F.A.Q.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

??? Do I need to book for lessons?

No. Just come along and join in.? There are no contracts or commitments to attending any classes. ?If you are attending for the first time, let the person know so they can assist in making you feel at ease.? Bookings are recommended for some Cabarets and Balls especially if you want a table with a group of friends.

??? Where are beginner lessons?

Beginner lessons are held at St Marys and Modbury North. Refer Garry?s Learn to dance page for full details.? These are run in group sessions with Garry demonstrating out the front ? when he thinks you have the feel of the dance movements he will play some music and guide you through the dance.? The advantage to helping learning easy is that all dancers are doing the same moves at the same time allowing you to follow those in front.? Dancers are at all different levels and the more experienced are always willing to help those who are learning.

??? How much are Lessons and Balls?

Refer Lessons and Cabarets and Balls for the pricing.?

??? Is dancing easy?

Like all new things you may find it hard at first, but come along for a few weeks and you will soon be picking up the steps. There are dancers at different stages of learning with the more advanced always willing to help if you need some assistance. Practice makes it easier so new dancers are encouraged to continue to come along and after a few weeks you will find that you have learnt a lot of the basic steps and learning a new dance will be much easier.? You will be surprised how many dances you have actually learnt.? One of the advantages of learning New Vogue dances is that they repeat themselves and all people on the floor are doing the same moves at the same time, making it easy to follow and learn quickly.? There are always people who are happy to help you learn a dance.

The important thing is to have fun and not be too concerned about how long it takes to learn a dance. No two weeks are the same and over a period of weeks you will be introduced to many different dances.

Everyone is at different stages of learning ? so just remember that even the most experienced dancer may be learning a dance for the very first time too!

?? What can I expect at social dance lessons?

Garry?s dance lesson evenings are informal in a relaxed social atmosphere. Dance steps are taught in segments, repeatedly walked through and then danced with music. 2 or 3 dances may be taught before commencing the social dance. During the evening you will practice dances taught on the night or on previous nights. A cross section of dances are taught and practised, including progressive dances where everyone can join in.

?? Do I need a partner?

No. Singles and couples attend all lessons and social events. For those who are new to dancing, make yourself known and you will be made to feel welcome by Garry and his many friendly regulars who will offer encouragement and help you join in the fun of dancing. Dancing is a great way to meet and make new friends in a non-threatening environment.

?? Do I have to switch partners during lessons?

Those who come as couples can dance together, however if you are having any difficulties it may be an advantage to occasionally dance with someone more experienced to help you learn the dance. ?It also helps in meeting and making new friends. ?Joining in the progressive dances where you change partners allows you to learn from others and correct any problems you may have.

?? Do I need to book to attend social dance lessons?

All dancers are welcome to come along on any night.

?? Can I start lessons today?

It's never too late to join us! See Lessons for more information about types of classes and venues. New dances are always being taught. So you can start today!? Just turn up and join in.

??? Can I get private lessons?

Please contact Garry for details.

?? ?Do you teach ?Latin? dancing?

Yes, two forms of ?Latin? are taught.? Latin American form covers the dances Cha Cha, Rumba, Samba, Paso Doble and Jive.

Street Latin (or Club Latin) includes Salsa, Mambo. Street Latin is fun, expressive and popular.

?? What age group attends?

All ages are welcome. Dancers generally range from 18 to 80.

?? What should I wear?

Dancing is exercising and you will soon warm up when you start.? Comfortable, neat casual light clothing with a removable jacket or jumper is recommended as you will get warm.?

?? What shoes should I wear?

Special shoes are not essential but flatter sole shoes which glide easily on the floor are what you need to allow ease of movement. Green hide leather soles are recommended - guidance on shoes is available at the classes if you require some detailed advice.?

Ladies: Wear comfortable shoes which fit firmly on your feet. T-bar shoes are worn by many ladies.? Gentlemen: Light weight lace-up shoes.

Many regular dancers wear special dance shoes. If you want to purchase dance shoes, prices start from approximately $75.00 a pair and can be purchased from dance wear outlets.

?? ?What is New Vogue?

New Vogue is the name of a dance style that originated in Australia. ?New Vogue is sequence dancing (i.e. all couples are dancing the same steps in the same sequence and direction) performed to various ballroom rhythms.

?? What does ?Modern? mean in ballroom dancing?

The term ?modern? refers to ballroom dances such as Slow Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Viennese Waltz and Quickstep.

??? Is parking available?

Most venues have their own car parks. Other street parking is available within close proximity to each venue.

??? How do I get tickets to Cabarets and Balls?

Tickets are always available at the door.? It is recommended to book tickets for Christmas and New Year Balls with Garry Roberts. If you want to sit with a group of friends, you can book a table (12).? The Balls are very popular so get your booking in early so you don?t miss out.? Tickets can be purchased at lesson evenings and other events at his various venues. See Dance Locations.

?? Are refreshments available at all venues?

On lesson nights Free Tea and Coffee is available. Dancers often bring a water bottle.

Cabarets and Balls are generally advertised as Basket Supper and BYO Drinks.

?? Where do I get more information?

If you have a question that is not listed above you may send us an email: or ring Garry on 0417 811 558.