Salsa Partnerwork Technique

Mondays, 7 PM - 8:30 PM

PERIDANCE CENTER
126 E 13th Street
Between 3rd and 4th Ave.
one block south of Union Square
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This course addresses three major aspects of social dancing: communication, style, and spinning technique.

First, each class will utilize a turn pattern to demonstrate essential leading and following techniques necessary for non-verbal communication on the dance floor. Leaders will learn how to execute figures with the appropriate signals, timing, and momentum. Followers will learn how to respond rapidly to these signals with the appropriate body resistance and speed. The goal of this aspect of the course is to facilitate clear and seamless social dancing with a variety of dance partners.

The turn patterns demonstrated in each class will change weekly, but the skills emphasized will remain the same. The instructors will also present variations in styling that can be used with each figure. Improvisational "hesitations" will be introduced to help the dancer feel more comfortable with these situations on the dance floor.

Lastly, spinning technique with a partner will be presented in detail. Technique drills will be a routine part of each class followed by a close examination of body alignment, balance, momentum, hand & arm positioning, and timing during partnerwork spins.

Overall, both leaders and followers are expected to develop a social dancing technique that is comfortable, effective, and impressive.

Level I is appropriate for both beginner and more experienced dancers seeking a strong foundation in partnerwork technique, styling, and spinning. It will introduce fundamental figures including:

• Inside & Outside Turns
• Swing Step
• Wraps & Unwraps
• Simultaneous Turns
• Hand & Shoulder Stops
• Multiple Spins (introduction)

Level II is designed for the experienced dancer who has mastered the techniques taught in Level I. It will build Level I skills into complex turn patterns, multiple spins, and advanced figures.