What is Our Evening Like?

An Evening with USA Dance Charlottesville

 Class – 7:00 – 8:00 PM

Unless otherwise announced, our dance evenings begin with a group class taught by a local, regional or national professional, or by a local or regional advanced student. The classes are included in the price of admission.  (In some cases the instructor offers private lessons during the afternoon before the evening group class and this will be noted on the calendar; please contact us for more details if you are interested.) Over the course of the year we offer classes in many American-style ballroom and rhythm dances (Rumba, Cha-Cha, EC Swing, Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Viennese Waltz) and many International-style ballroom and Latin dances (Rumba, Cha-cha, Jive, Paso Doble, Samba, Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz).  We often include some West Coast Swing and Salsa as well.

Social Dance – 8 – 10:00 PM

The class is followed by a social dance from 8 PM until 10:00 PM where, together, regulars and newcomers can practice all of their favorite dances throughout the evening.

We typically have one-two mixers during the evening, during which time we line up followers and leaders (who wish to participate) to randomly dance with one another for a handful of foxtrots and/or another dance.  This is a way to meet new people and make new friends.

Some, though not all, monthly dances include a break around 9 PM at which time we might offer a brief featured performance or two by local or regional amateur or professional dancers, also included in the price of admission.

Music ~

For two hours we play a variety of fabulous music including both contemporary popular and classic songs perfect for American/International Ballroom and Latin dance as well as East and West Coast Swing. Depending on the month, we might have a wonderful playlist, DJ or live music!

Attendees ~

Who comes to our dances? We welcome newcomers… we were all new to dancing or to this community once ourselves! Our dancers include local amateurs and professionals of all ages who cannot stop dancing. No partner is necessary. Everyone comes to enjoy great company, music and exercise and/or to perfect their new or advanced dance skills further.
We come from a variety of local and regional studios, schools and/or community organizations. Our welcoming and friendly dancers are beginners, social dancers, advanced competitive dancers and professionals. Our community includes high school, UVA and PVCC ballroom students. Many of our friends join us regularly from Richmond, Lynchburg, Waynesboro, Roanoke, Northern Virginia and elsewhere!

Atmosphere, Refreshments & Parking ~

Currently our dances are held at The Center at Belvedere. (If the venue changes for a particular event, it will be noted on information advertised about that particular dance and our calendar.)  They have a nice ballroom floor and  clean facilities, readily accessible water fountains and free parking next to the building. There are plenty of chairs for those who would like to catch their breath from time to time and/or to enjoy watching other dancers. We offer light refreshments, water and a few non-alcoholic beverages, included in the price of your admission.  Dress is smart casual to dressy.  We often have a theme for the month and encourage folks to dress accordingly if they wish – express yourself! We provide a non-smoking, alcohol-free evening! Please wear soft-soled shoes.

Admission ~

General $10
Students with I.D. $ 5
Dance Teachers: FREE

Admission price includes the class, the social dance, refreshments, performances (if any) and parking. 

Cash or checks only.  We cannot accept credit or debit cards.

Sometimes our price schedule changes, but this will be clearly stated in advertising for a specific dance, for very specific reasons (fundraiser dance, special event, etc.).