Strictly Ballroom: Where to sweep across the floor in Dubai
What’s On details ballroom dancing classes in Dubai. Find out about new classes including James and Alex Studios and Crystal Dance Centre.
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Ballroom dancing is more than just a sequin soiree.
Thanks to the rise of much-loved televised ballroom shows like BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, many may know ballroom in its competitive form, but before scoreboards, sequins, and awkward routines, it was popularised as dance that encapsulated romance and passion. Here’s how you can bring your own ballroom fantasy to life right here in Dubai.
CRYSTAL DANCE CENTRE
Ballroom champion Greta Laurinaityte has won many dancing competitions in her career but the latest feather in her cap is her new dance studio in Dubai. Specialising in ballroom dance, students can choose from a variety of styles including the merengue and the Argentine tango in a private session or a group class. She also holds wedding dance classes for brides- and grooms-to-be.
Dome Tower, Cluster N, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, Sun to Thur 1pm to 9pm. Tel: (052) 2858304. Metro: JLT. crystaldancecenter.com
JAMES AND ALEX STUDIOS
If your ballroom skills are more David Brent than John Travolta, don’t hang up those dancing shoes just yet. James And Alex Studios has started beginner ballroom dance classes at its Dubai Media City branch. The class runs regularly on Sunday nights and students learn the entire ballroom repertoire including swing, foxtrot and the waltz.
Concord Tower, Dubai Media City, Dubai, Sun 7pm, Dhs65. Tel: (04) 4470773. Metro: Nakheel. jamesandalex.com
CAPELLA CLUB DUBAI
Though not officially on their class list, Capella Club offer the chance to book one-on-one ballroom sessions. Just call up and suggest your ideal times, and they will do their best to find an instructor who can use their space.
Capella Club, Silverene Towers, Dubai Marina, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4526000. Metro: Jumeirah Lakes Towers. capella-club.com
OR HOW ABOUT… LINDY-HOP?
The Roaring Twenties saw jazz take off across the USA and dance floors buzzed with a new dance called swing. African Americans in Harlem, New York, brought us the most enduring form – lindy hop – an eight-step partner dance that’s all about having fun. Learn the basics at a friendly beginners’ class.
Lindy Hop Dubai, Speakeasy Bar, Ramada Plaza, JBR, beginners Sun 8pm, free. Taxi: Ramada Plaza. facebook.com/LindyHopDubai