballroom, but once you decide you will be continuing, please purchase suede-bottom dance shoes)
No partner required
The Fine Print: Please note that Intro to Ballroom is a four-week series that is already discounted as we require you to sign up for all the weeks, even if you need to miss a week due to travel or illness (you are effectively paying for 3 classes and receiving 4 classes when you register). No makeup classes are available for missed weeks, but we can send you a video of the material covered in class if you email us about an absence.
❋ Intentional Structure
Our progressive dance program can bring someone from a total newcomer to a fully developed dancer. Everyone has different goals, and the ways in which adults choose to use their dancing differ. Our studio’s progressive and comprehensive system of dance training will enable you to discover and develop your personal dance goals!
❋ First Month - What You’ll Learn
Steps to a short routine in each dance
Music and how to count
Technique
Dance attire and shoes
Our program
How to practice on your own
❋ Second Month
Each month we alternate dances, so if you already know Waltz & Cha Cha, you'll be learning Foxtrot & Swing (or vice versa). Once you finish this month, you'll have four dances in your repertoire.
Now it‘s time to practice, practice, practice!
❋ Graduation and Next Steps
Once you know all the material from Intro to Ballroom (with confidence), ask about graduating into Level 1! This can be as soon as 2 months, or up to 1+ years depending on your goals.
Your knowledge check is taken as a private lesson. Once you pass, you'll be able to attend Level 1 classes!
Introduction to Ballroom Series
(May 2026)
Starts the first Wednesday of May
Continues for 4 Wednesdays
Class runs from 7:45pm to 8:30pm (45 minutes)
$80/person
Introduction to Ballroom Series
(June 2026)
Starts the first Wednesday of June
Continues for 4 Wednesdays
Class runs from 7:45pm to 8:30pm (45 minutes)
$80/person
The registration page will open in a new window connected with our booking software, Glofox.
You will be asked to make an account to pay and register. After making your account, you can select how many people you want to register (1 or 2) before paying.
Studio Orientation & Policies
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Please arrive 10-15 minutes early for your group class or private lesson to sign in and to warm up. Warming up prevents injury! If you arrive more than 10 minutes after class has started, you will not be able to join the class, but you may audit the class instead.
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No street shoes are allowed in the ballroom. Please wear socks until you are able to purchase dance shoes. Click here to learn more about proper footwear and where to buy it. No thick rubber-soled black jazz shoes, please.
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We encourage practicewear (ballroom/Latin skirts, men's practice pants, etc.) when possible, as it improves your dancing! Please ask your instructor about which practicewear to purchase.
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As a small business, we are unable to offer refunds for any common (non-emergency) circumstances. We are happy to move your registration to a different class or month if given 24 hours notice. Private lessons must be cancelled 24 hours in advance to avoid being charged for the instructor’s time.
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You must sign a liability waiver to dance with us. Please notify your instructor if you have not signed one already.
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Please, no videotaping of group classes to protect students’ privacy. Your group class teacher may offer the opportunity to film them performing the choreography at the end of your class. Please don’t post videos to social media without consulting the instructor first.
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In order to provide a comfortable learning environment for all, we do not allow friends, family, children, or other spectators to wait in the ballroom while lessons or group classes are taking place. Please limit observation time to 10 minutes or less. See the office if you have any questions.