If you want to learn how to Waltz, Samba, and Cha Cha like the celebrities do on Dancing With The Stars, you can certainly go to a dance studio in your local area and sign up for Ballroom lessons. Classes range from group to private, depending on your budget and preference. But what if you really want to go all out...and learn from one of the DWTS professionals?
Many of the pros have their own studios, classes, and special events that they run during the off season of Dancing With The Stars. These activities are happening from New Jersey to California, and several places in between. Here are some of the professionals who will be happy to teach you!
Cheryl Burke
Two-time DWTS champion Cheryl Burke has opened her own studios in California under the name Cheryl Burke Dance. Currently she has two studios, one in the San Francisco area and another in Orange County, and is looking to expand in the future. While most classes are taught by other top-notch professionals, Cheryl does lead some classes and workshops herself. You may visit her website for dates, times, and more information.
Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Tony Dovolani
Maks and his family started their chain of Dance With Me studios, which not only produces more Ballroom champions and professionals but also teaches people of all ages and professions to dance. Tony recently signed on with Maks to become part of the Dance With Me family, and both of them give private lessons when their schedules allow. These men put their heart and soul into everything they do, and you could not ask for better instructors. Please check the website for events and schedules at the Long Island, Soho, and Ridgefield, New Jersey locations.
Louis Van Amstel
Louis has a unique approach for those who want to learn Ballroom. His classes at Louis' Dance Blast do not require a partner - they focus on learning the moves, burning calories, and having fun. Louis realizes that there are many people who would like to learn but cannot find a partner to join them for traditional Ballroom dance lessons, and he would like to help them get fit.
Louis has also coached several of the Dancing With The Stars pros before they appeared on the show. He bases many of his classes in Utah and California, along with special events in Cabo San Lucas and other locations. As he is expanding his franchise by taking it on the road, please visit his website for information on possible locations near you.
Superstars of Ballroom Event
From February 4 - 6, 2011, many of your favorite pros from DWTS, along with many other professional dancers, will host the Superstars of Ballroom Dance Camp in Burbank, California. Everyone from beginners to champions is welcome, with group classes taught by Corky Ballas, Cheryl Burke, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Tony Dovolani, Chelsie Hightower and other pros. (List of participating pros subject to change.)
Private lessons are also available with a pro of your choosing, which must be reserved ahead of time on the website along with your camp reservation. Along with the lessons are evening parties with live music, so it's more than just a regular camp atmosphere. Don't miss this amazing event...start the new year out with a bang!
Besides these classes and events, some of the professional dancers also drop into other dance studios from time to time to help out with lessons or hold special classes. If you are interested in any of those, please inquire at your local studio for further information.
Ballroom dancing is a great workout and so much fun that you may not even realize you're exercising until after your lesson. Look into events in your area...and if you have the chance, learn from a Dancing With The Stars pro!
Marie Cauley - Marie Cauley
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