Dear Edie,
I've been taking classes for three years, and I still feel like a beginner. I'm terrified of Salsa clubs.
Any suggesions?
- Fearful Salsero
Dear Fearful Salsero! Maybe you're curious about Salsa dancing. Or maybe you've taken a few classes and you're ready for a REAL Salsa night. Here's the thing: it's intimidating! You don't know anyone. You don't have a partner. You barely know any moves. Trust me, EVERY Salsa dancer has felt that way. So here's the advice I wish someone had given me!
1. Make Plans for BEFORE
Get a group together and meet for a drink, coffee or dessert first. Everybody's a little nervous, and that's okay! That nervous energy turns into giggles and fun, and suddenly you're in the perfect mindset to dance. No one wants to join you? Meet up with your friends anyway, then head out early on your own. You'll be fine. I promise!
2. TAKE the Class!
Almost every Salsa night starts with a beginner lesson, and it's made just for YOU. The best part is that the lessons always rotate partners. You'll meet new people and start building a list of dancers to dance with later. And you can stop worrying about whether you have a partner, because you don't need one! Most dancers come and go ALONE. It's about the dancing! The class also gets your ears ready for Salsa music, which makes it so much easier to find the beat later.
Edie's TIP: When you rotate and meet someone you really enjoyed dancing with, just say, "Let's dance later!" Done! Now the guys don't have to work up the nerve to ask, and the gals don't have to wait to be asked. Pressure GONE!
3. Make Plans for AFTER
You took the lesson. Awesome! You danced a few songs. Even more awesome! But now your feet are tired, your rhythm is slipping, and you're watching advanced dancers do crazy things while you try to keep up with leading, following and turning. And it's only 11:00! What do you do?
Don't make Salsa the END of your night. Make it the interlude! Meet up with friends who weren't there. Go to a party, a club, or get dessert or drinks. Now you have a story to tell, and a reason to bring even MORE friends next time. This matters because if you sit and watch until you're sleepy, you'll dampen the fun you had earlier. Go out on a high note!
Want to learn about Salsa music? Come dance with me! We have group classes every TUESDAY night at the Denver Highlands Events Center, with a FREE wine and cheese social afterward. Got questions? Send them my way!
our Group Class website: https://www.thisissalsa.com
— Edie, The Salsa FREAK!!
https://www.salsafreak.com/bio
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