How much does it cost?  Classes are $40 per person for a 4-week course of 1-hour lessons. Occasionally we have a 3-week course that will incur a different cost, and weekend workshops are priced differently, too, depending upon the length and level of the class. See each month's schedule for workshop costs.

What is a "workshop"?   A workshop is a one-time only dance class, usually held on weekend afternoons. Normally 1-1/2 to 2 hours in length, they are offered to introduce students to a new dance to see if they like it before committing to a 4-week course. It's a great way to introduce your friends to dancing. Workshops are also offered at Advanced levels to afford higher level students an opportunity to learn some new "moves" quickly.  Look for workshops on the current classes page - we usually offer one a month.

May I sign up at the door? Yes, for all but the Wednesday 8:00 p.m. Ballroom Dancing classes. Those are sponsored by the City of Bakersfield Recreation & Parks and they request pre-registration through them. You can call 326-FUNN for information on registering. Please come a few minutes early to have time to get checked in, and please make every effort to be on time.  If you are in class from the beginning you'll have a better understanding than if you come in the middle of an explanation; also, it's not fair to the teacher or the rest of the class to have to keep repeating things for latecomers.

What should I wear to my first lesson? Dress comfortably and casually. The only really important item of apparel is shoes. Comfortable shoes that stay securely on your feet are imperative. The best dance shoes have soles that are thin and flexible. Avoid wearing sandals, shoes with no back, platform shoes, or shoes with rubber soles which stick to the floor, making it difficult to slide your feet. Leather-soled shoes are best.

How long does it take to learn to dance? That varies with each student - some people can be dancing after the first class. However, since we only retain about 30% of what we learn the first time we see or hear it, to get the very best foundation of basics, we recommend that the majority of students take the Beginning Level 1 class at least twice before moving on to Beginning Level 2. If you aren't sure, ask the Instructor if the next level is right for you.

Do I have to have a partner? No, all classes rotate partners, although special consideration may be given to couples who do not wish to rotate. Please speak to the instructor prior to the class if you do not wish to change partners. Registration does not guarantee an equal balance of leaders and followers in any given class, but it usually works itself out fairly closely. Even if you have a partner, it is the unanimous opinion of the best teachers that rotation in group classes accelerates the learning process of everyone in the class. Since many of our upper level students take beginning level classes to improve their own basics or to help even out the gender mix, by rotating you'll get a chance to dance with them and improve faster. When couples choose not to rotate, often they get frustrated and give up after a few lessons. By dancing with various dancers of different levels you will get a better perspective of what a good lead will feel like. In large classes you may rotate through ten partners or so and then back to your partner over and over. Each time you get back to your partner, you will notice a difference in the feel of the lead or follow, and you'll have something to compare it with to help each other out.

May I buy a gift certificate for a friend? Yes, gift certificates are available for purchase, and make a great gift for family and friends. They are available for either group classes or private lessons, in any dollar amount you choose.

Are Private Lessons available? Yes, private lessons are available for singles or couples at a rate of $50/hr. If you want to learn to dance in a hurry for a special event, or would like one-on-one attention to your dance needs, call or e-mail Cianne to schedule a private lesson. Please note we must have 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule private lesson appointments. Except in the case of an extreme emergency, if less notice is given, you will be charged for the lesson.

Are Group Private Lessons available? Yes, Cianne has taught private group classes for employees of Aera Energy, Wells Fargo Bank and State Farm Insurance, as well as First Presbyterian Church members. She can also schedule sessions just for a group of friends or a wedding party.  Ask your employee activities committee to contact Cianne to schedule a group class for YOUR company. It’s great for stress reduction and allows employees to socialize in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. It’s also fun to plan a group class for 3 or 4 couples to learn together, for a Singles Club, Youth Group, etc. Call or e-mail Cianne for rates and time availability.