As a member of about 2 months now, I can easily leave ADC a 5 star review. For some background info on myself… I am… Read more 23 years old and had absolutely no experience with ballroom (or any other type of) dancing prior to walking in. My goal was, and still is, merely to be competent dancing in a social setting. My close group of friends always seem to know what they’re doing when the music comes on, and if I can be as good as them or a little bit better, I’ll be a happy camper.————That all being said, after a quick internet search 2 months ago for “salsa lessons Boca Raton”, American Dancesport Center caught my eye as a local studio. I sent them an email which was promptly returned by their lovely co-owner, Janis, and I was there that same night for my first of 3 private dance lessons ($35 for the 3 classes as an introductory promotion!). Paola was my instructor and she would go on to show me the basics of “Salsa” and “Batchata”. I still can’t believe how Paola, as well as all their other instructors, are able to break down these extremely complex dance moves into smaller, more feasible steps. It took me just 10 minutes into my first class to feel this “rhythm” thing people often speak of, and after just 3 classes I was en route to a Latin American club to go dancing with my friends. I would go on to hold my own that night.————After 2 months of attending group classes, I have progressed far more than expected. Aside from now knowing that not every Spanish song that comes on is “Salsa”, I can dance some Batchata, Rumba, Bolero, Tango, Waltz, Fox Trot, Cha Cha, Salsa, and Merengue. I am not spectacular at any of these dances, or even good for that matter, but I CAN hold a dance for at least a couple of minutes without completely embarrassing myself. After putting just a few hours a week into it? I’ll take it.————Since it’s not all about me though, I’ll finish this review with some comments on the studio, its’ staff, and its’ members. I have been in group classes with members of all ages and skill levels. Not once have I come across one with any kind of ego or sense of impatience towards another. Everyone seems so willing to help out if asked. ADC also has a bi-weekly dance party at the studio where us members can put our new skills to the test with each other. The instructors do a great job keeping all of the members engaged and having fun at these parties. Though it may seem corny, these parties are a great taste of what dancing is outside of the class setting. It is an awesome community over at ADC and I look forward to improving my skills and making new friends there for several months to come. ——-
Andrew Perlin
