FAQ

Yes, we need you to register for any one of our classes. This helps us to maintain are male/female (Lead / Follow) ratio as close to 50/50 as we can get it. We do accept drop-ins, however please note that it’s based on space availability.

If you are unsure, you are welcome to observe classes (at no charge) prior to taking them. If it is your first time at the studio, we recommend taking a level that is lower for the following reasons; you may be unfamiliar with our teaching style, classes may be harder than what you are accustomed to and you might want to acclimate yourself to new surroundings. If you haven’t danced in many years, you’ll want to reintroduce your body and muscles slowly. Remember, if you’ve chosen a class that is not best for you, we will happily switch you to another class.

The cost of group classes for a 4 week course is $95 per person. If you register as a couple the cost is $170 for the couple (* Please note that the definition of a couple is gender independent, however it must consist of one “leader” and one “follower”). Prices may vary with course length, but in general, our class sessions are 4 weeks in length.

You do not need a partner and we get just as many singles as couples registered. We ask that you register in advance of course starting so we can do our best to match the ratio of leads to follows.

Our classes are for teens and adults only and at present we don’t offer kids programs.

Dancewear There is no dress code, so dress comfortably. Jeans or dressy pants and T-shirts for men. For ladies skirts, dresses or stretchy pants are perfect. Comfortable Shoes Shoes are important because your feet will feel the impact of the workout, and the last thing you need are pinching shoes. They should have a leather or suede bottom, which is how most proper ballroom & latin dancing shoes are constructed. Rubber soled shoes are not ideal for dancing due to too much traction. Ladies often wear high-heeled sandals from one-and-a-half to three inches. Ideally, women’s shoes should have a soft sole and fit securely so that you won’t have to worry about them falling off. Be careful of the very high heels. If you can’t walk properly in them, then you probably will have trouble dancing in them also. It is better to start out with a smaller heel and work your way up. Where can you get good dance shoes? Shoes are available through Dancing Shows YYC, contact Steve Van at 403-540-2158 or vansteve@shaw.ca or contact David at: david@mambopro.com or call 403-710-5364 for more info.

The music we dance to is written in 2 four beat measures (4/4 time) and we dance in a pattern of six steps danced over eight beats of the music. A “break step” is the step that you change the direction of your momentum. When your break step falls on the second and sixth beat of the music, then you are dancing “On 2”. We use the wording “On 2” when describing the New York style of Salsa, and we teach that style exclusively.

We teach classes at two different studios. Our primary studio is Olympia Dancesport. The studio location for your class is also listed in the registration details that is automatically sent to you after completing your online registration. Olympia Dancesport 517 16 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 1K5 Ballroom & Country Dance Studio 121C 17 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 1L7