News and Information to find out where Connecticut dance enthusiasts gather.

Where Past Meets Present

2011-12-09T09:55:00.004-05:00

Take a look at this great video of some classic Charleston dancing once popular in the 1920's (yet still danced today by some), dubbed over with a song the from the electronic music duo Daft Punk. Not only do you see reminders of Lindy Hop, you can also find the beginnings of more modern urban street dance techniques.

The Kids/Teen Halloween Dance Party was Spooktacular!

2011-10-26T15:51:00.003-04:00

It was a full house at our recent Kids/Teen Halloween Dance Party...we were so excited to see so many young dancers and some great costumes!

Photos from Jeff Cobb's New York City Competition with Nicole

2011-09-09T13:24:00.004-04:00

Latin Workshop Continued

2011-08-10T11:17:00.000-04:00

Latin Workshop August 6, 2011

2011-08-10T10:01:00.001-04:00

Summer Dance Parties in Derby

2011-07-10T10:35:00.002-04:00

Our dance parties in Fairfield are still on hiatus as we (continue to) wait for the Scandinavian Club to fix the air conditioning... In the meantime we invite you to join us for weekly parties in our Derby studio (check our web schedule for exact dates). Our 2,000 square foot oak floor combined with a state of the art sound system and complimentary refreshments, make our parties the perfect place to meet up with friends and practice your moves with dancers of all levels. No partner is necessary. Doors open at 7:30 and $12 includes a free group lesson at 8. See you on the dance floor!

It's all happening Saturday

2011-06-23T22:22:00.004-04:00

We like to get out on the town a little ourselves once in a while so we're excited join the festivities at Derby Day this Saturday 6/25, on the green. Stop by our booth for some "sweet" deals or if you have a friend that's interested in dance, come take a FREE lesson with us at the studio (Saturday only).

If the duck race down the housatonic or the shopping hasn't worn you out (or the tour of the haunted opera house!), then come back and party with us at our Kids+Teen dance party from 6-9pm. $10 includes pizza, snacks and plenty of dancing!

Smooth Workshop June 11th

2011-06-06T08:36:00.005-04:00

We're really looking forward to this Saturday's Smooth workshop with four-time Ohio Star Ball finalist and ISTD American Smooth Champion Stephen Hevenor. If you'd like to deepen your knowledge of the smooth dances or are thinking of competing, this is a great workshop to attend--no matter what level you are.

The three hour intensive will be broken into sections including:
Posture + Position
Movement + Partnering
Musicality + Presentation

Join us from 1-4pm at the Derby studio, 33 Elizabeth St. Derby, CT. Cost is $75, RSVP to Michael at (203) 454-9200

Here's what Ballroom DanceSport students are saying about Steve:
"Steve's coaching is of the highest level, totally focused and just fantastic- he really was instrumental in preparing me for last week's comp- and certainly deserves credit (with Nicole, of course) for helping me finish first!" - Jeff C.

“Steve was a huge help to me in preparing for last weekend’s competition. He is so encouraging and positive but also so instructive. I feel like he has enabled me to raise the level of my smooth dancing.” - Kim R.

“Lessons I took with Steve were critical in winning a good mark at the competition last week. To the foundation I am trying to build with Nicole, Steve added the refinements which were still the essentials of "dancing". After all dancing is profound. Steve helped me feel the deepness of this art.” - Toshifumi B.

What to Bring to a Dance Competition

2011-05-24T16:07:00.003-04:00

We’ve practiced and practiced (and are still practicing!) and now we’re getting ready to head up to Springfield this weekend to the Dancing a la Carte competition. To help make sure you have everything you need, we’ve put together this check list of things we find useful.

Clothing

Dance clothes or costumes you will wear (more detail below)
Street clothes to hang out in or drive home in
Shoes: more than one pair if possible for back up or depending on the condition of the floor (fast or slow)
A sweater, shawl or even light robe to keep you warm (it’s usually very cold in the ballroom) and to protect your dance clothes from spills or snags

Dance Accessories

Towel – for perspiration
Safety pins – you never know when you’ll need one (and we have!)
Breath Mints
Water
High protein snack such as nuts or a protein bar. Sometimes it can be a long while between your heats
Dance shoe brush
Small bag to carry it all in

Men

Dark Socks
Belt(s)
Vest/Dance Jacket
Tie
Pants
Shirts (Ballroom and Latin)
Dance Shoes (Ballroom and Latin)
Hair Spray
Dark Underwear (in case you have a rip)
Vaseline (if you have patent leather shoes)

Women

Outfit: We recommend a trial run in your lesson ahead of time
Smooth dress
Latin dress
Pantyhose/Fishnets (if you wear them)
Dance Pants (very important if they are not built into your dress)
A button down shirt for the morning of the comp – you don’t want to ruin your hair after you spent so much time putting it up.
Dance shoes (closed toe for Ballroom, open toe for Latin)
Jewelry: Be sure it will stay secure and not catch or injure your partner

Make-up

Foundation
Blush
Face Powder
Lipstick
Eyeliner
Eye Shadow
Mascara
Nail Polish
Fake Eye Lashes (if applicable)
If you are doing any self-tanning, be sure to do this a day or two before the competition

Hair

Bobby pins
Hairspray
Gel/Glue

Misc

Hand Cream or body lotion – if you put it on your legs it keeps your dress from sticking to you
Baby Powder
Aspirin/Ibuprofen is always a good idea
Something to wash your face off with at the end of the day especially if you are leaving right after the comp
Safety pins – you never know what may happen
Clothing tape to avoid wardrobe malfunctions
Camera (although you may not be able to photograph or video in the ballroom)
Nail polish for touch ups or if you have a stocking run

Good Luck!!

Tiny Dancers

2011-05-22T09:20:00.004-04:00

One of the greatest things we love about ballroom dancing is that it doesn't matter if your 4 or 84... Take a look at students Michelangelo and Isabella (4 year old twins) working on their box step. If you have a budding ballroom dancer on your hands, ask us about our Kids/Teen program - a great summer activity!

JuJu & Michael

2011-05-05T19:18:00.001-04:00

Nicole & Alexander

2011-05-05T18:40:00.001-04:00

Ruth & Michael

2011-05-05T18:39:00.003-04:00

Annie & Josh

2011-05-05T18:39:00.001-04:00

Debbie & Michael

2011-05-05T18:38:00.001-04:00

Toshi & Nicole

2011-05-05T18:37:00.002-04:00

Agi & Michael

2011-05-05T18:37:00.001-04:00

Ruth & Josh

2011-05-05T18:36:00.003-04:00

Evelyn & Josh

2011-05-05T18:36:00.001-04:00

Jeff & Nicole

2011-05-05T18:35:00.001-04:00

Annie & Josh

2011-05-05T18:34:00.001-04:00

Judy & Michael

2011-05-05T18:33:00.001-04:00

Ballroom Kids/Teens

2011-05-05T18:32:00.002-04:00

Ruth & Michael

2011-05-05T18:32:00.001-04:00

Annie & Michael

2011-05-05T18:31:00.003-04:00

Jim & Nicole

2011-05-05T18:31:00.001-04:00

Agi & Michael

2011-05-05T18:30:00.003-04:00

Ruth & Josh

2011-05-05T18:30:00.001-04:00

Judy & Michael

2011-05-05T18:29:00.001-04:00

Rebeka & Michael

2011-05-05T18:28:00.001-04:00

Tracy & Josh

2011-05-05T18:27:00.001-04:00

Maryann & Michael

2011-05-05T18:26:00.000-04:00

Jeff & Josh

2011-05-05T18:25:00.000-04:00

Tara & Michael

2011-05-05T18:23:00.001-04:00

Social Dancing Etiquette and Tips

2011-04-28T10:37:00.003-04:00

Social dancing is a GREAT activity to get out and meet new friends or reconnect with old ones...However, like any social situation it does involve a certain level of etiquette. Here are a few tips to consider next time you go out to dance…

Inviting or accepting a dance: When you ask someone to dance, be sure to make eye contact with your prospective partner, offer your hand, and ask clearly, “Would you like to dance?” If your partner says yes, smile, offer your hand, and escort them onto the dance floor and into dance position. Don’t be afraid to ask people, no matter what level you are, and remember ladies, you can ask the guys to dance too!

This is a SOCIAL dancing, so try to be aware of your partner and engage them. Some people like to make conversation while dancing, others prefer to concentrate on the dance. Make eye contact, (but don't stare). It's fun to dance with a partner who is gracious and appreciative. Always say “Thank You” at the end of a dance.

Try dance to the level of your partner... challenge your partner, but don’t over-challenge them. Above all this should be fun!

Continue to hone your skills at the art of being a good leader or follower. If you stop learning, you risk developing bad habits, even if you are a seasoned dancer.

Don’t attempt tricky moves like a dip if you don’t know your partner very well or her dance level. Please be considerate, and if in doubt, go with a simpler move. Less can be more when done with skill.
NEVER instruct on the social dance floor, unless specifically asked. Know that your dance partner is doing the best he or she can. Classes and lessons are great for learning but social dancing is purely for fun.

Floor Craft: Your primary considerations on a crowded dance floor should be protecting your partner and respect for the other couples on the floor. Be aware of the environment around you and dance appropriately for how crowded the dance floor is. Mind the lanes of traffic or 'line of dance', this can prevent mishaps. If a collision does occur, be sure to stop and apologize regardless of who's fault it was.

Aerial moves are not appropriate for a crowded social dance floor- it can be dangerous, for you and those around you. The same goes for tricks or kicks which might be more larger than your average moves.

A few notes on grooming: Social dancing is an activity that requires a certain degree of physical closeness. Good hygiene shows respect and consideration for the other dancers. Dancers should bathe, use deodorant, breath mints, and wear clean clothes. If you tend to perspire a great deal it is considerate to bring a towel and/ or change of clothes. Your partners will thank you for it. Dancers should also use a light touch applying perfume or cologne. Some people may be sensitive to fragrances. Ladies, try to avoid clothing with adornments (beads, stones, sequins, etc.) that may scratch or injure your partner, and dance pants with short skirts or those that twirl are always a good idea.

Declining a dance: It's fine to decline an offer to dance if your taking a break to rest, politely explain this and perhaps promise to dance with them later on. If you’ve declined an invitation from one person, it’s impolite to accept a dance with someone else for that song. Never decline a dance because you don’t know the person, or they don’t dance at your level. One of the best ways to improve your dancing (beginner or advanced), is to dance with different partners of varying levels and styles. That being said, it is impolite to monopolize the same person all evening.

When to just say no: When a person asks you to dance, it is fine to say no if he or she has been physically or verbally abusive, drunk or otherwise threatening.

After the Dance: When the dance is finished, thank your partner and escort them back to their seat. Do not abandon your partner on the dance floor as soon as the song has ended.

Off the floor: Avoid cutting across the dance floor, especially when carrying food or drink, for your safety and those around you. Also, remember to move off the dance floor when engaged in conversation.

By using commonsense and consideration everyone can enjoy social dancing and focus on what it’s really about - having fun!

Spring Student Showcase April 30th

2011-04-26T08:10:00.002-04:00

We're looking forward to our Spring Student Showcase this Saturday April 30th, at 6:30pm in the Derby studio. Invite friends and family and join us for student dance performances, light tapas and refreshments, and general dancing till 11pm. RSVP to Michael at (203) 454-9200.

Valeria Carmel and Daniel Rodriguez Tango Patterns

2011-04-05T11:50:00.000-04:00

We're having company...

2011-04-04T14:25:00.007-04:00

If your passionate about argentine tango your in for a treat... This month dancers Daniel Rodriguez and Valeria Carmel will be joining us in the studio (read more about Daniel and Valeria below). We look forward to hosting upcoming workshops and classes with them, stay tuned to our web calendar for dates and times.

Daniel and Valeria in motion
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzWo6pbSyBw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0_AbXHda7U

Valeria Carmel has been performing and teaching Argentine tango for the past 14 years in Argentina and throughout the USA and Europe. Before working under her own name, she formed a 10-year dance partnership known as Pampa and Valeria Cortés, during which she gained worldwide recognition as a performer, choreographer and teacher, participating in various stage productions and tango festivals in the US, France, Germany and the Netherlands. She also taught in Buenos Aires at the Escuela Argentina de Tango and performed on various stages and famous milongas in Buenos AiresA French native, living across 3continents, Valeria studied ballet in France and with the San Joaquin Ballet in California, as well as modern jazz in France and in the US. In Argentina, besides training in tango with various maestros over the years, she trained in folk dancing with the Ballet Salta in Buenos Aires.

In her time living in California, she co-created and co-directed the following stage productions, featuring up to 12 Argentine performers: Argentina ! Tango & Malambos, Destino de Tango, and Fantasia Argentina. Over the years, she has developed a special “Tango Attitude” class for women, which she also offers within her wider and holistic concept of “Total Connection”.

Daniel Rodriguez combines a dance background in jazz and ballet, in addition to tango. Training in his native Buenos Aires with various tango maestros and milongueros, he later acquired his own polished and versatile style. Rodriguez performed on some famous stages of Buenos Aires such as Teatro Colón, Café Tortoni, Palais des Glaces, Tanguería Complejo Tango, as well as at the Confitería Ideal and Salón Canning. Guest teacher in England, France and across the United States, Rodriguez teaches at the Cultural Center Torquato Tasso and La Escuela de Tango in Buenos Aires. His teaching focuses especially on the dynamics and flow of the movement and the lead.

The New Ballroom Basics Class on Saturday Nights

2011-03-29T19:01:00.004-04:00

We had ten couples join us for the first Saturday Night Ballroom Basics Class. This is a great opportunity to get your spouse involved in ballroom dance, or to jump into the sport as a beginner-to-ballroom couple. Here's what one enthusiastic husband said in an email to us.

"Daria and I had an awesome time Saturday evening. The concept was great and the process(being a school teacher for 43 years) was great. We had a chance to meet new people. Two big things for me were, Daria, having a chance to review the basic steps and the ability at the end to practice, without the pressure of other very good dancers dancing around us, to practice and review different steps for each dance. The focus on instruction was AWESOME."

Ballroom Basics Highlights

2011-03-27T17:31:00.002-04:00

Highlights from our Ballroom Basics Class Saturday night.

Teen Ballroom Party

2011-03-23T18:32:00.000-04:00

Celebrate Spring!

2011-03-20T08:45:00.005-04:00

Temperatures are rising, the daffodils and crocuses are making their debut and sleepy winter days are behind us. While Mother Nature transforms the landscape we undergo our own transformation. There seems to be renewed energy in the atmosphere and we find ourselves generally more active. We can't think of a better way to kick off this season of new beginnings than with dance. We urge you to try a new class that maybe you've been thinking about or join us at a dance party...We will now be hosting a milonga every 2nd and 4th Friday in our Derby studio. This is a great opportunity to dance and watch 'milonga style' argentine tango with some of the local experts. We also will be hosting our first Ballroom Basics Party on Saturday March 26th. This will include a class from 6-7pm and then a guided practice from 7-8pm so you can put into "practice" what you learned in the lesson. Be sure to check our schedule for more great classes and upcoming events. See you on the dance floor!

Jeff Cobb Northeastern Comp Latin

2011-03-17T10:38:00.000-04:00

More Great Group Classes in 2 Locations

2011-03-07T16:46:00.006-05:00

We've really enjoyed seeing so many of you that have been joining our Tuesday night Argentine Tango classes in Fairfield. While a smaller class size can offer an intimate learning environment, larger classes provide an opportunity to practice new skills with many different partners. Most importantly though, either will improve your dancing. Not only will classes improve your dancing, you might just make a friend or two! If you can't make Tuesdays in Fairfield, not to worry, we've just added a new Argentine class in Derby on Monday nights at 7pm. Check the schedule on our website for more great classes in both locations and ask about our 'Group Class Cards' that will save you money! See you on the dance floor...

Jeff Cobb's Competition Spring 2011

2011-03-03T19:11:00.001-05:00

Upcoming Events...

2011-02-26T19:24:00.002-05:00

The snow is melting (a little), Spring is just around the corner (we hope) and we have lots of great offerings for March. Check our web schedule for dates and times for everything from Ballroom Cardio to Argentine Tango. Don't forget, you can use your class or party card in either our Fairfield or Derby location. Our next Milonga will be coming up on Friday March 11th and our Kids/Teen Party will be on Sat. March 12th. We look forward to seeing you!

Our First Milonga...

2011-02-19T19:25:00.003-05:00

Here are a few snapshots from our recent Milonga. Our next one is coming up on Friday March 11th. In the meantime, join us for our new Argentine tango class every Tuesday night at 7:45 in our Fairfield studio.

Will you be my...dance partner?

2011-01-26T10:38:00.004-05:00

Sweep your Valentine off their feet this year with a Ballroom DanceSport gift certificate. Dancing is a wonderful way to reconnect after a busy day, get fit and above all, have fun. For added convenience we can even email it to you.

Kids & Teen Dance Party Sat. Feb. 12th

2011-01-13T12:53:00.004-05:00

We all need a break from this winter weather...warm up with us on the dance floor at our Kids & Teens Dance Party, Saturday Feb. 12th, from 6-9pm. Just $10 includes a class, pizza and snacks and plenty of dancing. Come join the fun! RSVP to Michael at (203) 454-9200

Staying Active Despite the Temperature

2011-01-09T13:07:00.005-05:00

Winter brings beautiful snowfall and evenings by the fire, but it also means shorter days and cold temperatures which can make it hard to stay active. Our favorite way to beat the winter blues is--you guessed it--dancing! Practicing steps and patterns keeps you mentally sharp, both fast and slow dances are great physical exercise and staying socially active can help ward off depression and even dementia later in life. Come join us for a class in either of our locations, it's hard to be blue when your dancing a Hustle!

Holiday Party in Derby

2010-12-30T09:42:00.006-05:00

Everyone turned out in their holiday best to dance the night away and celebrate. We're looking forward to seeing you in the New Year!

Holiday Gift Certificates

2010-12-20T09:56:00.001-05:00

It's not too late to give the gift of dance, surprise that someone special with a Ballroom DanceSport gift certificate that can be used in either of our two locations.

Kids Ballroom Holiday Dance Party 2010

2010-12-13T18:47:00.000-05:00

Jeff & Yach Spotlight November 2010

2010-12-06T11:12:00.001-05:00

Unlimited Group Classes only $149!

2010-11-29T16:06:00.000-05:00

Don't miss out on our holiday Special: UNLIMITED GROUP CLASSES for Nov. and Dec. only $149--Use it for classes in Fairfield AND Derby!

Irene @ The Spotlight

2010-11-16T15:00:00.000-05:00

Come and learn the dance that's got everyone joining in

2010-11-16T10:37:00.002-05:00

We're incorporating the "Flash Mob" sequence into our regular West Coast Swing classes every Monday night at 7:45 at our Derby Studio. Move over Electric Slide... Flash Mob is so 2011

Yea Annie!

2010-11-15T18:14:00.002-05:00

Thank you Annie for taking ALL the videos for the Spotlight. You did an amazing job ... avoiding large pillars and keeping the camera trained on the ever-moving target.

Alexander @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T16:07:00.001-05:00

Agi @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T16:06:00.001-05:00

Ballroom Kids @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T16:05:00.001-05:00

Francesca @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T16:04:00.001-05:00

Evelyn @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T16:03:00.003-05:00

Jeff @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T16:02:00.001-05:00

Joe @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T16:01:00.002-05:00

Judy @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T16:01:00.001-05:00

Juliana @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T16:00:00.001-05:00

Kelly & Josh @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:59:00.001-05:00

Nicole & Michael @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:58:00.001-05:00

Norma @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:57:00.001-05:00

Ruth @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:55:00.001-05:00

Tara @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:52:00.000-05:00

Theresa @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:49:00.000-05:00

Toshe @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:48:00.003-05:00

Tracie @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:48:00.001-05:00

Josh & Yach @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:46:00.000-05:00

Elaine @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:45:00.001-05:00

Rebeka @ The Spotlight

2010-11-15T15:40:00.000-05:00

Ballroom DanceSport Kids/Teen Alum Keeps on Dancing

2010-11-15T13:52:00.003-05:00

Nov 9th Hustle Class and Ballroom Basics Wed. Nite Class

2010-11-11T11:56:00.000-05:00

Hustle & Rumba Classes Tues November 2, 2010

2010-11-06T18:02:00.000-04:00

Spotlight Dance November 13th

2010-11-06T09:56:00.002-04:00

We're looking forward to our Spotlight Dance Party, Saturday Nov. 13th and hope you'll join us! Come for dinner, dancing and student dance performances.
Doors open at 6pm
Student spotlights from 6:30-7:30
Dinner 7:30-8
Student spotlights 8-9
Open dancing till 9-11pm
$25/person includes a catered dinner by Bruckner's Good to Go, wine and dessert.
RSVP today to Michael at (203) 454-9200

Kids Classes in Fairfield start Nov. 3rd

2010-11-01T19:23:00.009-04:00

Do you have an aspiring dancer on your hands? Ballroom DanceSport KIDS classes are starting Nov. 3rd in our Fairfield studio, every Wednesday at 4pm. Ages 6-18.
Call us to reserve a spot (203) 454-9200

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2010-10-31T08:37:00.002-04:00

Some great costumes turned up at our Friday night dance party in Derby. Wishing you a safe and happy holiday.

2010-10-11T13:43:00.006-04:00

SAVE THE DATE to DANCE FOR THE CURE: We have a very special dance coming up on Sat. Oct. 23rd. Join us for an evening of dancing, special treats, raffle prizes, dessert and coffee. 7:30-11pm, $20 Donation (a percentage of the proceeds will be donated to the Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Center at Bridgeport Hospital). Call us to reserve your spot!

2010-10-10T09:40:00.003-04:00

Have a special event, photoshoot or holiday gathering coming up? Our Derby studio may be just the right location for you. We have a beautiful art deco style space with hand-painted ceilings, original brass fixtures, 2000sq. ft. oak dance floor, seating, and state of the art sound system. Come in and see us (33 Elizabeth Street.), we'd love to show you around!

Thursday Night @ The Scandinavian Club

2010-09-27T12:39:00.009-04:00

This week everyone learned some new rumba steps and then danced the rest of the night.

Come join us.

Thursday Nights at the Scandinavian Club!

2010-07-28T14:50:00.007-04:00

Come join the fun! Dance starts at 7:30-Lesson at 8pm!

Saturday night Party in Derby!

2010-07-12T18:36:00.006-04:00

Another great party this Saturday! Over fifty dancers showed up to dance and celebrate a few birthdays. In a rare occurrence, four of five Stavola children were in attendance and did an impromptu cha cha at the end of the evening. (Pictures on the way) Ian stopped in before heading off to Afghanistan on his first tour of duty. He was very grateful for all the warm wishes.

LATEST NEWS & NOTES-

2010-06-18T16:39:00.001-04:00

After scouring the area for a new location I am pleased to announce that we will be relocating our Westport location to the Scandinavian club beginning July 6th.
We are tentatively planning our first Thursday night dance for the 15th.
Thursday night parties will begin at 7:30 with a brief lesson at 8:00.
Hours of operation for private and group instruction will be Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4:00 - 10:00.
We will be closed the third Tuesday of the month.
As part of my agreement with the club I will be conducting my lessons in Swedish from now on. I don't think my students will notice.
I have just started to learn how to upload videos to our blog so check and let me know what you think as I tussle with technology.
That is all for now.

Swing May Competition 2010 Michael & Marta, Alexander & Christina

2010-06-16T21:31:00.001-04:00

Multicultural Magnet school - Michael's third grade class performs the merengue!

2010-06-16T19:15:00.000-04:00

My third grade class performed this dance for their school spring showcase. This was their dress rehearsal the day before the show. My favorite part was the finish!

Julianna Cha cha May competition 2010

2010-06-15T20:47:00.001-04:00

Dancing a la carte May 2010
Julianna dancing the cha cha with Michael

Stavola Lindy Hop-Alexander and Nicole, JuJu and Michael

2010-06-15T18:38:00.002-04:00

About Michael Stavola

2009-08-05T11:29:00.001-04:00

Michael Stavola, the founder and director of Ballroom DanceSport with two studios in Westport and Derby, Connecticut, is a certified dance professional who has been dancing and teaching ballroom dancing for over 30 years. Michael has competed both professionally and as a pro-amateur teacher in countless dance competitions where he has been awarded Top Teacher Awards. He is passionate about instilling the love of dance in children of all ages, from 6 to 16 years old, through his non-profit organization Connecticut Kids Dance! and his Ballroom Kids dance program, designed specifically to teach ballroom dance to kids in a fun and social atmosphere. He is also currently involved with the City of Bridgeport Lighthouse Project, imparting his love of dance to the children of the public schools in Bridgeport, teaching in-school dance classes and holding semi-annual dance competitions for them to perform what they have learned.

Michael is responsible for the ballroom dancing clubs in Fairfield University and Sacred Heart University. Michael has instructed at Norwalk Community College, numerous schools throughout Connecticut as well as the adult continuing education programs for Fairfield and other locales. Locally, he teaches the summer ballroom dance classes for the Fairfield Parks and recreation and runs after school ballroom programs for the Easton Recreation Department.

Ballrooom Kids 2007 Dance Spotlight!

2008-01-08T16:23:00.000-05:00

Club Ballroom and Ballroom DanceSport Kids perform at their Spotlight Dance at Club Ballroom after a 12 week dance session. Lots of fun was had!

CONGRATS YACH AND MIKE!!!!

2007-12-21T18:04:00.000-05:00

Fransisco Foquera and Natalia Hills come to Club Ballroom

2007-10-18T20:46:00.001-04:00

Fransisco Foquera and Natalia Hills came to Club Ballroom to teach a wonderful Argentine Tango dance workshop. Fransisco and Natalia are considered the world's most acclaimed Argentine Tango dancers, and after Saturday's workshops we can all see why!
Here are a few of their laudable achievements:

Principal dancers in "Forever Tango" on Broadway, London, and Paris
Featured worldwide in "Tango Passion" (Hollywood Bowl - Las Angeles Philharmonic)
Performed by special invitation for Princess Diana Spencer at the British Embassy in Buenos Aries

Needless to say, this couple was fantastic! We had a brief respite after the workshops then headed to the Greek Orthodox Church in Bridgeport for Bob Beslove's monthly dance where Fransisco and Natalia were the featured dancers of the month (check out this article written about one of Bob's recent dances). Ian and Kelly did their Argentine Tango routine (seen here....sorry about the poor quality) as the "opening act." Then the real show began. Fransisco and Natalia did four amazing routines. Unfortunately, there is no video of the dances because they are top secret and they didn't want them ending up on youtube. The night ended with Bob and Michael presenting Fransisco and Natalia with a plaque commemorating that day which the mayor named "Fransisco Foquera and Natalia Hills day"

LOTS OF FUN HAD AT MOHEGAN SUN COMPETITION!

2007-10-16T19:29:00.001-04:00

Grand Opening Party Success!!!

2007-06-10T16:02:00.001-04:00

The grand opening night for Ballroom Dancesport moving to Westport was a great success! Thank you to all who came to make it a wonderful evening! We look forward to more evenings of dancing...Don't forget, we will be dancing every Thursday evening and every 2nd Saturday of the month! Here are a few photos...more will be coming!