WE RUN OUR CLASSES IN A MONTH LONG SERIES PROGRAM.
DROP INS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME…
however, the later in the term you drop in, the more advanced the class.
Masks optional but encouraged
No partner required. We will be rotating partners in class for those who choose to, but it is not mandatory to do so.
If you would like to book a private individual, couple, or small group lesson, call or text 503.708.2167
SLOW BAL 1
Beginning*
Instructors: Rod + Rachael
April Wednesdays 6:30-7:30p
Vintage Swing dancing is alive and well in Portland! Swing music, both live and DJed at venues and events, span a wide variety of tempos. So when the music slows down we need a dance that matches the rhythms of these sweet sweet slow jams...enter Slow Bal!
Like Balboa, Slow Balboa is a vintage Swing dance that originated in Southern California in the 1920s, created specifically for slow tunes. It is best to already be familiar with Balboa before starting Slow Bal, as there are lots of fancy steps and Balboa fundamentals that are retooled so you can elegantly take advantage of the slow music, and look just as elegant as you'll feel doing it. #kickassdancer
*Some knowledge of basic Balboa is a recommended for this class, but beginners are welcome! A partner is recommended but not required.
Level 1: Slow Bal Dance Basics
Perfect for first-timers or individuals who want to refresh and improve their fundamental steps in Slow Bal. This level focuses on establishing a strong foundation and understanding of the basic movements. Whether you're new to Slow Bal or looking to solidify your skills, this level will provide a supportive and encouraging environment. Join us this month and discover the joy of dancing Slow Bal!
SIGN UP:
4/3 , 4/10 , 4/17 , 4/24 , 5/1
BALBOA 1
Beginning
Instructors: Rod + Emily
May Wednesdays 7:30-8:30p
Balboa is a dance that falls under the Swing umbrella that originated on the west coast, in contrast to its East Coast cousin the Lindy Hop. With up-tempo music, crowded dance floors (during pandemic, crowded living room!), and sometimes tiny venues, there is no better dance than Balboa to get you moving in situations just like these. In fact, it was born out of those very elements. Close connection and itty-bitty footwork are characteristic of this dance, making it ideal for space and energy conservation, while still swingin’ to the hot rhythms of the 1920s… and the 2010s!
This class is for curious dancers who are new to Balboa. It is also an excellent class for more experienced dancers to revisit fundamental techniques, or try on learning their lead/follow role opposite.
SIGN UP:
5/8 , 5/15 , 5/22 , 5/29
SLOW BAL 2
Beyond Beginning
Instructors: Rachel + Rod
May Wednesdays 6:30-7:30p
Vintage Swing dancing is alive and well in Portland! Swing music, both live and DJed at venues and events, span a wide variety of tempos. So when the music slows down we need a dance that matches the rhythms of these sweet sweet slow jams...enter Slow Bal!
Like Balboa, Slow Balboa is a vintage Swing dance that originated in Southern California in the 1920s, created specifically for slow tunes. It is best to already be familiar with Balboa before starting Slow Bal, as there are lots of fancy steps and Balboa fundamentals that are retooled so you can elegantly take advantage of the slow music, and look just as elegant as you'll feel doing it. #kickassdancer
Level 2: Exploring variations on classic Slow Bal Moves
For dancers who have got the basic steps of Slow Bal down and are eager to add a bit of creative flair to their repertoire. In this level, we delve into exciting variations and explore different techniques to enhance your Slow Bal dance style. Join us this month to unlock new possibilities and infuse your dancing with unique twists and turns.
SIGN UP:
5/8 , 5/15 , 5/22 , 5/29
SLOW BAL 3
Intermediate
Instructors: Rachel + Rod
TBA
Vintage Swing dancing is alive and well in Portland! Swing music, both live and DJed at venues and events, span a wide variety of tempos. So when the music slows down we need a dance that matches the rhythms of these sweet sweet slow jams...enter Slow Bal!
Like Balboa, Slow Balboa is a vintage Swing dance that originated in Southern California in the 1920s, created specifically for slow tunes. It is best to already be familiar with Balboa before starting Slow Bal, as there are lots of fancy steps and Balboa fundamentals that are retooled so you can elegantly take advantage of the slow music, and look just as elegant as you'll feel doing it. #kickassdancer
Level 3: Elevate Your Game and Expand Your Skills
Congratulations on mastering the Slow Bal basics! If you're looking for a challenge and are eager to expand your dance skills, this level is perfect for you. Building upon the foundation you've already established, we'll dive deeper into the intricacies of Slow Bal and explore more advanced movements and techniques. Join us this month to take your dancing to new heights and discover exciting ways to enhance your style and expression.
SIGN UP:
BALBOA 2
Beyond Beginning
Instructors: Rod + Emily
TBA
Balboa is a dance that falls under the Swing umbrella that originated on the west coast, in contrast to its East Coast cousin the Lindy Hop. With up-tempo music, crowded dance floors (during pandemic, crowded living room!), and sometimes tiny venues, there is no better dance than Balboa to get you moving in situations just like these. In fact, it was born out of those very elements. Close connection and itty-bitty footwork are characteristic of this dance, making it ideal for space and energy conservation, while still swingin’ to the hot rhythms of the 1920s… and the 2010s!
This class is for dancers with some Balboa experience looking to expand their repertoire!
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Slow Dance Social
TBA
w/ Rod + Rachael
$10
Join us for a evening of dancing to slow music, where you’ll have the perfect opportunity to refine your dance floor craft in Slow Bal and other swing dance styles that harmonize with the music’s slow tempo. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just beginning, come and join us with your friends to explore dancing and combining the styles you’re most comfortable with. Rod and Rachael will kickstart the evening with a 30-minute lesson in Slow Bal, be present to dance with, and answer questions. Warm up with us for your Friday night dance activities.
Pay online in advance, or cash in person!
Pay Online -
SLOW BALBOA WORKSHOP
beyond beginning
Instructors: Rod + Rachael
TBA
Are you a fan of dancing to those slow jams? Are you ready to take your dancing to new heights? Join us for a workshop designed to refine your Slow Bal skills, specifically tailored for intermediate dancers (and above) with some prior Slow Bal experience. Led by the instructors Rod and Rachael, this immersive workshop is crafted to deepen your connection and expand your repertoire. We recommend having taken our Slow Bal class series or having gained a basic understanding elsewhere. Prepare for a class filled with enough valuable insights, engaging exercises, and expert guidance to enhance your technique and musicality. Come join us and let's have a blast refining your Slow Bal skills together!
SIGN UP!
Instructional Videos
Balboa VIDEO: Counter Body Technique (int/adv)
Instructors: Rod + Emily
Available Now!
Counter body technique! This short video will give you the basics of counter body technique to work on at home alone, or with someone you are stuck at home with (a pet maybe?)… This 10 minute video breaks down both the lead and follow footwork and upper body technique of this int/adv Balboa step. You get both videos when signing up for just 1 :). ~10 min
AND
Balboa VIDEO: Fun with Footwork (int/adv) w/Rod + Emily
Instructors: Rod + Emily
Available Now!
This video course will give experienced Balboa dancers some fun footwork to play with, and techniques for improving your footwork in general, while we are social distance-dancing on our own. Have fun! ~20 min
DOWNLOAD!
TIPS FOR SIGNING UP:
1. To get the video link you MUST BE OPTED IN to receive emails from us.
2. When you click on SIGN UP you’ll be directed to the mindbody registration software. Mindbody will redirect you to pay for the class if you have no existing credits in your account (if you do but they expired, email us and we will adjust so you can use them :)
3. If you have credits, just click SIGN UP NOW and you’ll be good to go. If you are redirected to pay, YOU MUST GO BACK TO THE CLASS AND CLISK SIGN UP NOW AGAIN! We don’t know why mindbody does this, sigh.
4. Now check your inbox for the REGISTRATION CONFIRMATION email (not the receipt of payment) - that’s where the link will be :)
5. Dance your lovely face off!
Drop In - $16
4 class pass - $55 online, expires 45 days from activation
8 class pass - $100 online, expires 45 days from activation