The Beginning Whip/West Coast Swing Superclass returns on Sundays and Thursdays in May. We start with Sundays at 4:30 and add our parallel class on Thursdays at 7 pm.

We call this a "Superclass" for five reasons. 

First SSQQ has the only program in town that allows you to take the course on 2 different nights for the price of one.
Second, no other program runs for two hours like ours does. While all other classes meet for one hour a week, if you choose to come both nights, you will see progress far more quickly with four hours of instruction!  That is "Super" right there, but there is more.
Each night after class we open up our studio for an hour and a half of practice. The other programs are so limited that THEIR students come over to SSQQ to join our practice. Best of all, this class has four levels.
No other program in Houston combines Whip with the West Coast Swing like SSQQ does. The Texas Whip was the only game in town for forty years until West Coast migrated in during the mid 90s. This posed a loyalty challenge for many instructors. It became common for teachers to teach one system or the other. SSQQ teaches both Whip and West Coast Swing side by side and we show you how easy it is to merge the two systems. Pretty soon you won't even know they are two different dances. 
Fifth, each month your group will graduate and be able to move up to the next level with the same two night a week offer for four months. Two nights a week, two hours a class for four months. Throw in our free Practice Night and you will be groomed to zoom when you graduate!

No one ever said Whip and West Coast Swing are easy to learn. You will soon discover the four hours a week gives you a fighting chance to catch on to these two complicated dances. Flashy footwork, sexy hip motion, intricate patterns, and eye-catching turns make Whip/WCS a popular option for all dancers seeking new challenges.

Beginning Ballroom Dance
Linda
This course is the SSQQ "Introduction to Ballroom Dancing".

It includes the basics of Foxtrot, Waltz, and Big Band Swing. Foxtrot is the dance for weddings and Sinatra music. Waltz is the Cinderella's dance of romance and elegance. Big Band Swing is "Mack the Knife" and "In the Mood" with fast dancing and turns. This course is perfect for beginners who want a good place to start learning more about Ballroom Dance. 

Please note next month we have a follow-up class called Latin Carnival which covers Cha Cha, Rumba, and Tango. Two months of these Introductory classes should give you a perfect overview of the world of Latin/Ballroom dance!
 

Beginning Ballroom

We will have a Beginning Ballroom class on Monday evenings at 7 pm in May with Tracy and Jill.

You probably have not a clue how complex learning to Ballroom dance can be. For starters, there are two major categories (Smooth and Latin) and two major styles (American and International). Then there are "Street Dances" and "Nightclub Dances" that are spinoffs of the Ballroom dances.

The "Smooth" Ballroom dances include Foxtrot, Waltz, and Tango as the most famous three dances. For experts, you also have Quickstep and Viennese Waltz. 

The "Latin" Ballroom dances, also sometimes known as "Rhythm Dances" include Cha-Cha, Rumba, Samba, East Coast Swing, Mambo, and Bolero.

However depending on what part of the world you live in, Mambo could be replaced by Salsa, East Coast Swing could be replaced by Jive, Tango could be replaced by Argentine Tango, and Twostep or Slow Dancing could be substituted for Foxtrot.  Is your head spinning yet?

Fortunately we simplify everything in our Beginning Ballroom class by sticking to four dances - Foxtrot, Waltz, Tango, and Rumba. In other words, this class gives you a pretty good overview of Ballroom Dancing in just one short month.  Foxtrot is the dance for Sinatra music, Waltz is considered the most beautiful dance in the world, Tango is the dark and mysterious dance of Count Dracula, and Rumba is a marvelous dance perfect to use to sensual slow Jazz rhythms. 

Then once you learn enough about each dance to make some educated decisions, the next month we will have follow-up classes that concentrate strictly on one or two dances.  

BEGINNING SALSA - Kelly
Prerequisite: No requirements

Salsa Dancing came to the forefront of America's consciousness with Ricky Martin's "Living La Vida Loca" in 2000.  In the years since Salsa has pushed Swing Dancing aside and Western Dancing aside to become the most popular form of Dancing in the entire country. Unlike most dance crazes that come and go within a year or two, Salsa just keeps growing and growing.

There are a few people on the Planet who still don't know how to Salsa. If you are one of them and you want to enjoy the great party we are having tonight, then this is the course to take.  Beginning Salsa is where it all starts.

Intermediate Salsa II

Advanced Salsa Prep I

Advanced Salsa Prep I was developed by David Schroeder as another tool to help SSQQ Salsa students bridge the huge gap between Intermediate Salsa and Advanced Salsa.  The class works exactly as its name suggests: it is a PREPARATION CLASS to get you ready for the Advanced Salsa program.

Currently Advanced Salsa on Tuesday night has 75 students!  It is an enormous class and the pace is swift. There is no time for individual instruction. You either know your fundamentals or you don't.  And if you don't have your basics down ahead of time, this class will eat you for lunch.

Advanced Salsa Preparation is a bridge between the Intermediate Salsa classes and the difficult Advanced Salsa classes. This class works on the tricky Salsa inside turns/outside turns/1 1/2 turns/spot turns/and hook turns that are so important in Advanced Salsa. Unfortunately once you get to Advanced, they don't have time to break these turns down. You are expected to KNOW THEM ahead of time and this course is where you learn them well!

DARYL’S FAVORITE GHOST TOWN PATTERNS 
- The Daryl Armstrong Experience
Prerequisite: Red Underwear and Hawaiian Shirts

No one knows which are Daryl Armstrong's favorite Ghost Town Patterns because no one has ever seen Daryl dance in public, much less lead a Ghost Town pattern. Does Daryl even know a Ghost Town pattern?   After all, no one on the ssqq staff has ever actually SEEN Daryl teach anything. We all think he does it with mirrors and silly shirts. Plus there is a nasty rumor going around the studio that Daryl has been watching other instructors dance in a suspicious way during Practice Night.  This hints at the possibility that whoever takes this course may actually end up teaching Daryl some of their own GT Patterns instead.  There is so much mystery surrounding this class!!  

LEATHER AND LACE WHIP PATTERNS - Rick
Prerequisite: Couples only, Lunar Whip and higher

Get out the Whips and Chains. Get ready to move your Hips. This the Night the ancient legend of the Dirty Whip comes back to embarrass the good people and delight the wicked.  Imagine that this provocative pickup dance has been set free from Pandora's Box to work its dark magic once again. The Dirty Whip is a very naughty dance that over the years has been sanitized and softened to allow more tender souls to participate. Well, tender souls should stay home. This class is for Adults Only. This is the night the Dirty Whip will once more be allowed to awaken passions!  Shed your inhibitions and join in the fun to learn lascivious, tantalizing, mouth-watering Whip moves, the perfect moves for the right night to practice them. 

PS - No partner, No Get to Play.  And Beginners get lost -  Martians and Lunatics only.

CAROLINA SHAG - Allison
Pre-req: Previous knowledge of East or West Coast Swing helpful

The Carolina Shag is an interesting cross between East Coast Swing (what we call Swing at SSQQ) and West Coast Swing (aka Whip). 

The Shag is famous in the Carolina's. There was a Bridgette Fonda movie about 8 years ago called "Shag" which explained that the Shag is a way of life at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Further glory was obtained in the popular song by the Western group Alabama called "Shaggin' on the Boulevard". Shaggin' was also prominent in the recent Austin Powers movie, but we won't go there. 

Featuring fabulous footwork, the Shag fits a wide variety of music, but basically it works to slower Swing songs. No pre-req, but it might help to know this dance is tricky !

The Rumba is a slow, very elegant dance that is quite sensual and provocative. 

The Rumba was a popular dance in middle class Cuba before World War II. It was introduced into America in the 1920's and 1930s.

Rumba is sometimes called the "Latin Waltz" or "a Waltz with a Sizzle". Indeed the patterns to both dances are practically interchangeable while the "Look" of the two dances is completely different.

The Rumba is a "spot dance" because it is danced in one spot on the floor. The character is romantic and sexy due to the style known used cuban hip motion.

Danced to certain popular music (e.g. the Beatles’ classic “And I Love Her”) and to slow beautiful Latin rhythms (Besame Mucho), a modern use for the Rumba is to slow jazz music such as Diana Krall's "The Look of Love" or Celine Dion's "Falling into You". It is an exceptionally graceful, sensual dance that is fairly easy to learn.

Sometimes the dance floor is so small or the place is so packed that you barely have room to stand up, much less dance. This CC covers all sorts of fancy Swing patterns that you can do in "closed dance position", i.e. dancing with the lady in the man's arms to protect her and to conserve space. 

Please note this is an Advanced class, so if you are a beginner, steer clear. Thanks!!

Rueda is a Salsa Dance for several couples working together as a team. This dance is quite popular in Miami and LA, but has never caught on Houston.

Basically each couple does the same pattern which includes switching partners. In a way, Rueda is similar to Round Dancing in that the patterns are memorized and a caller synchronizes the next steps.  To read an extensive two-page writeup on Salsa Rueda, click here

This course assumes you have completed Intermediate Salsa or its equivalent. The Rueda Circle is only as strong as its weakest link... everyone has to have some experience for this dance to be fun.

We are offering this course because it is absolute fun and our group will be the hit of the party later on tonight!

"Rueda" is Spanish for "Circle".  Rueda is a particular type of round dancing of Salsa.  Rueda is a Salsa Dance for several couples working together as a team. This dance is quite popular in Miami and LA, but has never caught on Houston like it has in other cities.

Also known as Rueda de Casino, Salsa Rueda, and Casino Rueda, Salsa Rueda was developed in Havana, Cuba in the late 1950s and early 1960s.  Its development was credited to the famous group Guaracheros de Regla. One of its main choreographers and creators was Jorge Alfaro from San Miguel del Padrón, a soloist of a comparsa.

Pairs of dancers form a circle, with dance moves called out by one person, a caller (or 'Líder' or 'cantante' in Spanish). Many moves have hand signs to complement the calls; these are useful in noisy venues, where spoken calls might not be easily heard. Many of the moves involve the swapping of partners.

The names of the moves are mostly in Spanish, some in English (or Spanglish; e.g., "un fly"). Some names are known in slightly different versions, easily recognizable by Spanish-speaking dancers, but may be confusing to the rest.

Although the names of the calls are presently the same across the board, the different towns in Cuba use their own calls. This was due to the fact that when the pioneers of Rueda de Casino started, they wanted to keep others from participating in their Rueda. Nowadays many local variations of the calls can be found. They can change from town to town or even from teacher to teacher.

Casino Rueda scenes may be seen in the movie Dance with Me and in the music video clip No me dejes de querer by Gloria Estefan

Basically each couple does the same pattern which includes switching partners. In a way, Rueda is similar to Square Dancing in that the patterns are memorized and a caller synchronizes the next steps.  (Rick Archer's Note: To read an extensive writeup on Salsa Rueda, click here)

Here at SSQQ, this August course assumes you have completed at least Beginning Salsa, but preferably some Intermediate Salsa as well.  The Rueda Circle is only as strong as its weakest link... everyone has to have some experience for this dance to be fun.
 

BALLROOM WALTZ 
- Jill
No Prerequisite

Waltz is the legendary dance of Romance.  When women think of Waltz, they think of Cinderella at the Ball with flowing gowns and graceful swirling turns around the floor. Every girl feels like a Princess as she floats to beautiful Waltz music. 

This Beginning level course shows you all the moves you need to Waltz the Night Away. Although many students at our studio are more familiar with Western Waltz, they might be surprised to find all Western Waltz patterns are drawn from Ballroom Waltz. 

Western Waltz moves are simply Ballroom Waltz patterns that "travel" around the floor. Tonight learn some of the famous Ballroom Waltz moves such as the Turning Box, the Promenade, and many turns. 

Any man who can dance a Waltz will receive many smiles and hugs from his favorite partner - especially at a Valentines Party! And that's no fairy tale. 

Although many students at our studio are more familiar with Western Waltz, they might be surprised to find all Western Waltz patterns are drawn from Ballroom Waltz. 

Western Waltz moves are simply Ballroom Waltz patterns that "travel" around the floor. Tonight learn some of the famous Ballroom Waltz moves such as the Turning Box, the Promenade, and many turns. Then expect to see lots of Irish Waltzes played later at the St Patrick's Party.

Beginning Waltz

Waltz is the legendary dance of Romance.  When women think of Waltz, they think of Cinderella at the Ball with flowing gowns and graceful swirling turns around the floor. Every girl feels like a Princess as she floats to beautiful Waltz music.  Waltz is also the timeless symbol of grace, elegance, and romance. Here we cover the basic Waltz patterns such as the Box, the Promenade, the Twinkle, plus Inside and Outside Turns to this glamorous and beautiful dance.  When "Auld Lang Syne" comes on at your New Years Party, you will be ready to Waltz in the New Year in style.

VIENNESE WALTZ - Judy
Pre-req: Beginners welcome, but this is a tough dance!

Colorful flowing, gowns!  Tails!  Beautiful music!  Strong melodies!  Couples swirling in elegance! 

Waltz is named from the old German word "walzen" which means to roll, turn, or to glide.  The Waltz is a dance born in the suburbs of Vienna and in the alpine region of Austria.  As early as the seventeenth century, waltzes were played in the ballrooms of the Hapsburg court.  The Waltz started as a peasant dance, but by the end of the eighteenth century, this old Austrian peasant dance had been accepted by high society, and its distinctive three-quarter rhythm was here to stay.

The waltz was given a tremendous boost around 1830 by two great Austrian composers - Franz Lanner and Johann Strauss.  These two composers were by far the most popular during the nineteenth century: they set the standard for the Viennese Waltz, (a very fast version of the Waltz). 

BEG SALSA MERENGUE - Jim
Pre-req: No pre-requisite

Merengue is a major Salsa dance known as the "Walking Dance". When you dance Merengue, you take a step on each beat of the music.  

Featuring terrific hip motion and fun patterns, Merengue is a major dance in the Latin clubs!  "Salsa" is of course the dominant dance at the Salsa clubs, but Merengue music gets played often as well so it is an important dance to add to your repertoire. 

 Merengue is lots of fun and very easy to learn. 

Intermediate Salsa Merengue 
- Jim
Pre-req:  Must have finished Beg Salsa Merengue

Merengue is the major Salsa dances known as the "Walking Dance". You take a step on each beat of the music. Featuring terrific hip motion and fun patterns, Merengue is a major dance in the Latin clubs ! 

This course covers tricky Intermediate level Merengue patterns. Please do not take this course unless you have completed our Beginning Merengue course. 

ADV SALSA MERENGUE - Judy
Pre-req: Completion of the SSQQ
Beginning Merengue class

Merengue is the Salsa dance known as the "Walking Dance". Unlike the syncopated Salsa Mambo, when you dance Merengue you take a step on each beat of the music. Featuring terrific hip motion, easy to learn and fun to dance, Merengue is a huge part of the Latin dance scene!! 

This course covers many advanced Merengue patterns. Please however do not take this course unless you have completed our Beginning Merengue course. 

SWING ACROBATICS - Paul 
Pre-req:

Nothing captures the attention of an audience like Swing Acrobatics!  Any time you go dancing, a surefire way to make sure Everyone remembers you is to take Swing Acrobatics!!

Flips, Dips, Drops, & Lifts guarantee all eyes in the room will be drawn to you. These moves are difficult to master until you learn the secrets of leverage and timing. This course will cover some of the easier Acrobatic patterns.

Note that we require partners. The reason is simple: Acrobatics require choreography and teamwork. You must know who your partner is ahead of time to develop trust and to work out your timing together.

The patterns taught will depend on the skill of the people taking the class. 

ANDREW’S FAVORITE SWING PTNS - Andrew Wupper
Pre-req: Completion of Advanced Swing

No telling what Andrew has cooked up for you, but don't expect much mercy. This course should be considered along the difficulty of a Zoot Suit Level class. 

Andrew was a member of one of Houston's top Swing teams for a year and picked up some smoking Swing patterns along the way. Expect him to run you ragged ! 

ARGENTINE TANGO 
– Don

As opposed to American Tango which is more structured and memorized, Argentine Tango is more creative and improvisational. With an emphasis on intricate footwork including foot flicks, leg wraps, and swivels, Argentine Tango is a wonderful dance!

People ask all the time what the difference is between American and Argentine and International Tango. Here is a wonderful quote :

"The forms of tango are like stages of a marriage. The American tango is like the beginning of a love affair, when you’re both very romantic and on your best behavior.

The Argentine tango is when you’re in the heat of things and all kinds of emotions are flying: passion, anger, humor.

The International tango is like the end of the marriage, when you’re staying together for the sake of the children."

BEGINNING LINDY HOP 
- Maureen
Pre-req : Beginning Swing

The Lindy Hop was America's first Swing dance. It is a wonderful cross between Jitterbug,

rleston, and Shag.

Popular in the 20's through World War II, the Lindy disappeared for 40 years, but has enjoyed a renewed interest stimulated by the emergence of 90's Swing music !

People ask what is the difference between Swing and Lindy. Generally speaking, Lindy consists of 8-count patterns and Swing of 6-count patterns, although both dances can have patterns using both counts. The Lindy's 8-count allows for greater styling and interpretive movement but, socially, the Lindy is danced to slightly slower music while Swing works better to faster music.

BEG SALSA MAMBO!! 
- Andrew C

Mambo is another name for Salsa. When someone says they dance "Salsa", they usually mean "Mambo", not the other Salsa dance known as the "Merengue".

Brought to fame in movies like "Dirty Dancing", "Mambo Kings", and "Salsa" as well as the recent Vanessa William's movie "Dance With Me", Salsa has reached new pinnacles of excitement with the exciting music of Ricky Martin, Gloria Estafan, and many other Latin artists.

Danced to the sexy, pulsating Salsa rhythms, Mambo has patterns similar to Cha Cha, but is danced much more quickly with lots of hip motion.

20s CHARLESTON! 
- Judy

Judy intends to teach you everything you ever wanted to know about Charleston!  The course will be presented in Line Dance form. You will learn an easy Charleston Line Dance in Hour One and a hard Charleston Line Dance in Hour Two. Then we will dance the Line Dances at the party later on. 

Zoot Suit Riot is SSQQ's most advanced Swing course. Judy has discovered some new patterns, so come and check them out! 

Although many students at our studio are more familiar with Western Waltz, they might be surprised to find all Western Waltz patterns are drawn from Ballroom Waltz. 

Western Waltz moves are simply Ballroom Waltz patterns that "travel" around the floor. Tonight learn some of the famous Ballroom Waltz moves such as the Turning Box, the Promenade, and many turns. Then expect to see lots of Irish Waltzes played later at the St Patrick's Party.

Shaggie Jitterbug - Rachel
Pre-req: None

Also known "Street Swing" or "High School Swing", but here at SSQQ we refer to this unique style of Swing Dancing as Shaggie Jitterbug, the Forbidden Dance. Shaggie Jitterbug is best known for its popularity at a certain Texas university we are prevented from mentioning for fear of legal action. 

(You don’t believe us?? Go look for yourself!!  http://ssqq.com/archive/vinlin12.htm )

The “Shaggie” can vary from the primitive forms used in high school to the fast,  eye -catching Swing dancing as danced in many of Houston's Western clubs. 

Full of energy and famous moves like the Pretzel, the Rope, and the Weave, the Shaggie Jitterbug can look pretty fancy when it is danced well.  

The Shaggie Jitterbug is a very useful dance for Beginning Swing dancers to learn due to its relative simplicity.

AGGIE JITTERBUG - Rachel
Prerequisite:  None

Also known "Street Swing", "High School Bop", this unique style of Swing Dancing is usually referred to around the state as "Aggie Jitterbug" or "Aggie Swing".

Aggie Jitterbug can vary from the rough form used in high school to the fast, eye-catching Swing Dance often seen in Houston's Western clubs. 

Aggie Jitterbug includes famous moves like the Pretzel and the Rope. When it is done right, Aggie Jitterbug can look pretty fancy.

The main advantage for learning Aggie Jitterbug is the relative simplicity of the dance.  If you ever run across a partner who doesn't know traditional Swing footwork or can't keep the beat, Aggie Jitterbug is a very useful tool in any dancer's arsenal.

Beginning Swing dancers are welcome to join due to the relative simplicity of Aggie Jitterbug.
 

Danced to slow, romantic songs, Night Club is an unusual dance that is best described as an "active" form of Slow Dancing.  Combining a special blend of Ballroom patterns taken from Rumba, Bolero, Foxtrot, and Waltz, Night club is a pretty dance to watch and fun to use. Nor is it difficult to learn.

A unique feature of Night Club is that it is danced apart. This allows people without romantic partners to dance to Slow Music in a very stylish manner.  You would be surprised at the number of songs that would normally be considered "Slow Music" that suddenly become exciting to dance to once you master this unique dance. 

In recent years, Night Club has become a fixture on the Country-Western competition dance circuit. It works perfectly to Western ballads such as "Breathe" by Faith Hill.
 

BEG NIGHT CLUB - Anita
Night Club is an interesting dance that is described as an "up-tempo" Slow Dance, assuming your sensibilities can handle such an obvious oxymoron. Popular first in California and now making its way across the country, Night Club is a triple-step dance that combines a little bit of several dances and adds some twists of its very own. A major part of Western Dance competitions, Night Club is danced to romantic Western ballads such as Faith Hill's "Breathe". 

Shim Sham Line Dance 
and the Jitterbug Stroll - Patty O 
Pre-req: None

Back at the Savoy Ballroom during the Charleston era of the 20s, the Shim Sham was a popular line dance the dancers would perform regularly. When interest in the Lindy Hop revived in the 90s, the Shim Sham returned to life as well!  This crash course will teach the Shim Sham and another popular Swing line dance, the Jitterbug Stroll. Afterwards we will perform both dances at the St. Patrick’s Party!

BEG TEXAS TWOSTEP 
- Heidi

The Texas Twostep is the most important Country and Western dance. It is easy to learn and fun to use. From George Strait's "Fool Hearted Memory" to Shania Twain's "Holding onto Love", the Twostep is used to a wide variety of C&W music. 

When you live in Houston, Texas, you should get plenty of opportunities where a little knowledge of the Twostep will come in pretty handy. And don't forget the Twostep is a fixture at Rodeo time. Come learn the fundamentals of this famous dance !

TWOSTEP/POLKA CIRCLE TURNS 
-  Mo
Pre-Requisite: The Ability to Twostep and Polka ahead of time. 

This is an intermediate course for students who have already have taken our Beginner Twostep/Polka course. Circle Turns are a big part of Western dancing. In fact, there is a similarity to Circle Turns and Tequila drinking challenges. Men learn Circle Turns to make the girls dizzy and weaken their resistance. Women learn to turn well to keep their wits about them and to put men in their proper place. This course covers all the tricks to the multiple clockwise and counter clockwise Circle Turns including Cross Steps, Braces, Spotting, and Cross Body Leads.  

WESTERN LINE DANCES 
- Jeannette Baseliers 

Jeannette has recently moved to Houston. She is used to be a very active line dancer in the UK and The Netherlands. She has not yet been able to find line dancing in Houston (much to her regret!!). Jeannette would like to organize some other people who are also interested in Line Dancing to participate in this workshop and then dance what you learned at the party afterwards.

Jeannette was a very active line dancer in the UK and The Netherlands. Since her recent move to Houston, she has been aggressively working to create a line dancing club here in the Space City. Jeannette would like to meet people who are  interested in Line Dancing. This Crash Course covers some of the popular Western line dances and then dance what you learned at the party afterwards.

BEG WESTERN WALTZ - Karen
Prerequisite: None

Western Waltz is considered the "Romantic" Western dance. The stakes being what they are, no sensible man should ignore this important dance!  The moves are quite graceful and the music is very pretty.

Western Waltz patterns are taken from Ballroom Waltz. Some Waltz patterns travel and others such as the Box Step are danced in one area.  Western Waltz moves include the Ballroom Waltz patterns that automatically "travel" around the floor just as a Twostep or Polka would.  At the party later on expect plenty of Western Waltzes like “You Look So Good in Love” and “Open Arms” to practice to at the dance party.

SHARON CRAWFORD'S WESTERN WALTZ PROGRAM

Sharon Crawford's legendary Western Waltz program begins anew in April 2005 with a Beginning Western Waltz class, the first step in a five month cycle.

Back in April of 2000, Sharon Crawford taught her first extended Western Waltz class. Sharon had over 70 people sign up for Beginning Western Waltz in April.  Due to the high energy of the class, naturally we scheduled a follow-up Intermediate class in May. However there was no drop-off!  Not only did the same 70 people stick around, the class grew a little bit as experienced Waltz dancers joined in progress to share the fun.  Soon the students started begging for more levels. Sharon and her friend John Jones added an Advanced level in June. Then came Super-Advanced in July.

Sharon and John stopped at four levels in 2000, but when the same thing happened the following year, they found a way to add a fifth month of Western Waltz in 2001. 

What makes the class exceptionally fun is that many of the dancers stay after class to practice.  Before you know, all that practice pays off - the entire room is wall to wall with beautiful Waltz couples swirling and twirling across the floor!  As a result, many of the finest Waltz dancers in Houston claim they owe their skill to Sharon and John's class!

Warning - two years ago we actually had to CLOSE this course due to over-crowding. Do not hesitate to sign up. It could easily happen again. If you have ever desired to learn the Western Waltz, this is your opportunity. Join now.

 LEVEL 5 WILL BE OFFERED ON WEDNESDAYS IN September

Sharon (Crawford) Shaw's legendary Western Waltz program began anew in APRIL 2008 with a Beginning Western Waltz class, the first step in a five month cycle.  She had nearly 100 students!

Now in September Sharon's class will wraps things up with Level 5.

Sharon taught her first extended Western Waltz class back in September of 2000. In that year, Sharon had over 70 people sign up for Beginning Western Waltz in September.  Due to the high energy of the class, naturally we scheduled a follow-up Intermediate class in September. However there was no drop-off!   Not only did the same 70 people stick around, the class grew a little bit as experienced Waltz dancers joined in progress to share the fun.  Soon the students started begging for more levels. Sharon and her friend John Jones added an Advanced level in September. Then came Super-Advanced in September.

In 2000, Sharon and John stopped at four levels, but when the same thing happened the following year, they found a way to add a fifth month of Western Waltz in 2001. 

What makes the class exceptionally fun is that many of the dancers stay after class to practice.  Before you know, all that practice pays off - the entire room is wall to wall with beautiful Waltz couples swirling and twirling across the floor!  As a result, many of the finest Waltz dancers in Houston claim they owe their skill to Sharon and John's class!

Sharon's Five Month Western Waltz cycle in 2007 marks her eighth year of teaching the best Western Waltz in the entire city.  You do not want to miss it.

Warning - two years ago we actually had to CLOSE this course due to over-crowding. Do not hesitate to sign up. It could easily happen again. If you have ever desired to learn the Western Waltz, this is your golden opportunity. Join now.

SWEETHEARTS OF THE RODEO 
- Rick
Pre-req: Intermediate Western Swing

There will very little overlap from the Crash Course of the same name taught April 14. This will include mostly original material. 

Start Spreading the News!  Foxtrot is the dance of choice for Sinatra music!

Foxtrot is dance of Inaugural Balls, Wedding Receptions, and Formal Dinners. It is also the dance to use to all Sinatra lounge music.

The Up-Town cousin of the Texas Twostep, the Foxtrot can be used to a wide variety of music ranging from Van Morrison's "Marvelous Night for a Moondance" to Sinatra's "New York, New York" to "Mack the Knife" by Bobby Darin.  The Foxtrot works well to a wide variety of Swing music as well. Furthermore, Foxtrot can be used for Slow Dancing as well whether it's your first dance at your wedding or New Year's Eve at the Ballroom!

Foxtrot is dance of Inaugural Balls, Wedding Receptions, and Formal Dinners. It is also the dance to use to most of Frank Sinatra's lounge classics.

Foxtrot is the Up-Town cousin of the Texas Twostep. Besides Sinatra music, Foxtrot can be used to a wide variety of music ranging from Van Morrison's "Marvelous Night for a Moondance" to "Mack the Knife" or "Beyond the Sea" by Bobby Darin.  T

The Foxtrot works well to a wide variety of slower tempo Swing music as well.

Foxtrot is especially useful for your first dance at your wedding and New Year's Eve events.

oint of lookin' Hot if you can't dance Kool?  
 

PUTTIN' ON THE RITZ:  WALTZ AND FOXTROT - Jack
Prerequisite: None

Foxtrot is the Up-Town cousin of the Texas Twostep.  Not only is Foxtrot the dance of Inaugural Balls, Wedding Receptions, and Formal Dinners, it is also the dance used to many of Frank Sinatra's lounge classic such as "New York New York" and "The Way You Look Tonight".   

Besides Sinatra music, Foxtrot can be used to a wide variety of music ranging from Van Morrison's "Marvelous Night for a Moondance" to "Mack the Knife" or "Beyond the Sea" by Bobby Darin.  T

Waltz is the romantic dance of fables such as Cinderella.  It is also the featured dance in romantic classics such as "Gone With the Wind", "The Godfather" and "The King and I".  Waltz is all about swirling turns and floating gowns to beautiful, inspiring music.

Although Foxtrot and Waltz are danced to very different music, what they have in common are the same patterns and very similar footwork.  This means it is possible to learn at least the beginning stages of both dances simultaneously. Together they make for a great night on the town.

The Foxtrot works best as a social dance. Used to Big Band Swing music, Foxtrot resembles a leisurely stroll around the floor.  Since it is not generally a fast dance, Foxtrot gives people plenty of chances to make conversation and dance at the same time.  

Together, Waltz and Foxtrot form the most famous combination in Ballroom Dancing.

 

PUTTIN' ON THE RITZ:
FOXTROT and SWING - Jack
Prerequisite: None

Dance the night away to Big Band Swing music.!

There are two major dances to learn: Foxtrot and Swing

Foxtrot is the Up-Town cousin of the Texas Twostep.  Not only is Foxtrot the dance of Inaugural Balls, Wedding Receptions, and Formal Dinners, it is also the dance used to many of Frank Sinatra's lounge classic such as "New York New York" and "The Way You Look Tonight".   

Besides Sinatra music, Foxtrot can be used to a wide variety of music ranging from Van Morrison's "Marvelous Night for a Moondance" to "Mack the Knife" or "Beyond the Sea" by Bobby Darin. 


Swing Dancing is a worldwide favorite partner dance that was created right here in America. Swing is an offshoot of the Charleston.

Swing developed during the Jazz Era of the 1920s as an 8-count dance then known as the Lindy Hop. As time passed, the Lindy gave birth to a 6-count offshoot that became known as "Swing". This was the major dance of the celebrated Big Band Swing Era of the 1930s and 40s. Later when Rock 'n Roll came along, a popular triple step variation of Swing known as Jitterbug became the partner dance of choice during the 50s and 60s.

Swing returned to the forefront of national attention in the late 90s and remains one of the best partner dances ever developed. Swing is particularly useful because it can be used to a wide variety of dance music.  

 

PUTTIN' ON THE RITZ:
FOXTROT and SWING TO
BIG BAND MUSIC - Marla
Prerequisite: None
Foxtrot is dance of Inaugural Balls, Wedding Receptions, and Formal Dinners. It is also a great dance to use to Sinatra music played at night clubs.  
Foxtrot is the Up-Town cousin of the Texas Twostep. It can be danced to a wide variety of music ranging from Van Morrison's "Marvelous Night for a Moondance" to Sinatra's "New York, New York" to "Mack the Knife" by Bobby Darin.

The Foxtrot works best of all to Big Band Swing music.
Swing can be used to a wide variety of music, but in particular it will be taught tonight using the music that brought this dance to fame: Big Band Swing Music such as "In the Mood" and "Take the A Train".

Join us for a fun class of Slow Slow Quick Quick to Big Band music!
 

BEG LINDY HOP - Maureen
Pre-req: at least Beginning Swing

The Lindy Hop was America's first Swing dance. It is a wonderful cross between Jitterbug, Charleston, and Shag.

Popular in the 20's through World War II, the Lindy disappeared for 40 years, but has enjoyed a renewed interest stimulated by the emergence of 90's Swing music !

People ask what is the difference between Swing and Lindy. Generally speaking, Lindy consists of 8-count patterns and Swing of 6-count patterns, although both dances can have patterns using both counts. The Lindy's 8-count allows for greater styling and interpretive movement but, socially, the Lindy is danced to slightly slower music while Swing works better to faster music.

Plus if you are Broke, you can enter a Lindy Marathon Dance like in the movie, "They shoot horses, don't they?"

Tango is a timeless symbol for the dark side of romance. The music is haunting and mysterious and the movement of the dance very dramatic. 

With songs like "Jalousie" (Jealousy) and "Ecstasie" (Ecstasy), Tango takes it place in legend as the dance of pride, anger, and most of all, passion.  It is said that if Count Dracula were to choose a dance, there is no doubt it would be Tango.

Stylish and very dramatic, Tango combines sleek, hip-locked, gliding steps with abrupt stops into fans, flicks, flares, dips, and lunges. The eerie music, sultry motion, and the haunting sense of dark moods barely under control make Tango a truly fascinating dance!

American Tango is more structured than its Argentine counterpart. Using the game of Basketball for example, American Tango relies more on "set, predetermined plays" while Argentine Tango is more improvisational, make-it-up on the spot. Another difference between the two systems is that American Tango tends to travel around the room while Argentine limits itself to one spot on the floor.

Most insiders consider American Tango vastly easier to learn and to use for occasional opportunities.

Stylish and very dramatic, Tango combines sleek, hip-locked, gliding steps with abrupt stops into fans, flicks, flares, dips, and lunges. The eerie music, sultry motion, and the haunting sense of dark moods barely under control make Tango a truly fascinating dance!

People ask about the difference between American Tango and Argentine Tango. 

Most insiders consider American Tango vastly easier for the occasional dancer to learn and to use.  For starters, American Tango is more structured than its Argentine counterpart. Using Basketball for example, American Tango relies more on "set, predetermined plays" while Argentine Tango is more improvisational, make-it-up on the spot. In other words, if Tango becomes your lifestyle and you dance it on a nightly basis, the more challenging Argentine style might be preferable. But if you intend to dance the Tango just every so often, then American Tango is the place to start.

Beginning Tango will be offered by Rick and Marla Archer on Mondays at 7 pm. We will the American style of the dance.

Tango is a timeless symbol for the dark side of romance. The music is haunting and mysterious. In fact the unusual rhythms are so eerie and brooding, you almost want to look over your shoulder for Count Dracula. It doesn't help of course that we teach the class with the lights very dim...

With songs like "Jalousie" (Jealousy) and "Ecstasie" (Ecstasy), Tango takes it place in legend as the dance of powerful passions.

Stylish and very dramatic, Tango combines sleek, hip-locked gliding steps with abrupt stops into fans, flicks, flares, dips, and lunges. The eerie music, sultry motion, and the haunting sense of dark moods barely under control make Tango a truly fascinating dance!

American Tango is more structured than its Argentine counterpart. Using Basketball for example, American Tango relies more on "set, predetermined plays" while Argentine Tango is more improvisational, make-it-up on the spot. Most insiders consider American Tango vastly easier to learn and more practical for the occasional dancer to use. Once you get serious, you can always drift over the vastly more difficult Argentine style for a tougher challenge.

When the original tango hit Europe (Paris) in 1914 or so, it caused a sensation in the European upper classes. At the time, tango was something done only by the disaffected lower middle class people at the fringes of polite society. The Buenos Aires upperclass wouldn't be caught dead dancing tango, like the prostitutes and the working class. But there was no way the European men were going to allow their women to dance that close to other men. So they neutered it into "International Style" tango. Later the Americans took their shot at neutering it, with "American Style". They had to, since North American culture has very fuzzy lines separating sensuality from sexuality. In Latin culture, the two are quite distinct, and sensuality does not automatically lead to sexuality.

International and American style are for competition, with frozen syllibi from the 1920s. Argentine tango has gone through at least four major stylistic and musical eras in it's 150 year history. New steps welcomed. Competitions are rare, since the entire thing is very improvisational and individualistic. As an old tanguero told an American instructor once, "All those other [Argentine] men will always tell you you are dancing wrong. But the only thing that matters is that, when you ask the woman to dance the next time, she says yes."

I had a girlfriend from Buenos Aires, used to teach tango professionally, but she was from a rather poor, or at least lower middle class, family. When she got here and saw C&W dancing, SHE LOVED IT. She was totally at home, especially with that socioeconomic group. You can't tell from hearing tangos, but they are sad songs of lost love and opportunity, just like C&W lyrics. Over the years, tango has worked its way up the socioeconomic hierarchy, and now is a worldwide dance with a passionate following in every major city around the world. But it shares its roots with C&W.
(lester buck)

No telling what Andrew has cooked up for you, but don't expect much mercy. This course should be considered along the difficulty of a Zoot Suit Level class. 

Andrew was a member of one of Houston's top Swing teams for a year and picked up some smoking Swing patterns along the way. Expect him to run you ragged ! 

Plus if you are Broke, you can stay for the party afterwards and eat Popcorn!

West Coast Swing is a wonderful partner dance used to Disco and Rock music. Featuring clever footwork, interest in WCS here in Houston is on a definite upsurge. This CC will give you a chance to see first-hand what the fuss is about. Obviously you don't have time to master the dance, but you will learn enough to enjoy the evening!

  FAMOUS WHIP FOOTWORK PATTERNS
 - Rick Archer
Pre-Requisite:  Adv Whip or higher, 
couples only

There are a number of very attractive Whip footwork patterns that are quite eye-catching. Included in this list are easier patterns like the Sailor Shuffle, Carmen San Diego, and the Grapevine as well as the complex .38 Special and Super Sugarfoot. 

The main reason you don't see these patterns more often is that they are memorized. Hence the need for a partner since the moves can't be led or followed. You will really enjoy these neat patterns!

GARY'S FAV GHOST TOWN PTNS - Gary
Pre-req: Adv Western Swing

Gary Richardson has been a fixture at Tuesday Wild West and Friday Western Practice night for over five years. Seeing as how he considers himself a fast learner and a creative dancer, we suppose after this much time Gary has picked up a move or two off the beaten path.  

This is your big chance to steal Gary's best moves and look better than him at the party to follow later tonight. ;-)

Jeannette was a very active line dancer in the UK and The Netherlands. Since her recent move to Houston, she has been aggressively working to create a line dancing club here in the Space City. Jeannette would like to meet people who are  interested in Line Dancing. This Crash Course covers some of the popular Western line dances and then dance what you learned at the party afterwards.

There are many Whip and West Coast Swing patterns that we don't have time to cover in the first four months of Whip/West Coast that are surprisingly easy to learn. 

This course covers patterns that will be useful to use at tonight's party in addition to the patterns students at Levels 2 thru 4 already know. If you are in Beg Whip/WCS, some of this stuff may be over your head.

The SSQQ Sleazy Bar Party returns us to the spiritual roots of the Dirty Whip, which was at its origin a legendary pick-up dance used at the worst dives and honky-tonks on the blue side of town. 

The moves taught tonight are indeed quite sleazy if you can manage to keep from laughing long enough to learn the patterns. 

Advanced Salsa

On Tuesdays in May, Steve Gekas and Danielle Lam will introduce SSQQ to the first-ever Advanced Salsa 11 class.

Salsa first exploded onto the scene in 2000 with Ricky Martin singing "Living La Vida Loca" against the backdrop of the Bush-Gore struggles down in Florida. Since then Bush has been re-elected and Salsa has grown to become the most popular single dance style in America today.

Steve and Danielle spend so much time dancing in the clubs and practicing at the studio that they have come up with their own style of exciting and complex Salsa patterns.  Since their students are mostly very experienced dancers, Steve and Danielle work hard to stay ahead of this talented group. As a result, Salsa dancers from around Houston flock to the studio on Tuesday to see if they can the challenge of this "Honors" Advanced Salsa program. Indeed, the Tuesday Advanced Salsa class has become so popular our biggest room regularly fills up with classes that approach 100 students. If you can handle the heat, this class can't be beat.

Now in May Steve and Danielle introduce a new Advanced level consisting of new patterns and new challenges. Don't miss it!

BEG TEXAS TWOSTEP 
- Randy

The Texas Twostep is the most important Country and Western dance. It is easy to learn and fun to use. From George Strait's "Fool Hearted Memory" to Shania Twain's "Holding onto Love", the Twostep is used to a wide variety of C&W music. 

When you live in Houston, Texas, you should get plenty of opportunities where a little knowledge of the Twostep will come in pretty handy. And don't forget the Twostep is a fixture at Rodeo time. Come learn the fundamentals of this famous dance !

WESTERN LINE DANCES 
- Jeannette Baseliers 

Jeannette was a very active line dancer in the UK and The Netherlands. Since her recent move to Houston, she has been aggressively working to create a line dancing club here in the Space City. Jeannette would like to meet people who are  interested in Line Dancing. This Crash Course covers some of the popular Western line dances and then dance what you learned at the party afterwards.

SWIRLEY-TWIRLEY
TRAVELING JITTERBUG SHOW
- Rick
Pre-req: At least Beginning Swing

There are many great Jitterbug songs that are difficult to dance to because the tempo is too slow. Classic songs like “Mony Mony” & “Love Potion #9” at 132 beats per minute are tough to dance Swing to.

The moment you learn the secrets of the Traveling Jitterbug footwork, these songs will suddenly come to life!

The extra motion makes the dancing more interesting and you don’t feel like you are standing still. Many of these moves and techniques may be familiar, but tonight we concentrate on these basic moves and develop them to the point of excellence!!
Please note this is an Advanced class, so if you are a beginner, steer clear. Thanks!

INTERMEDIATE JITTERBUG - Kristi
Pre-req: Beginning Swing
Level of Difficulty: Tricky

The bouncy tunes of the 50s Happy Days were the hey-dey of a dance known as the the Bop, also known as the Jitterbug. 

There are many classic 50s Jitterbug songs that are difficult to dance to because the tempo is too slow for Swing footwork.  

Classic songs like “Mony Mony”, "Sh-Boom", &  “Love Potion #9” at 132 beats per minute are tough to dance to until you add the special traveling footwork that makes this music come to life!  The extra motion makes the dancing more interesting and you don’t feel like you are standing still. 

Many of these moves and techniques may be familiar, but tonight we concentrate on these basic moves and develop them to the point of excellence!!

You will be rewarded as you dance gleefully to many of the slower, wonderful tunes of the 50s at the SSQQ Sock Hop later on!

Note this course is NOT for total beginners, but rather people who have completed at least Beg Swing. Thanks!

BEGINNING SWING - Patty O
Pre-req: No prerequisite
Level of Difficulty: Easy

It's pretty hard to enjoy coming to a Sock Hop if you don't know how to dance!  This course should get you ready to dance Swing to "Jailhouse Rock" by Elvis, "Great Balls of Fire" by Jerry Lee Lewis, and "I Wanna Hold Your Hand" by the Beatles.

If you don't know how to Swing Dance ahead of time, this is the place to be from 7-9 before tonight's party.

Shane Kidwell is known for all sorts of interesting Western Swing patterns. Tonight we get a chance to see what is up his sleeve! 

Shane is a very funny guy and you are sure to smile your way thru one perilous adventure after another.

This is your big chance to steal Shane's best moves and look better than him at the party to follow later tonight.

SPECIAL WESTERN WALTZ REVIEW CLASS - Sharon
Pre-Requisite: Graduation from Sharon's Super-Advanced Course in August.

In August, Sharon Crawford finished a 5-month course in Western Waltz. This Crash Course is a special reward for completing the class as Sharon will review all the complicated patterns from her long 5-month Cycle.

Note: If your name is not on the Class Roster from the final course in August, you will only be permitted to take this course with Sharon's permission.  Look at it this way - this class is a Reunion class for people who spent nearly half a year learning and practicing some tough patterns. Any newcomers will slow the pace down. So please do not attempt to bluff your way into this class. Thank you.

SHARON SHAW'S WESTERN CHA CHA
 THE ADVANCED LEVEL WILL BE OFFERED ON WEDNESDAYS IN February

Western Cha Cha is the traditional Cha Cha used to slow, graceful Polka-speed music. Many of the songs Western Cha Cha works best to can be described as romantic or sultry, often with a Latin beat in the background. 

The most famous Western Cha Cha is Neon Moon by Brooks and Dunn. Shagging on the Boulevard by Alabama and Tequila Sunrise by the Eagles are two more examples. The Western Cha Cha is a clever dance that works well as an alternative dance to the Polka. 

Since Polka is considered quite a bit of exercise by some people, Western Cha Cha has emerged as a popular alternative to the strenuous pace of Polka-rhythm Western Swing that circles the floor and leaves people panting.  Not so with Cha Cha.  There may be panting as well, but certainly not from exertion.

Quite popular in Western clubs, Western Cha Cha is also a fixture at Western Dance Competitions. The patterns vary from the simple to the complex and use double turns when the mood strikes. Best of all, the Cha Cha has an attractive hip motion that makes Wrangler Jeans do for Western dancing whatever it is that Gap Khakis do for Swing dancing. 

Cha Cha is flirtatious, sexy, easy to learn, and lots of fun!

PS: You MUST be able to Polka well

SPECIAL WESTERN CHACHA REVIEW CLASS
- Sharon Crawford
Pre-Requisite: Graduation from Sharon's Super-Advanced Course in December.

In December, Sharon Crawford finished a 4-month course in Western Cha Cha. This Crash Course is a special reward for completing the class as Sharon will review all the complicated patterns from the 4-month Cycle.

Note: If your name is not on the Class Roster from the final course in December, you will only be permitted to take this course with Sharon's permission. Please do not attempt to bluff your way into this class. We are not kidding.

TED & MARGIE’S FAVORITE MARTIAN  WHIP PATTERNS - Ted & Margie
Pre-req: (Lunar Whip, Martian, and Beyond)
Level of Difficulty: Hard

Ted and Margie teach the Twilight Zone, SSQQ's toughest Whip/West Coast Swing course. However tonight they will loosen their ties, let down their hair, and "Whip Out" some of their favorite Martian-level patterns. 

If you are an experienced Whip dancer, you are in for a real treat tonight! (and don't forget the music later on is cosmic, so you will get plenty of chances to practice your new patterns!)

Club Dancing: Freestyle and Hip Hop

Brad taught this course previously in February and received several compliments. An active dancer on the Club Scene, Brad mixes in the classic Freestyle moves that all Beginners need to know with a little of his own Hip Hop and Funk as well.

This course is perfect if you want to gain a little confidence before you get out there and make a fool of yourself. Just a little practice ahead of time will go a long way!

ZYDECO - Ronnie 
No Prerequisite

Zydeco is a Creole Swing Dance that is extremely popular in the Houston area.  

Zydeco dance music originated in the state of Louisiana in the United States. Similar to Cajun music, Zydeco is more heavily influenced by blues and music from the West Indies. Fast and bouncy, Zydeco uses instruments such as the accordion, saxophone, and washboard. It was popularized by American singer and accordion player Clifton Chenier, often called the "King of Zydeco music." 

It is difficult to describe what the dancing looks like, but we will try anyway.  Zydeco combines elements of Swing dancing and Freestyle.  This means you have the turns from Swing mixed in with lots of get down and boogie moves.  Zydeco is fun, it's sexy, and it is pretty easy to learn!   This is a great Saturday night class that will have you laughing all night long!

BOSSA NOVA - Jill 
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Prerequisite: None

"Blame it on the Bossa Nova" by Eydie Gorme is a 60s salute to a popular dance from Brazil known as... guess.

The question must be asked, "Blame What on the Bossa Nova"?  Perhaps it would help to know that the most famous Bossa Nova song is another 60s classic known as "The Girl from Ipanema" by Stan Getz, considered by some critics as one the 10 sexiest songs of all time. A line from the song says "she moves to the Samba that swings so cool and sways so gently. When she passes he smiles but she doesn't see..."  So we have a dance shrouded in mystery that gets people in trouble!!  Are you curious yet?

Bossa Nova is a derivative of the fusion of American jazz with Brazilian popular music. The dance itself loosely resembles Samba, but is danced much slower and has a look all of its own that is more than casually provocative...

Bossa Nova is danced to slower Latin rhythms and easy jazz.  It is easy to learn, can be danced to lots of sexy slow jazz music, but the most important reasons to take the course are intangible. Learning the Bossa Nova will put you in direct touch with a deeper understanding of the nature of looking Cool, feeling Cool, and most of all, Being Cool. Learning this dance is almost a study in consciousness itself...   ;-)

BEGINNING LINDY HOP 
- Patty O
Pre-req : Beginning Swing

The Lindy Hop was America's first Swing dance. It is a wonderful cross between Jitterbug, Charleston, and Shag.

Popular in the 20's through World War II, the Lindy disappeared for 40 years, but has enjoyed a renewed interest stimulated by the emergence of 90's Swing music !

People ask what is the difference between Swing and Lindy. Generally speaking, Lindy consists of 8-count patterns and Swing of 6-count patterns, although both dances can have patterns using both counts. The Lindy's 8-count allows for greater styling and interpretive movement but, socially, the Lindy is danced to slightly slower music while Swing works better to faster music.

SWING CHARLESTON 
SIDE BY SIDE - Maureen 
pre-req: Advanced Swing

The fascinating Charleston kick patterns are a major part of the Lindy Hop. However they can just as easily be used to a Swing system as well. This courses covers Side by Side  Charleston patterns and shows you how to get in and out of them using Swing 6-beat timing.

Swing Charleston Classic patterns include Bus Driver, Kick and Rock, Side by Side Charleston, and Crossed-Hand Charleston as well as others. Many people are not aware that the Lindy originated out of the Charleston. In particular, the “Side by Side” and “Crossed-Hands” patterns were pretty much the first Lindy patterns ever used when Lindy was making its breakout from the Charleston in the 1920s.

Please note this is an Advanced class, so if you are a beginner, steer clear. Thanks!!

INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED SALSA PATTERNS - Linda
Pre-req: Intermediate Salsa

This courses covers an Intermediate Salsa pattern the first hour and an Advanced Salsa pattern the second hour. Some people will find the first hour too easy, some people will find the second hour too hard. So come prepared to be flexible. We should have at least one surprise up our sleeve for you. NO BEGINNERS, PLEASE!

NITE CLUB - Judy

Danced to slow, romantic songs, Night Club Slow Dance is an unusual dance perhaps best described as an "active" form of Slow Dancing. Combining a special blend of Latin footwork and Foxtrot patterns, Niteclub is a pretty dance to see and fun to use. Nor is it difficult to learn.

Although it is always nice to be in love and have the chance to dance standing still with your amour, but Nite Club allows people without romantic partners to participate as well. 

You would be surprised at the number of songs that would normally be considered "Slow Music" including Western music and Swing music that suddenly become exciting to dance to once you master this unique dance. Judy thinks anyone who learns this dance is bound to really like it. 

SCOTT AND CHER'S BEGINNING NIGHT CLUB  WEDNESDAYS IN JANUARY

Danced to slow, romantic songs, Night Club is an unusual dance that is best described as an "active" form of Slow Dancing. Combining a special blend of Ballroom patterns taken from Rumba, Bolero, Foxtrot, and Waltz, Night club is a pretty dance to watch and fun to use. Nor is it difficult to learn.

A unique feature of Night Club is that it is danced apart. This allows people without romantic partners to dance to Slow Music in a very stylish manner. You would be surprised at the number of songs that would normally be considered "Slow Music" that suddenly become exciting to dance to once you master this unique dance.

In recent years, Night Club has become a fixture on the Country-Western competition dance circuit. It works perfectly to Western ballads such as "Breathe" by Faith Hill.
 

SWING BALBOA- Gloria
Prerequisite: This is a tough dance. Previous knowledge of East or West Coast Swing helpful

Balboa is a complex form of Swing Dancing. It is danced with the Lead and Follow dancing where their chests touch for a body lead connection.  The idea of dancing so close together comes as an adaptation to crowded floors and also give dancers a chance to catch their breath during a fast song. Basically the dance evolved thru crowded dance floors and high tempos. A dancer getting tired would pull his partner close and do Balboa to catch their breath, then swing out again or it was just plain to crowded to dance.

BEG SALSA MERENGUE - Linda

Merengue is a major Salsa dances known as the "Walking Dance". You take a step on each beat of the music.  

Featuring terrific hip motion and fun patterns, Merengue is a major dance in the Latin clubs! Merengue is lots of fun and very easy to learn. 

DIRTY DANCING - Rachel and Wil
Pre-req: Couples only!

THE SWIRLEY-TWIRLEY TRAVELING
JITTERBUG SHOW - Rick
Pre-req: Intermediate Swing

The Swirley-Twirley Swing-Your-Girlie Traveling
Jitterbug Show is a creative title for a course which teaches students how to use Triple Step footwork to Slow Swing music. Many students master only Swing footwork, then sit the slow ones out. This course is not only a lot of fun, but extremely useful for expanding your understanding of the uses of Triple Step footwork to "Travel" more. 

LAMBADA: SALSA DIRTY DANCE! - Linda
Pre-req: Couples only

Lambada is of course the famous "Forbidden Dance" of the 80s. Very similar to Salsa, it is also very naughty. Let's find out why...

Round Dances are basically Group Dances where people switch partners while dancing memorized patterns. Similar in some ways to Square Dancing, we will some Round Dance classics such as the Virginia Reel, the Beer Barrel Polka, the Barn Dance, and the Moonlight Waltz. Stay and dance them later at tonight's party!

BACHATA - Linda
No Pre-Req

BACHATA - Linda
Pre-req: No pre-requisite

Bachata is a slow Latin dance that originated in the Dominican Republic. It is based on an ancient African dance rhythm known as 'Ibo' brought over by slaves stolen from the Nigerian Kwa tribe in the early 1800s.

Bachata lyrics are almost always about heartbreak or unrequited love. Known as  "la música de amargue" (the music of bitterness), it developed as music for the poorest neighborhoods of the Dominican Republic.

In many ways the history of bachata music is similar to that of American blues. Originally a rural, guitar-based form, bachata was the music of the poor and uneducated. Now it is entering mainstream Salsa music.

The lyrics often contain raw double-entendres and bawdy sexual innuendoes. Whether its the suggestive lyrics or the sensual style of the Bachata, this dance is starting to get a "bad reputation".  In fact Bachata has been compared to Bossa Nova, another Latin dance with a "bad reputation".

And now that you know about how naughty Bachata is, come learn how to dance it!

///////////

Bachata is a Latin dance used to slow-rhythm Salsa music. It is considered "suggestive" and naughty. Originating in the Dominican Republic, Bachata traces it roots to an ancient African dance rhythm known as 'Ibo' brought over by slaves stolen from the Nigerian Kwa tribe in the early 1800s.  The dance is very similar to Bossa Nova.

Long considered disreputable music of the lower classes, Bachata was not played on commercial radio until recently, even though it had a huge grassroots following. In many ways the history of Bachata is similar to that of American blues. Originally a rural, guitar-based form, Bachata was the music of the poor and uneducated. The lyrics often contained raw double-entendres and bawdy sexual innuendoes.

And now that you know that Bachata is sometimes known as the Salsa version of "Dancing Down and Dirty", come learn how to dance it!

//////////////////

KOOL KAT KLUB ADV SWING PTNS - Judy
Pre-Req:  Adv Swing

Calling all Hepcats, Jive Bunnies, Jazz Jumpers and Kool Kats.  It's a hot night in Harlem and the dancers are itchin' to Boogie. Judy has some strange brew cooked up for you, stuff that will get your heart racing and your blood pumping.  Be sure to wear your sharpest threads.

What's the point of dancing Hot is you don't look Kool?  

LATIN CHA CHA! ! - Jill
PRE-REQUISITE: Beginning Salsa

Cha Cha is a fun and flirtatious dance.  It is also the answer to a trivia question: what dance can be used to the most kinds of music?  Cha Cha is an incredibly versatile dance. Cha Cha can be used to Tito Puente or Marc Anthony Latin/Salsa music, romantic Country-Western Polka music, all Disco music, 50s Sock Hop music like "Johnny Angel", popular music with a Latin Beat like the Beach Boy's "Kokomo" and Santana's recent Grammy winner "Smooth". 

Cha Cha patterns can vary from the simple to the complex and will even use double turns when the mood strikes. Best of all, the Cha Cha has an attractive hip motion that make pretty dresses do the exact same thing that Gap Khakis do for Swing dancing.

Cha Cha is sexy, easy to learn, and lots of fun! Plus you will get plenty of chances to use it during the party later on.

Jill intends to teach this course as if you are already a Salsa dancer. You can cover a lot of ground this way.

SOCK HOP CHA CHA PATTERNS - Jill
Prerequisite: None
Level of Difficulty: Easy

What do "Johnny Angel", "Under the Boardwalk", "Spanish Harlem", "See You in September", and "Venus" all have in common?  They all have a distinct Cha-Cha rhythm.  In fact, there are lots of Fifties and Sixties era songs with a Cha-Cha beat and you will be hearing them all night long at the SSQQ Sock Hop.  So join Jill Banta and explore the sexy, silly, super cute ChaChaCha, the dance with that Cuban hip motion that makes women want to flirt and men want to respond.

In December, Dakota completed a four month Tango class that had his students deeply amazed at the depth of his knowledge and his ability to share it with them. At their request, Dakota agreed to offer four months of another dance.  This time it is Latin Cha Cha. 

Cha Cha is a fun and flirtatious dance.  It is also the answer to a trivia question: what dance can be used to the most kinds of music?  Cha Cha is an incredibly versatile dance.  Cha Cha can be used to:
 
1. Tito Puente ("Oye Como Va") or Marc Anthony ("Need to Know") Latin/Salsa music
2. Romantic Latin-tinged Country-Western Polka music
3. All Disco music
4. 50s Sock Hop music like "Johnny Angel" or the Drifters "Under the Boardwalk"
5. Popular music with a Latin Beat like the Beach Boy's "Kokomo" and Santana's  Grammy winner "Smooth" plus earlier material like "Black Magic Woman". 

Cha Cha patterns can vary from the simple to the complex and will even use double turns when the mood strikes. Best of all, the Cha Cha has an attractive hip motion that make pretty dresses do the exact same thing that Gap Khakis do for Swing dancing. No one seems to mind too much

Cha Cha is sexy, easy to learn, and lots of fun!

ADVANCED POLKA - Rick
PRE-REQUISITE: Intermediate Western Swing

Polka-rhythm Western Swing can very tiring if the man double turns the woman for the entire song. There are many clever Polka patterns that break the monotony of one double turn and circle turn after another. This course will spice up a Western Polka with all sorts of easy, somewhat tricky, and semi-impossible moves which we will cover in this class. Please not the woman had better already know how to double turn because this is a MAJOR prerequisite and the man definitely needs to be a graduate of "Int. Western Swing".  Thanks!

 

ADVANCED AMERICAN TANGO - YJ
Pre-requisite: Beginning Tango

Tango is a timeless symbol for the dark side of romance. The music is haunting and mysterious. 

With songs like "Jalousie" (Jealousy) and "Ecstasie" (Ecstasy), Tango takes it place in legend as the dance of pride, anger, and most of all, passion.

This is your chance to learn some of the famous "Advanced" patterns in this erotic, sensual dance. In addition tonight's party will feature several Tango songs to allow you to practice what you learned in class. 

STREET SWING - Paul
Pre-req: None

Also known across Texas as "Aggie Jitterbug", Street Swing can vary from being the most basic form of Swing dancing there is to a fast, eye-catching dance similar to that used up at A&M and seen around Houston in the Western clubs.

It is the perfect Swing dance to teach a 7th grader going to his or her first school dance. Or with the addition of famous moves like the Pretzel, the Rope, and the Weave, Street Swing can begin to look pretty fancy when it is danced well.  

Street Swing is also a very useful dance for Beginning Swing dancers to learn due to its relative simplicity.

Beginning Triple Two
Scott
Beginning Triple Two is the legendary Western Swing export from Dallas, Texas.  Triple Two is not well-known in Houston, but it is a staple on the Western Dancing Competition circuit. It is fast, fluid, fun to dance, and great to watch!

Danced to Polka-speed music, Triple Two is the dance of many aliases. Also known as Triple Twostep, Fort Worth Shuffle, and Dallas Twostep, Triple Two is very popular among experienced Western Swing dancers because it is less strenuous than a regular Polka and the patterns are unique and very flowing. This special course has not been offered at SSQQ for over a year.

You will be pleasantly surprised at how much fun the Triple Two is to learn and to use out on the floor!

Beginning hustle - Scott    SUNDAYS IN APRIL

Hustle is the famous Disco Dance from the 70s.  It is also a cult favorite here at SSQQ. 

Hustle is best used to Disco music and soft R&B hits.  This flashy partner dance is a clever combination of Swing footwork and Latin hip motion.  Taught on Sundays at 4:30, this dance was first known as the "Latin Hustle" when it was the major partner dance back in the Saturday Night Fever Disco era. 

A very smooth, flowing dance, Hustle footwork & timing is very similar to West Coast Swing.  However its patterns are more similar to East Coast Swing.  While the patterns resemble from Swing, the Hustle also has a hip motion and feel which is more similar to Salsa.  In other words, Hustle is a fusion of East Coast and West Coast Swing plus Salsa as well.  You will certainly enjoy this dance which is a unique blend of all three dance styles.

Since this is a beginner class, of course Scott will assume you know nothing about the dance and therefore teach his Hustle course starting with the Basics.  However this is a tricky dance best taken by people who already have at some dance experience, preferably with Swing.  Since we only offer this course once a year, in order to save time we assume everyone in the class has already taken Beg Swing since so much of the Latin Hustle footwork is derived from Swing.  In other words, if you are not at least a somewhat experienced dancer, this class may move pretty fast.  A Beginning Swing class would probably be a better place to start.

Scott Ladell has worked magic with his Hustle class in past years.  In 2006, his class was so popular that it went for five months.  That was pretty impressive.  You will be pleased to note that this accomplishment was no accident.  Scott is one of the best Hustle teachers in the city and deserves the loyal following he has developed.

LATIN HUSTLE 
- Marty
Prerequisite: Beg. Swing

The Latin Hustle is the famous Disco Dance from the 70s.  This flashy partner dance is a clever combination of Swing footwork and Latin hip motion.  The patterns and footwork are actually taken from Swing while hip motion and feel of the dance is more similar to Salsa. You will certainly enjoy this dance which is a unique blend of both dance styles.

Please note that although we teach this crash course starting with the Basics, in order to save time we assume everyone in the class has already taken Beg Swing since so much of the Latin Hustle footwork is taken from Swing.

Scott Ladell has worked the same magic with his Hustle class that Gloria Sanchez has accomplished with her Lindy program. Scott is preparing to teach the first SSQQ Level 5 Hustle class in history on Sundays at 4:30. Known as "Latin Hustle" when it first appeared back in the "Saturday Night Fever" Disco era, Hustle is used to Disco music and soft R&B hits.  A very smooth, flowing dance, Hustle footwork & timing is very similar to West Coast Swing. However its patterns are more similar to East Coast Swing. These two elements make Hustle a unique dance all of its own.

BEGINNING LINDY HOP 
- Patty O
Pre-req : Beginning Swing

The Lindy Hop was America's first Swing dance. It is a wonderful cross between Jitterbug, Charleston, and Shag.

Popular in the 20's through World War II, the Lindy disappeared for 40 years, but has enjoyed a renewed interest stimulated by the emergence of 90's Swing music !

SYNCHRONIZED POLKA - Rick
Prerequisite: finished Beg Western Swing

Synchronized Polka is an all-time favorite courses in the Crash Course series.

Both the man and the woman do the same footwork and dance the same patterns together to Polka-rhythm Western music.

The patterns are fun to dance and graceful to watch.

This course will cover the Get Ahead series, the Get Even series, the Reverses, and the Swinging Door patterns. Better bring your brain or you will forget everything.

Assuming you already know how to Polka and have had at least Beg Western Swing, you will really enjoy this course!

Synchronized Polka is a form of Western Polka where the man and the woman do the same footwork and dance the same patterns at each other's side to Polka-rhythm Western music.  

For a simple example, think of the Cotton-Eyed Joe which is basically the 'original' Synchronized Polka dance... both people start with their right foot and both people dance side by side.

Synchronized Polka has always been an all-time favorite Crash Course.  There are several reasons for the popularity of this dance form.  One, when your regular patterns to Polka get old, Synchronized Polka offers some pretty neat alternatives.  Second, when the lady is tired after lots of double turns, Synchronized Polka offers her a chance to catch her breath.  Third, the patterns are pretty easy to learn and fun to use.  Fourth, Synchronized Polka is very flowing and rather Romantic as well as two people dance side by side in the Sweetheart Position. 

Assuming you already know how to Polka and have had at least Beg Western Swing, you will really enjoy this course!
 

This Crash Course made its debut in March 2007. It should be considered a follow-up to the Beg-level Synchronized Polka Crash Course. If you are a guy and you haven't had the Beginning level class, do not even dream of taking this class.  As for the ladies, you are more than welcome because you don't have to lead.

BEG TEXAS TWOSTEP 
- Kathleen
(No Pre-requisite
The Texas Twostep is the most important Country and Western dance. It is easy to learn and fun to use. From George Strait's "Fool Hearted Memory" to Shania Twain's "Holding onto Love", the Twostep is used to a wide variety of C&W music. 
When you live in Houston, Texas, you should get plenty of opportunities where a little knowledge of the Twostep will come in pretty handy. And don't forget the Twostep is a fixture at Rodeo time. Come learn the fundamentals of this famous dance!

BEGINNING WESTERN SWING 
- Cher Longoria
Pre-requisite: You MUST know how to Twostep.
No Exceptions. 
Based on the Texas Twostep,  Western Swing takes you into the intricacies of spins and turns. 

Western Swing is the dance where eye-catching Double Turns are added to Polka and Two Step timing. Best described as "Twostep with Turns", the man twirls the lady with one or two hands as they circle the floor. Although Western Swing is a very popular dance, it is difficult to learn just by watching. 

This crash course covers the mechanics of leading the double turns and teaches the ladies how to turn properly. 

(We assume you already can Twostep. Otherwise you will be totally lost.)

BEG WESTERN CHA CHA 
- Sharon Shaw
Pre-requisite: You MUST be able to Polka well

Western Cha Cha is the traditional Cha Cha used to slow, graceful Polka-speed music. Many of the songs Western Cha Cha works best to can be described as romantic or sultry, often with a Latin beat in the background. 

The most famous Western Cha Cha is "Neon Moon" by Brooks and Dunn. "Shagging" by Alabama and "Tequila Sunrise" by the Eagles are two more examples. The Western Cha Cha is a clever dance that works well as an alternative dance to the Polka.

Quite popular in Western clubs in other parts of the country, Western Cha Cha is also a fixture at Western Dance Competitions. The patterns vary from the simple to the complex and use double turns when the mood strikes. Best of all, the Cha Cha has an attractive hip motion that makes Wrangler Jeans do for Western dancing whatever it is that Gap Khakis do for Swing dancing. 

Cha Cha is flirtatious, sexy, easy to learn, and lots of fun!

Western Cha Cha is the traditional Cha Cha used to slow, graceful Polka-speed music. Many of the songs Western Cha Cha works best to can be described as romantic or sultry, often with a Latin beat in the background. 

The most famous Western Cha Cha is Neon Moon by Brooks and Dunn. Shagging on the Boulevard by Alabama and Tequila Sunrise by the Eagles are two more examples. The Western Cha Cha is a clever dance that works well as an alternative dance to the Polka. 

Since Polka is considered quite a bit of exercise by some people, Western Cha Cha has emerged as a popular alternative to the strenuous pace of Polka-rhythm Western Swing that circles the floor and leaves people panting.  Not so with Cha Cha.  There may be panting as well, but certainly not from exertion.

Quite popular in Western clubs, Western Cha Cha is also a fixture at Western Dance Competitions. The patterns vary from the simple to the complex and use double turns when the mood strikes. Best of all, the Cha Cha has an attractive hip motion that makes Wrangler Jeans do for Western dancing whatever it is that Gap Khakis do for Swing dancing. 

Cha Cha is flirtatious, sexy, easy to learn, and lots of fun!

PS: You MUST be able to Polka well

SYNCHRONIZED POLKA - Rick
Pre-Requisite: Beg Western Swing
Synchronized Polka is one of the favorite courses in the Crash Course series. Both the man and the woman do the same footwork and dance the same patterns together. The patterns are fun to dance and lovely to see. Assuming you already know how to Polka and have had at least Beg Western Swing, you will really enjoy this course!


ANITA'S FAVORITE HIJACK PATTERNS 
– Anita
Pre-req: Lunar Whip and Beyond
If you are an experienced Whip dancer, you are in for a real treat tonight! Anita has come up with some great hijacks for you ladies so come see what all the fuss is about. 

Since the Hijacks are essentially something for the women to learn, each woman who takes this course can bring a man of her choosing in for free on the condition that he must submit to her will. ;-) And remind him he will be passed around and shared with other women.
SWEETHEARTS OF THE RODEO 
- Rick
Pre-req: Intermediate Western Swing
This is a neat Crash Course to take for anyone in Intermediate Western Swing and above. This course teaches a dozen clever patterns used from the Western Swing Sweetheart Position. There will be some Double Turns, but nothing highly difficult.

LINDA’S FAV GHOST TOWN PTNS - Linda
Prerequisite: Couples only, No Switching

Linda Cook is one of the studio's most appreciated Western teachers. She is also one of the most experienced as well. Linda probably knows more Western Swing than any other staff member at the studio. Not only has she made a few moves of her own up, guys love to practice their newest moves on her because she has a way of making everyone look good. In the process Linda has picked up quite a few patterns. Come see what she has Cooked up for you!

BEG WEST COAST SWING 
- Jorge
Pre-req: Ability to Walk & Chew Gum simultaneously
West Coast Swing is a wonderful partner dance used to Disco and Rock music. Featuring clever footwork, interest in WCS here in Houston is on a definite upsurge. This CC will give you a chance to see first-hand what the fuss is about. Obviously you don't have time to master the dance, but you will learn enough to enjoy the evening!

SLOW DANCING    Slow Dance
- Jill 
Pre-reg: couples only/no switching
 

This is the one dance class that any man with an ounce of common sense should take.  As a word to the wise, there are moments in every man's life when the ability to dance gracefully to romantic music is mighty important. 

You could be on a cruise, you could be on a date, you could be at a party, or the moment could come as a complete surprise. The smart ones learn how to Slow Dance AHEAD OF TIME.  As they say in the Boy Scouts, be prepared.  You never know when you will need to learn how to Slow Dance.

As Time Goes By, there are moments when the ability to slow dance gracefully becomes the most important skill in the world. If you don't have that skill, you're out of luck. 

Just like the ability to change a tire comes in pretty handy at unexpected times, when the opportunity to turn on the charm arises, a sophisticated gentleman should know ahead of time how to gracefully lead his partner on the dance floor. And when he sees her smile, he smiles to himself because he knows exactly what we are talking about here.  When it comes to l'affaire d'amor, you do not want drop the ball.

There are special occasions like the First Dance at weddings, a fancy New Years Eve party, or a torch song at a nightclub that call for the Art of Formal Dancing.

Classic romantic standards like Natalie Cole's "Unforgettable", "At Last" by Etta James, or American Graffiti hits like "In the Still of the Night", "All in the Game", "Only You", and "When A Man Loves a Woman" become even more special to dance to when you actually "Know How" to Slow Dance properly. 

Slow Dancing is a derivative of Foxtrot.  Most people can shuffle from foot to foot, but when it comes to Slow Dancing with panache, the majority of people are clueless. 

This course covers ways to Slow Dance gracefully with several footwork combinations. We explain how different songs may require different timing and footwork.

This is the perfect chance to learn more about the Lost Art of Formal Dancing. It is also the perfect class to take if you need to prepare for the First Dance at your wedding.

SWEETHEART SWING PATTERNS 
- Lise
Pre-Requisite: Intermediate Swing
The Sweetheart Position in Swing and the Skater's Position has many, many options. Learn every romantic Swing pattern imaginable in this Valentine Swing course!
ADVANCED SALSA 
- Linda
Pre-Requisite: You best know how to Salsa Well
Brought to fame in movies like "Dirty Dancing", "Mambo Kings", and "Salsa" as well as the recent Vanessa William's movie "Dance With Me", Salsa has reached new pinnacles of excitement with the exciting music of Ricky Martin, Gloria Estefan, and many other Latin artists.
Linda Cook has danced Salsa three nights a week for the past three years. She intends to pull out her favorite tricks for all to learn in this course!
CAROLINA SHAG - Gloria
Pre-req: Previous knowledge of East or West Coast Swing helpful
The Carolina Shag is an interesting cross between East Coast Swing (what we call Swing at SSQQ) and West Coast Swing (aka Whip). 
The Shag is famous in the Carolina's. There was a Bridgette Fonda movie about 8 years ago called "Shag" which explained that the Shag is a way of life at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Further glory was obtained in the popular song by the Western group Alabama called "Shaggin' on the Boulevard". Shaggin' was also prominent in the recent Austin Powers movie, but we won't go there. 
Featuring fabulous footwork, the Shag fits a wide variety of music, but basically it works to slower Swing songs. No pre-req, but it might help to know this dance is tricky !
SWING ACROBATICS 
- Paul 
Pre-req: Couples only
Nothing captures the attention of an audience like Swing Acrobatics! 
Flips, Dips, Drops, & Lifts guarantee all eyes in the room will be drawn to you. These moves are difficult to master until you learn the secrets of leverage and timing. This course will cover some of the easier Acrobatic patterns.

Blame it on the Bossa Nova - Judy
  
  "Blame it on the Bossa Nova" by Eydie Gorme is a 60s salute to a popular dance from Brazil known as... guess.

The question must be asked, "Blame What on the Bossa Nova"? Perhaps it would help to know that the most famous Bossa Nova song is another 60s classic known as "The Girl from Ipanema" by Stan Getz, considered by some critics as one the 10 sexiest songs of all time. A line from the song says "she moves to the Samba that swings so cool and sways so gently. When she passes he smiles but she doesn't see..." So we have a dance shrouded in mystery that gets people in trouble!! Are you curious yet?

Bossa Nova is a derivative of the fusion of American jazz with Brazilian popular music. 
The dance itself loosely resembles Samba, but is danced much slower and has a look all of its own that is more than casually provocative...

Bossa Nova is danced to slower Latin rhythms and easy jazz. It is easy to learn, can be danced to lots of sexy slow jazz music, but the most important reasons to take the course are intangible. Learning the Bossa Nova will put you in direct touch with a deeper understanding of the nature of looking Cool, feeling Cool, and most of all, Being Cool. 

Sinatra BoxFox - Judy

Foxtrot is dance of Inaugural Balls, Wedding Receptions, and Formal Dinners. It is also the perfect dance to use to Frank Sinatra music played at Swing clubs and social functions.

Box Fox is a special form of Foxtrot that is very easy to learn and perfect for small dance floors. Box Fox works well to a wide variety of Big Band Swing music as well as Sinatra-style lounge music. Furthermore, Foxtrot can be used for Slow Dancing as well whether it's your first dance at your wedding or New Year's Eve at the Ballroom!.  

Besides learning the secrets of this unique dance, prepare to dance the night away to classic Sinatra tunes such as "New York, New York" to "The Way you Look Tonight", "Under My Skin", "I Get a Kick Out of You", and many more!  

Beg Lindy Hop - Gloria

The Lindy Hop was America's first Swing dance. It is a wonderful cross between Jitterbug, Charleston, and Shag. Popular in the 20's through World War II, the Lindy disappeared for 40 years, but has enjoyed a renewed interest stimulated by the emergence of 90's Swing music !

People ask what is the difference between Swing and Lindy. Generally speaking, Lindy consists of 8-count patterns and Swing of 6-count patterns, although both dances can have patterns using both counts. The Lindy's 8-count allows for greater styling and interpretive movement but, socially, the Lindy is danced to slightly slower music while Swing works better to faster music.

Crowded Floor Swing Patterns - Bryan
Pre-req: Intermediate Swing

At many Christmas Parties, the dance floors are so small there is barely room for two couples, much less a whole roomful. This course assumes you have completed Intermediate Swing - please do not attempt to take the course otherwise since the moves are tricky and technical
Shim Sham Line Dance 

and the Jitterbug Stroll - Patty O 

Back at the Savoy Ballroom during the Charleston era of the 20s, the Shim Sham was a popular line dance the dancers would perform regularly. When interest in the Lindy Hop revived in the 90s, the Shim Sham returned to life as well! This crash course will teach the Shim Sham and another popular Swing line dance, the Jitterbug Stroll. Afterwards we will perform both dances at the St. Patrick’s Party!

ROLE REVERSAL WESTERN SWING - Ben 
Pre-req: Advanced Western Swing or Ghost Town (cpls only, NO switching)

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to lead if you are a follower, or follow if you are a leader?  Well here is your chance to see what's on the other side of the fence.  In this class ladies will learn to lead and men will learn to follow.

Not only that, the men learn how to double turn.  Will the girls be sympathetic if the men get dizzy?  Will the men get tired of making themselves short enough to get under the girl's arm?  Will the men complain if the women are too rough?  

And will the women complain that the men aren't following properly?  

History says the answer is 'yes' to everything.  But it's all in good fun in this proverbial 'the shoe is on the other foot' dance class. 

Please note there will be no switching of partners due to height difference problems.

HOT HOT HOT WCS PATTERNS - Rick 
Pre-req: Lunar or Martian Whip

How about a course in sexy, sizzling, enticing, lurid, suggestive, provocative West Coast Swing patterns....?  Need we say more?? 

Note this course is NOT for beginners. Many of the patterns require a precise understanding of the dance.

Furthermore this course is NOT for tender sensibilities. These moves imply a previous knowledge of the birds and the bees and will be taught as such. However it is not necessary to have a partner since the patterns are naughty, but not nasty.

We will teach something quite risqué for starters. If you like the first pattern, then you will have a good feel for the evening's entertainment.

 

 BEG CUMBIA
- Steve
Pre-req: No prerequisite

Cumbia is a Colombian musical style and folk dance.

Cumbia began as a courtship dance practiced among the slave population that was later mixed with European instruments and musical characteristics. It was also used during the Colombian struggle for independence. Since it was forbidden to dance the Cumbia, it actually grew in popularity as a symbolic expression of resistance against Spain.

Cumbia has generally been a popular dance on the American continent due to its simple sound and lyrics. Due to the diversity in Latin America, the music has undergone changes as it mixed with the regional music styles. Therefore, there are several variations of the music.

The basic rhythm structure is 4/4. Due to its origins, both African and Amerindian influences can be felt in cumbia. 

 

 

CUMBIA AND TEJANO DANCING - Linda
Pre-Requisite: None

Cumbia and Tejano Dancing returns to Saturdays in February with by Luis Castillo.  There are three types of Cumbias: Tejano, Columbian, and Cuban.  This course covers both the Tejano Cumbia, the Tejano Polka, and Cuban Cumbia (please note the Columbian Cumbia is covered in our Salsa classes).  The Tejano Polka (sometimes called the "Mexican Polka") uses a walking dance as opposed to the triple step footwork of the Texas Polka.

 

DOWN AND DIRTY WHIP PATTERNS - Rick
Pre-Requisite: Advanced Whip at the Minimum
Couples Only

Whip has long been synonymous with Dirty Dancing.  It has a well-deserved "Bad to the Bone" reputation for explicit dancing.  Tonight we learn some of the reasons why Whip has a reputation for very Naughty dance moves.

BELLY DANCING 
- Rachel Zephyr 
Ladies Only Please

Put a little shimmy in your life! Let Rachel introduce you to the seductive art form of beginning belly dance! This crash course will cover snake arms, hip circles, hip shimmies, shoulder shimmies, and basic combinations to use on the dance floor in conjunction with swing and whip moves. Loose, comfortable clothing is preferred. Try sweats and a crop-top t-shirt, leggings and a running halter top with a t-shirt cover, or just shorts and a t-shirt will do. A scarf, shawl or sarong is recommended to wrap around your waste as a hip sash to add emphasis to your movements.

Belly Dancing is coming to Sundays at 7 pm for February.

Rachel Koenig, also known as “the Zephyr” will be teaching a four-week Belly Dance class on Sunday evening's. This course has a huge “buzz” at the studio.  Rachel's Saturday class last month had FIFTY WOMEN in it.  Every woman we talk to says she plans to groove her moves and swerve her curves to the erotic, sensual music. Rumor has it this class increases their allure and makes them irresistible to men!  One thing we can tell you - the men were so curious we practically had to post a security guard outside the door in January!
 

 

Rhythm and Blues Twostep is a popular dance used in African-American nightclubs. Taught by Willie Bushnell and Ronnie Alexander, R&B Twosteppin' is a partner dance similar to Zydeco. The man and woman first dance in closed position, then the man "swings her out".

The basic is a 6-count whereas Zydeco is an 8-count. Since the patterns are kind of similar, it can get confusing to learn without some guidance. Also known as Steppin’ and Swing Out in different areas, R&B Twostep is the perfect marriage between East coast and West coast swing. It has east coast footwork but has a strong west coast flare. It is danced mainly to R&B music such R Kelly's "Step in the Name of Love."

Latin Dancing--Some Like It Hot!
This is the perfect chance to learn the basics of four famous Latin dances: Cha-Cha, Rumba, Mambo and Samba. Before Ricky Martin brought Salsa to the forefront, Cha-Cha was the most popular Latin dance of all. Today Cha-Cha is still one of the sexiest and easiest dances to learn. Rumba is a hot, sensual, slow Latin dance that works very well to sexy slow Jazz music. Mambo is the predecessor of Salsa. Brought to fame in Dirty Dancing and Havana Nights, Mambo is a pretty sexy dance in its own right. Samba is the famous dance of Carnivale in Rio de Janiero, fast and scintillating!

Dancing In the Moonlight-- Sinatra Boxfox, Waltz & Rumba
Foxtrot, Waltz, and Rumba are three dances that share extremely similar footwork based on the boxstep. By grouping the three dances together, the learning time can be cut dramatically. Sinatra music is synonymous with Foxtrot such as "Witchcraft", "The Way You Look Tonight", and "New York, New York". Waltz is Cinderella's legendary dance of romance. It is danced to classics such as "You Look So Good In Love", "Could I Have This Dance?", "Greensleeves", and "Auld Lang Syne". Less is known about the mysterious Rumba, the Latin equivalent to Waltz. This graceful, sensual dance is perfect for Latin jazz, slow salsas, and popluar music such as "Under the Boardwalk", "Yesterday", and "It's Now or Never". This course is perfect in preparation for weddings, jazz combos on a dinner date, and New Year's Eve. It is also a perfect class to take for a cruise trip. The three dances work perfectly to the Atrium bands playing ballroom classics.

MARTIAN WHIP TECHNIQUE - WHIP

Sunday night at 7 pm introduces a brand new Whip class at SSQQ known as Martian Whip Technique I.  That's a pretty big title so let's shorten it to Whip Technique.  In conjunction with a parallel West Coast Swing Technique class on Thursday, the two Technique classes can be taken for the price of one.

Furthermore if you wish to bypass the Whip class and just take the WCS Tech class or vice versa, that's fine. Both classes are completely independent of each other, but serve the same purpose - the Technique classes were designed to give graduates of Lunar Whip a place to get more seasoning before taking on Martian Whip on Fridays.

Taught by Rick Archer, the Sunday Whip Technique class will concentrate primarily on polishing the women's Whip hip motion so that it is graceful.  Many women fail to master the hip motion because it is so difficult to learn the first time around. Well, guess what?  The second time around should be the charm.

In addition to polishing the hip motion for the ladies, Whip Technique will concentrate on the flashy two-hand double resistance leads. This important feature of the Whip is NO LONGER TAUGHT as part of the Beginning thru Lunar classes.  It is so difficult to do well, we dropped it from our program so the classes could move faster. Whip Technique offers the perfect opportunity to bring this important Whip move back. Have you ever noticed that almost all West Coast patterns are led with one hand?   Interestingly, most Whip patterns are led with two hands!  We will show you how the two dances fit together like a glove.

Have you ever heard of the Stray Cat Strut?  Or the Sleazy Bar Walkaround?  What about the Snaparound?  Or the Hook Step?  These are all major two-hand Whip patterns that we ignore in our earlier classes because there isn't time to get to them. These patterns are just some of the many features of the Whip you never see taught anymore because West Coast Swing is major game in town. 

And did you know there are a half-dozen Bump exit patterns we never cover in levels 1 through 4 that you will learn in this class? 

Suddenly all these patterns are ready to be brought back to life in the Sunday Whip Technique class.

Please note that we reserve the right to expect a certain skill level to take these classes. The two Technique classes are for graduates of Lunar Whip or an equivalent class elsewhere. The two classes are meant to form a bridge between Lunar Whip and Martian Whip.

One more note: there will be a Technique II class on Sundays and Thursdays in June if you wish to continue, but we go back to Tech I in July. This program is limited to two-months.

MARTIAN WHIP TECHNIQUE - WEST COAST SWING

Thursdays marks the start of Texas State Whip Champion Bryan Spivey's new Martian Technique class II. Bryan's Thursday class will concentrate strictly on West Coast Swing. The West Coast Swing is a national dance. If you were to take our classes anywhere else in the country, you would not hear a word about the Whip. WCS would be the only game in town.

So we are going to pretend you live in another city. You will take this class as if the Whip never existed. One immediate advantage will be that you will learn how to dance with someone who only knows how to West Coast (which is 98% of all Swing dancers in America!).

For example, do you know how the Closed Basic is handled in West Coast Swing?  Here at SSQQ we use primarily the Whip version of the Closed Basic. But after you finish Bryan's WCS Technique class you will discover how the West Coasters handle this important pattern.

Bryan's WCS Technique class will start with everything you learned in the first four months of SSQQ Whip/WCS and cover the WCS aspects again in fine detail. Not only will the ladies learn their ball-crosses and passing steps all over again, they will learn more about the "And 1" WC Basic, they will learn six variations on their passing steps, six variations on their anchors, when to hijack, how to hijack, plus flicks, dips, lunges, and every other footwork trick in the book.

And what will the men learn?  They will improve their footwork dramatically as well as their leads, master the difficult two-hand "Rock and Go" patterns, learn to lead lunges and dips, and much more. And don't forget the ultra important Tarzan and Jane patterns - ask Bryan to explain!

In a nutshell there are so many fundamentals in West Coast Swing that all we can do is give you the highlights in the first four months. Now in West Coast Technique I and II, Bryan can polish what you know and introduce many new dimensions of the dance as well.

So you graduate from SSQQ Lunar Whip. Here are your new options:
You can go straight to Friday Martian Whip and skip the Technique level.
You can take Friday Martian and the Technique classes simultaneously.
You can wait on Martian Whip and stick to the Sunday-Thursday Technique program while you get your skills up to speed.

The Technique Program is a very sophisticated new feature of our dance program. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at how rugged these two classes will be while we polish old skills and introduce new areas you never even knew existed.

And you can take BOTH for the price of one. And you can repeat them for Half-Price at any time further down the road.

 

Bryan and Lisa's Monday Night Rock and Go Technique I in July
Prerequisite: Completion of the SSQQ four month Basics program or the equivalent thereof.
This is an Advanced Course.

Rock and Go Patterns are West Coast Swing shortcut patterns. When combined with Alternating Triples, Rock and Go Patterns speed up the dance dramatically with a dozen clever new patterns including the flashy Tarzan and Jane Chest Lunge and the Viennese Waltz Alternating Triple Pattern. These patterns are not difficult and they are a great deal of fun.

Please note that we will offer a second level in August if you wish.

 

Ballroom Dancing for Cruises

On Monday, June 6 at 7 pm,  Marla Archer and Marty Raber will introduce a new course called "Ballroom Dancing for Cruises".  SSQQ takes two cruises a year, so we have a pretty good idea what to expect. Marla Archer is also the SSQQ Travel Agent, so she can answer any question you have about cruise trips from dancing to rock climbing!

Based on past experience, we know the Carnival Ships out of Galveston have a Big Band dance early in the trip. They get the ship's orchestra to play Big Band Swing music and put the dancers right out on the big stage. You better know how to Swing dance and Foxtrot!

The Royal Caribbean Ships out of Galveston have their Orchestra perform as well at the Captain's Reception in the "Shall We Dance Lounge".  Again you need to know Swing and Foxtrot, but they threw in a Waltz and a Cha Cha last trip we took as well.

The RCCL Rhapsody also has a live band that plays Ballroom music every night out in the Centrum. It isn't unusual at all to hear them play Cha Chas, Rumbas, Waltzes, and Foxtrots.

Ballroom Dancing is not as common in American Life as it once was. However you would be surprised at how many opportunities you get to use this kind of dancing aboard Cruise ships!

Slow Dance and Foxtrot for Holiday Parties!
Marla
Christmas and New Year is the only time of year many people dance at all.

As New Year's Eve and the office Christmas parties approach, this is the time to master the lost art of formal dancing!  This course prepares you not only for Christmas parties but the fancy New Year's Eve parties as well.

When Sinatra's "New York New York" comes on at Midnight, you will be ready to Foxtrot.  And when Holiday Slow Dance standards like Nancy Wilson's "What are You Doing New Year's Eve?" and Bing Crosby's "Baby, It's Cold Outside" play at your Holiday Parties, you will be ready to hit the floor and dance without a self-conscious bone in your body.  You might even be surprised to see you are enjoying yourself out there!

 

Three Left Feet on Tuesday is a follow-up to the better known Two Left Feet class. This class prepares you to dance at practically any occasion - wedding reception, class reunion, or private party with a band. It covers Western, Salsa, Freestyle, Zydeco, and Slow Dancing.

Intermediate twostep polka  advanced twostep polka

 

Intermediate Twostep and Polka was not been offered as a 4-week group class in several years until we featured it in November 2005.

The class was such a hit we decided to offer an "Advanced" follow-up.  Please note all men are welcome to take "Advanced Twostep" even if they did not take Intermediate.  In an odd twist, "Advanced" is probably easier than "Intermediate". We will explain

This is a great class for men to take!!  It features advanced training on many useful Twostep/Polka patterns such as Crossovers, Conversations, Zigzags, Parallels, Lariats, and much more.  The Prerequisite for men to take this class is that they must have completed our Beginning Twostep class and they MUST bring a partner.

The problem with this class is that clearly men need to take this class more than women.   Any lady who knows how to Twostep and can follow doesn't have anywhere near as much to learn as the men do.  If the lead is there, she will figure out what you are doing.  As a result in the past we have had THREE times as many MEN sign up for the class as women.   Then the men get frustrated because they don't have enough women to practice with.  And they look at us and tell us to go find them some women.  It isn't quite as easy to balance a class like this as they think.

So our solution is to teach this class as "couples only".  In other words, the men should bring a partner.  To make it easier to find a partner, we will make a special offer.  Any lady can take this class for Free!

Here is how it is done.   Men can register themselves Online and pay the regular $46 (or the men can do Walkin; either way is fine).  Then on the Friday night of the class they will need to bring their lady partner with them and let her register at the desk.  She will not be charged any money.

We will still be switching partners, but this way the men can be sure they will not only learn some very valuable patterns, they will always have ladies to practice with.

The bad news is that this class is not likely to offered again in the near future. This is a good time to take this special class.
 

 

Death Valley
Scott

Scott Ladell is a leader on the Western Competition Dance Scene.  Students that Scott has trained have won many honors.  Scott will deliver the goods whether you are an Advanced Social Dancer or someone ready to take on the big dogs on the competition stage.  Either way, Scott is your man!

Building on the success of Scott's successful Ghost Town series, Scott thought his students might enjoy learning a series of the most advanced and challenging Western Swing patterns.
 

 

Dakota's WCS Hijacks in April
Prerequisite: Completion of the SSQQ four month Basics program or the equivalent thereof.
This is an Advanced Course.

Dakota's Monday Night WCS "Hijacks" is a new course. Hijacks are sophisticated, deeply-clever advanced West Coast Swing techniques where the woman periodically takes control of the dance and "does her own thing". Or the man can signal to the woman that this would be a good time to show her stuff.

Obviously this marvelous technique opens the doors for both Cleverness and Chaos. Dakota will go over the ground rules - when to Hijack, when NOT to Hijack, how to signal a Hijack, how to get out of a Hijack, and so on. He will also teach the man and the woman how to hit the breaks using clever Hijack patterns plus advanced patterns where the man and the woman completely change the dance pattern. Don't miss this unique course. He will show you how to add dance movements that express or mimic what your hear in the music. This class will include work on what to do during "Breaks" in the music.
 

 

SWINGIN' THE BLUES! - Maureen 
Prerequisite: Advanced Swing

Maureen Brunetti's "SWINGIN' the BLUES" is being taught for the first time on July 16th.  Early indications are that the "Blues Dance" is an interesting form of Slow Dancing.

Based on a dance originated by the Erin Stevens of Lindy Hop fame out in California, this class will teach you a number of variations for slow dancing with a partner to music ranging from slow, romantic ballads to swinging bluesy tunes.

The Blues Dance resembles a little rumba, a little argentine tango, a little swing, a little slow dance, and a lot of style.  The class includes the Blues Basic, dips, grapevines, rondes, turns and syncopations to different music.

 

TANGO DIPS AND LUNGES - Dakota
Prerequisite: Intermediate Tango (Couples only}

Tango makes more use of Dips and Lunges (the Cortez) than any other dance.

Tango is the dance of passion. It is meant for people who are ready to dance very close. No other dance captures the essense of these intimate situations better than Tango, the legendary dance of darkness.

SALSA TIMING AND MOVEMENT- Alex
Prereq: Completed Beginning Salsa

The sound of salsa is unique. It is so full of flavor that when you hear it you just can't keep from moving your body. But the very qualities that make salsa so engaging also make it complicated and hard to dance on beat.

This class will begin with a breakdown of salsa music: how the main instruments are structured and how they relate to the beat and your steps. Within the first 30 minutes you will have the tools to begin to hear and dance on time. Then you will put your newfound understanding of salsa music to practice and work on body isolation techniques to loosen your muscles and get you dancing more fluidly. Lastly you will apply your new skills to a fun pattern that will impress and sharpen your lead and follow ability.

Whether you are just learning salsa and want to start off on the right foot, or if you have been dancing for awhile and you want to sharpen your skills, or if you are advanced and you want to take your dancing to the next level… This class is for all.

INTERMEDIATE SINATRA FOXTROT - Rick
For Advanced Dancers and graduates of Western Waltz

Sinatra Foxtrot is an Accelerated class. It assumes you have completed two months of Western Waltz. If you don’t know what a Triple Twinkle is ahead of time, you will struggle in this class.

Foxtrot is the high society forerunner to the Texas Twostep. But oddly enough, many of the advanced Foxtrot patterns are strikingly similar to Western Waltz.

This class was offered at Christmas time last year.  It was extremely popular. Women love Sinatra and they love to dance. Consequently they loved this class!

There are three good reasons for you guys to take this class:
1) It will help you review your Western Waltz patterns
2) You will find that practically everything you know to Western Waltz can be transferred to Foxtrot
3) Best of all, the ladies will love you for learning how to lead this dance. So when I play “New York, New York” at our Party, you guys will be ready to shine!