Ballroom Dance Club: See You in September

Roger and Linda Shamburg (photo by Vivian Herman)

It’s September in SaddleBrooke, and the returning snowbird migration begins. Time for them and us year-round SaddleBrooke Ballroom Dance Club (SBDC) members to don our dancing shoes and get ready for the classes and events offered by the SBDC. The September class will be Merengue for Beginners, taught by Roger and Linda Shamburg. This lively dance originated in the Dominican Republic and is very popular, because its basic steps, merely marching to the rhythm, are quite easy. Since it is a Latin dance, there are a lot of hip and leg movements. Of course, Roger and Linda, accomplished dancers themselves, will teach us many twists and turns that make the dance not only look intricate but add to its dancing fun. These classes are offered to members free of charge and will be held on Sundays at 3 p.m. and on Tuesdays at 5 p.m. in the MountainView ballroom.

Our first dance party of this fall season is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 13. Details for this event are still in the planning stages, so check the SBDC website sbballroomdance.com as we get closer for more details, as well as how to register.

SBDC will once again offer Novice classes, taught by Dale and Ann Pizzitola. Classes will be offered on Wednesday, Sept. 4, focusing on waltz and hustle, and again the following week, Wednesday, Sept. 11, this time covering foxtrot and merengue. Both classes will be held in the DesertView Mariposa Room from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. This Novice program is a wonderful way to introduce some basic patterns in several ballroom dances to new or inexperienced dancers. Not only are Dale and Ann there to teach and demonstrate the steps and simple patterns, but “wranglers,” experienced SBDC members, are available to dance with, watch, and advise “newbies.” The atmosphere is congenial, everyone has an enjoyable time, and most of all, one comes away with an appreciation for the dances taught and the confidence to try them on the dance floor.

Show off those new moves at our Novice Practice Party on Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the DesertView Mariposa Room. Check the SBDC website sbballroomdance.com for more details.

The SaddleBrooke Ballroom Dance Club is primarily a social club. Members are welcoming, friendly, and easy to get to know. And as a bonus, we learn to dance! Dance has been known to help stop the aging process by involving our mind in learning and performing the steps, by engaging our muscles to move to the tempo of the music, and by allowing us to meet new people who eventually become friends. Come try us out! Novice classes are open at no charge to members and non-members alike. It’s a terrific opportunity to try our club out and see how becoming a member could enhance your life.