Diana Wille
November provides an opportunity to learn rumba in lessons from the SaddleBrooke Ballroom Dance Club (SBDC)! Rumba is characterized by its sensual and romantic feel and is therefore often referred to as the Dance of Love. Although it has a Latin feel, it is one of the most versatile dances, easily compatible with slower rock, jazz, and Latin tunes. Bertie Litchfield and Barry Sheppard, two very accomplished dancers, will be teaching Beginning Rumba for the full month of November. Bertie said, “It is an easy dance to learn, with the music setting the mood, allowing time for sensual hip moves.” “Rumba” comes from a Spanish verb that means dancing, party, and having a fun time with sensuality and romanticism. What a great dance to have in your wheelhouse!
Rumba is an Afro-Cuban dance, a romantic ballroom dance
in 4/4 time that incorporates flirtation between dance partners. Interestingly enough, in the 1920s it was prohibited in Cuba, where it originated, because it was viewed as dangerous and too sexually charged. It became popular in the U.S. during the 1930s and 1940s and has continued as a favorite to this day. And it is not prohibited this November in SaddleBrooke!
So, if having a good time with sensuality and romanticism isn’t enough to get you on the dance floor, Barry said, “Ballroom dancing is good for the brain, the body, and the soul, and guess what—it is fun!” Ballroom dancing incorporates two of the three main activities to help curb dementia. Yes, ballroom dancing and socializing are in the top three activities (a Mediterranean diet is the third).
Lessons are held on Sundays from 3 to 4 p.m. and Tuesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. starting Nov. 3 in the beautiful MountainView ballroom at SaddleBrooke TWO. You do need to register to participate! If you are already an SBDC member, you can sign up on our website sbballroomdance.com. You do need to be a member to attend the lessons, but you can attend one lesson before becoming a member to be sure it’s a good fit for you. Just email [email protected] and let us know you are coming.
Novice Classes
If you are new to dancing or a bit rusty, check out our Novice classes, taught by resident professional dance instructors Dale and Ann Pizzitola. Classes are free and you do not need to be an SBDC member. Classes begin at 4 p.m. and are held in the Mariposa Room at DesertView. The first class is Wednesday, Nov. 6, and will focus on foxtrot and hustle. The Nov. 13 class will feature tango and merengue. There will also be a Novice Practice Party on Nov. 20, allowing you to review and practice the patterns you have learned. The party runs from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Mariposa Room.
Dances and Practice Events
SBDC holds multiple dances and practice sessions weekly and monthly. Check all the available options on our website sbballroomdance.com. We know that dancing is a wonderful way to keep our brains healthy, bodies active, social connections close, and to just plain have fun! Check out our website at sbballroomdance.com for our events, activities, and classes. Remember, the SaddleBrooke Ballroom Dance Club is where the learning continues, and the fun never ends.