Roll Up The Rug!




   "Fabulous "Cha Cha" Variations, with a little Blues Blending! 

In this workshop, Ari will quickly review the Cha Cha basics, then introduce a variety of classic and modern combinations that you can blend with blues pulses and which will get you out dancing with the best of them!   Perfect for both beginning dancers or for experienced dancers who want to focus on partnering and connection while learning a whole lot more about blending blues with cha cha!  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  


 3:00 - 5:30pm:   "Getting Fancy with the "Foxtrot"

Ari will start by reviewing the basic footwork & foundations to this fluid and elegantly flowing dance, then quickly move on to some fun variations, as well as introduce how to effortlessly transition from one move to the next.   







  • 7:30-8:30:   Int/Adv "Night Club 2-Step" Sensations:  Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 25 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed)  All welcome - No partner needed.
  • 8:15-9:15:  "Swinging Outside The Box" - Setting Your Tootsies Free!    Learn the art of "poly-rhythmic improvisation" and the use of alternate 4, 6, and 8-count rhythms in swing with this fun East Coast Swing based approach to dance that addresses the use of tight partnering, framework, lead/follow connection, and energy to break in and out of 6-count rhythms.  Amazingly simple to do, yet so much fun!     Perfect for both beginning dancers or for experienced dancers who want to focus on partnering and connection while learning a whole lot more about dancing outside the box. I do play a lot of wonderful swing-fusion & swing-blues when I DJ, so it's the perfect way to prepare for our 2nd & 4th Fabulous Friday Dances at Om Culture.    (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  All Welcome, No Partner needed
  • 6:30-7:30pm:   "Intro to Latin-Blues Blending"-- Fun Double-Pulse Salsa Variations!  In this very unique class, you will not only learn some fun basic blues steps and stylings, but more significantly, it will introduce you to the core concept of "effortless dance" -- dancing entirely through energy, where both partners can ultimately lead, follow, and listen concurrently.  These concepts will profoundly change the way you think about all of your dancing (not just blues).  Not to be missed!  Perfect for both beginning dancers or for more experienced dancers who want to work on fine-tuning their partnering, connection, and musicality skill, or who would like to try some role-reversal.  This class is also a perfect introduction to the kind of dancing you can experience every 2nd & 4th Friday at Om Culture.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No Partner Needed.  
  • 7:30-8:30:  "East Coast Swing & Beyond!"  - Transport yourself back to the wonderful mid century era of the 1940's-1960's by learning the most popular dances of that period - the upbeat fun East Coast Swing.   We'll start by reviewing the basic footwork & foundations to the dance, then quickly move on to some fun variations, as well as introduce how to effortlessly transition from one move to another.    Perfect for beg/int level dancers.  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 7:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner neede
  • 7:30-8:30:  "An Intro to West Coast Swing - Blues!"  -  Early WCS was originally based on blues music, movement, and connection, and as such, was an incredible way to learn how to add effortless improvisation and styling to your partnership.  In this class, with a very unique approach to dance, you will not only learn the fundamentals of WCS, but more importantly, you'll come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of energy & flow in dance that can be applied to any style you do!  Not to be missed!  Ideal to take in conjunction with the 6:30pm "Night Club 2-Step" class since these dances are often done in the same venues.   (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partner needed)
  • 8:30-9:30:   "Intro to Country 2-Step (& Country Swing)" - Also known as the "Texas 2-Step", Country 2-Step in an enormously popular traveling dance done to fun, upbeat country songs that can also double as swing music when the floor gets crowded.  The fun part is knowing how to navigate between both styles in the same tune.  This class is the perfect introduction to Country 2-Step for social partner dancers, learning some fun, easy-to lead combinations that can be applied to both traveling and stationary movement. (Level: Beg/Int)  All welcome - No partn



SCHEDULE

SATURDAY, April 29th, 2017


AFTERNOON WORKSHOPS


1)  Noon - 2:30pm: "Fabulous "Cha Cha" Variations, with a little Blues Blending! 

In this workshop, Ari will quickly review the Cha Cha basics, then introduce a variety of classic and modern combinations that you can blend with blues pulses and which will get you out dancing with the best of them!   Perfect for both beginning dancers or for experienced dancers who want to focus on partnering and connection while learning a whole lot more about blending blues with cha cha!  (Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  


2)  3:00 - 5:30pm:   "Getting Fancy with the "Foxtrot"

Ari will start by reviewing the basic footwork & foundations to this fluid and elegantly flowing dance, then quickly move on to some fun variations, as well as introduce how to effortlessly transition from one move to the next.   



EVENING DANCE & FUNDRAISER


7:00 - 8:00pm:   Pre-dance lesson with Ari Levitt -- "Swing Your Socks Off!"

Ari will quickly review the basics, then learn some fabulous new East Coast Swing variations from Ari's repertoire of fun dance moves. 


8:00 - 11:00pm:  Ballroom Dance with the "Swing Fever Big Band"

Bring a finger food or appetizer to share if you would like to contribute.



LOCATION:

The Olympia Eagles Grand Ballroom,  805 4th Ave. E., Olympia, WA


COST:

WORKSHOPS: $25 for each 2 1/2 hour workshop (workshops include a half hour practice at the end). If you take both workshops the evening dance (with pre-dance lesson) is free.


DANCE:  $10/person (or FREE if you took both workshops) . Everyone 18+ Welcome. 


All Welcome, No Partner needed, No pre-registration required. 

Cash or check at the door only.


QUESTIONS:   Email:  tunafishers2003@yahoo.com

4th Fridays

"Fabulous Variety Dance"

 It's our "Best Of..." mixed music night at Om Culture.  Enjoy beautiful mix of Swing, Fox, Waltz, Ballroom & Latin tunes, plus a healthy mix of other dance styles (wcs, nc2s, fusion, 1-step, etc).  Ari teaches a wonderful all-levels dance class at 7:00 (FREE with dance admission), followed by a fabulous mix of music for your dancing pleasure.

-----------------

"LATE NIGHT FUSION SET"

Enjoy late night lyrical & micro-fusion after 10:00pm.  So much fun!

Join our 2nd & 4th Friday

FREE Virtual "Zoom" Dances!


Join our FREE "Virtual Fabulous Friday Dance" at 8pm every 2nd & 4th Friday on Zoom and get your weekend started on a high note (literally and figuratively!)

We begin with a really fun warm-up & mini-lesson, followed by two hours of great variety dance music, then cap it off with a little late night blues and fusion to soothe the soul...

Just click on the invitation below a few minutes before 8pm on Friday. You'll join right away. There is no waiting room. (the link opens at 7:45pm with warm up swing music)
I look forward to seeing you there!

Join Zoom Meeting:
  • Jan 6th (2nd Fri)         LESSON: "Solo Styling, the Hawaiian Way!"
  • Jan 20th (4th Fri)       LESSON: "Swing Rhythm Breaks"
  • Feb 12th (2nd Fri)     *Valentine Party!  LESSON: "Romantic Rhythms & Stylings"
  • Feb 26th (4th Fri)        LESSON: Solo Tango Spins
  • Mar 12th (2nd Fri)      LESSON: Learn how to do "The Camel Walk"
  • Mar 26th (4th Fri)       LESSON:  A Few Fun Charleston Solo Variations
  • Apr 9th (2nd Fri)         LESSON:  One-Pulse "Meringue" Variations and Steps
  • Apr 23rd (4th Fri)        LESSON:  Some Clsssic Vernacular Blues Solo Stylingds
  • May 14th (2nd Fri)        LESSON:  TBA
  • May 28th (4th Fri)        LESSON:  TBA
  • June 11th (2nd Fri)       LESSON:  TBA
  • June 25th (4th Fri)       LESSON:   TBA
  • July 9th (2nd Fri)          *NO ZOOM DANCE TONIGHT*
  • July 25th (4th Fri)        *NO ZOOM DANCE TONIGHT*
  • July 30th (5th Fri)        LESSON:   TBA
  • Aug 13th (2nd Fri)        *NO ZOOM DANCE TONIGHT*
  • Aug 27th (4th Fri)         *NO ZOOM DANCE TONIGHT*
  • Sept 10th (2nd Fri)         LESSON:   TBA
  • Sept 24th (4th Fri)          LESSON:  TBA
  • Oct 8th (2nd Fri)             LESSON:   TBA
  • Oct 22nd (4th Fri)          LESSON: "Monster Mash" 
  • Oct 29th (5th Fri)           LESSON:   TBA
  • Nov 12th (2nd Fri)         LESSON:  TBA  
  • Nov 26th (4th Fri) *Tentative* 1-4pm, Heber's Post-Thanksgiving Dance
  • Dec 10th (2nd Fri)         LESSON: TBA
  • Dec 24th (4th Fri)         *Holiday Party!   LESSON: "Swing Rhythm Variations"
  • Dec 30th (5th Fri)         LESSON: TBA
POSTED MARCH 1st, 2020

= "LIVE" Om Culture Dances Postponed Until Lockdown is Lifted =
.... But join us on Zoom for the next best thing!  (See details above)

In accordance with the latest Seattle King County Public Health recommendations for curtailing the spread of Corona Virus, Roll Up The Rug has decided to postpone its regular 2nd and 4th Friday dances at Om Culture until further notice.  I’m very sorry to have to do this as I know how much these kinds of dances and social events have become an integral part of our lives.  Please know that this decision comes neither lightly nor from a place of panic, but rather from an earnest and genuine concern to protect ourselves and those more vulnerable individuals in our community from contracting or spreading this very virulent and potentially fatal virus. 


The Dept of Health defines those most vulnerable (or at greatest risk) as:

  • People 60 and older
  • People with underlying health conditions including heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes
  • People who have weakened immune systems
  • People who are pregnant

The current recommendations are that people at higher risk of illness stay away from large group gatherings as much as possible, particularly if those gatherings include close contact with others.  They further recommend the following common-sense advice:

  • Stay home if you are sick, or have a chronic condition.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick or at high risk for spreading the virus.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Get a flu shot if you haven't already. 

The most important thing right now is for everyone to stay safe, to take care of each other, to prepare for events being cancelled or postponed, and to actively monitor the latest WHO, CDC, Canadian Public Health, and State Health Department recommendations.


We need to be especially vigilant about this because although we may not personally be in one of those high-risk categories mentioned above, there is a good chance that we will come into primary or secondary contact with others who are.  Our Om Culture dances usually draw in a fairly large contingent of dancers and putting these dances on hold until further notice will hopefully help to keep ourselves, our community, our friends, and our loved ones that much the healthier and safer in the days to come.


So be safe out there.  We look forward to starting up the Om Culture dances once the virus has run it’s course and the danger has passed, and we want to see you there as healthy and happy as ever!   :)


Ari



UPCOMING "Live" DANCES for 2021:

[New Dates TBA once the lockdown is over]


UPCOMING DANCES for 2020: 

  • Jan 10th (2nd Fri)       LESSON: "Latin-Blues"
  • Jan 24th (4th Fri)        LESSON: "Swing"
  • Feb 14th (2nd Fri)    *Valentine Party!  LESSON: "Romantic Rumba"
  • Feb 28th (4th Fri)       NO LESSON; Dance starts at 8pm
  • Mar 13th (2nd Fri)      LESSON: Intro to "Boogie Woogie"
  • Mar 27th (4th Fri)       NO LESSON; Dance starts at 8pm
  • Apr 10th (2nd Fri)       LESSON: "Bachata"
  • Apr 24th (4th Fri)        LESSON: "Intro to Traveling Blues"
  • May 8th (2nd Fri)       *Waltz Fest NW Party!  LESSON: "Waltz Basics"
  • May 22nd (4th Fri)      *NO DANCE TONIGHT due to Folklife Festival (come  dance to Blues at the Armory!)
  • May 29th (5th Fri)      LESSON: "Swing"
  • June 12th (2nd Fri)       LESSON: "Night Club 2-Step"
  • June 26th (4th Fri)       LESSON: "Summer Blues"
  • July 10th (2nd Fri)       LESSON: "Cha Cha"
  • July 26th (4th Fri)        LESSON: "Bachata"
  • July 31st (5th Fri)       LESSON: "Swing"
  • Aug 14th (2nd Fri)        LESSON: "Country 2-Step"
  • Aug 28th (4th Fri)        LESSON: "Night Club 2-Step"
  • Sept 11th (2nd Fri)      LESSON: "Waltz"
  • Sept 25th (4th Fri)        LESSON: "Night Club 2-Step"
  • Oct 9th (2nd Fri)           LESSON: "Blues"
  • Oct 23th (4th Fri)       *Black Cat Halloween Ball!  LESSON: "Monster Mash"   7:30 Wine & Cheese, bring finger food to share!
  • Oct 30th (5th Fri, tentative)      LESSON: "Swing"
  • Nov 13th (2nd Fri)       LESSON:  Tango-Fusion  
  • Nov 27th (4th Fri)        1-4pm, Heber's Post-Thanksgiving Potluck and Dance (bring yummy food!).  No evening dance that night
  • Dec 11th (2nd Fri)       LESSON: "Connection Skills"
  • Dec 25th (4th Fri)       *Holiday Party!   LESSON: "Swing"

SEATTLE CLASSES

We have great things in store for you!

PLEASE NOTE:  
All classes and workshops are on hold during the coronavirus outbreak.  Once the quarantine is lifted, if you would like Ari to come to your community to put on a workshop, feel free to get in touch using the CONTACT US page here.  
Ari will also be scheduling special one-off workshops in Seattle and will keep you posted via this website, email, and FB.  To get onto Ari's email list, please sign up on the CONTACT US page.  

Workshop Schedule

(See Times, Location, and Cost above)



Sun, Dec 19, 2021 (10am to 12pm):  

   "Fantastic Cross-Step Waltz Innovations"  (for Int/Adv Dancers)  

Add such original steps as the "Seat Belt", the "Neck Strap", the "Double Dutch", the "Copa Catch", and the "Maypole" to your cross-step repertoire! Perfect for int/adv level waltzers.  It's our first full workshop after more than a year of no classes, and also the perfect way to brush up your repertoire and prepare for our Fabulous Friday & Sunday dances at Om Culture.    


Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  

No Partner needed



Sun, Jan 2, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

    "The Art of "Freestyle" West Coast Swing!" 

West Coast Swing is not only one of the smoothest, sexiest, an funnest forms of swing dance on the scene today, but is hugely popular in Seattle, across the country, and growing strong.   If you've never done WCS, this is definitely the class for you!  If you've never taken one of Ari's "free-style" WCS classes, you don't want to miss this!  

        Using Ari's very unique approach to understanding effortless partnered movement, and borrowing from "Fusion" techniques, you will not only learn a whole different approach to WCS that will have you free styling in no time at all, but more importantly, you'll come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of energy & flow in dance that can be applied to any style you do!  Not to be missed!    


Level:  All welcome - No partner needed



Sun, Jan 16, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Hot Blues for Cold Winter Nights!"   

Put the cool in your steps with these fun, higher-energy, walking blues variations.  Learn to dance to more up-tempo blues music, blending the art of effortless "energy-based" connection with floor movement and styling.  This class will also introduce elements of Tango-Blues blending -- a very beautiful free-style, smooth and relaxed dance form that combine the best spects of tango, bachata, and blues.  Amazingly simple to do, yet so much fun!   Perfect for both beginning dancers or for experienced dancers who want to focus on partnering and connection while learning a whole lot more about dancing blues outside the box.  


Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  

No Partner needed





All Welcome, No Partner needed, No pre-registration required. 

Cash or check at the door only.



December 2021 

Two-Week Tuesday Balboa Intensive

2 TUESDAY's:  (Dec 28th, Jan 4th)   four hours of class

All classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio (Must pre-register for directions)

PLEASE NOTE:  Due to snow and hazardous driving conditions, the Tues, Dec 28th class has been cancelled.  We will make Jan 4th class a one time workshop.  See you there! (Posted 12/27/21)

  • 7:00-9:00pm:  

    "Beginning Balboa Intensive" - The perfect starter kit that covers all of the Balboa essentials (and a great way to get you prepped for the January & February balboa class series!). 

  • Balboa is a delightful partnered swing dance from the 1920's & 30's, typically done to faster swing music, rags, and Charleston's.  Put a new "zip" & "pop" into your swing by adding some simple, fun, balboa steps and combos to your repertoire -- It's the perfect way to push the envelope into new swing territory and to learn to dance quietly & effortlessly to fast swing or jazz music! Perfect for beginners and for folks who have had some Balboa in the past but would like to brush up!  CLICK HERE to see an example of Pure-Bal.
  • Level: Non-Novice Beginner (some basic East Coast Swing and partner skills assumed).  Also perfect for intermediate and/or advanced dancers who would like to review the basics. No partner needed
  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants

=================================


January 2022  
Three-Week Balboa & Tango Intensives  

All classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio (Must pre-register for directions)

3 TUESDAY's:  (Jan 11th, 18th, 25th)   six hours of class

  • 7:00-9:10pm:  

    "THE ART of BAL-SWING" - When the original "pure" Balboa of the 1920's & 30's met up with Lindy, Shag, and Swing of the 1940's & 50's, a new dance form was created called "Bal-Swing" that added more complex flourishes and swing out moves to the Balboa mix.  One of the funnest dance forms there is today, Bal-Swing contains moves that can be applied to almost any dance form you do, including WCS, NC2S, Foxtrot, Waltz, and Tango.    CLICK HERE to see an example of Bal-Swing. 

     (*Don't be intimidated by the dancing.  All of those dancers started with classes like this one!).

     

    • Level: Non-Novice, some basic Balboa, East Coast Swing, & partnering skills assumed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants

3 THURSDAY's:  (Jan 13th, 20th, 27th)   six hours of class
  • 7:00-9:10pm:   "Tango'd Up in Blues" - Tango is one of the most popular dance forms being done in Seattle today.  For folks who have a little Swing, WCS, Blues, Ballroom, or Fusion under their belts, and would like to take their dance to a whole new level by incorporating some fun Tango combos into the mix, this is the perfect class for you!  Learn how to garnish and embellish your other dance styles by seamlessly adding a few beautiful Tango moves into the repertoire!  (No tango or blues experience necessary).  
    • (Level: Non-Novice; 

      some basic social dance & partnering skills assumed.  No tango experience needed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants



=================================




FEBRUARY 

Three-Week Balboa & Tango Intensives  

All classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio (Must pre-register for directions)

3 TUESDAY's:  (Feb 1st, 8th, 15th)   six hours of class 

  • 7:00-9:10pm:  

    "Bigger Better BAL-SWING VARIATONS" - For folks who are comfortable with the balboa basics, come and learn some great new bal-swing combos that will put the "wow" in your step, and elicit more than a few "oohs" or "aahs" from those watching on the edge.  While this is the perfect continuation class for those in the January "Bal-Swing" session, you do NOT have to have taken that series to join.  We will be learning a wide variety of new material for all involved. 

     

    CLICK HERE

     to see an example of Bal-Swing. 

    (*Don't be intimidated by the dancing.  All of those dancers started with classes like this one!).

     

    • Level: Non-Novice, some basic Balboa, East Coast Swing, & partnering skills assumed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants

3 THURSDAYS's:  (Feb 3rd, 10th, 17th)    six hours of class
  • 7:00-9:10pm:   "Fun with TANGO FUSION:  - For folks who have a little Swing, Blues, Latin, Fusion, or Ballroom under their belts and would like to take their dance into new territory by incorporating some fun Tango movement into the mix, this is the perfect class for you!  In the first hour, we'll start small, and in the second hour we'll work our way to big!  While this is the perfect continuation class for those in the January "Tango" session, you do NOT have to have taken that series to join.  It's the perfect way to build confidence and push the envelope into new music and dance territory, all the while gaining insight into innovative and playful ways to solo and partner!    
    • (Level: Non-Novice; 

      some basic social dance & partnering skills assumed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants



LOGISTICS


TIMES: 
  • 6:45pm:  Doors open, warm-up and stretch
  • 7:00-9:00pm:  Class  
  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practica

LOCATION:  

  • Ari's Home Studio.  You must pre-register online to get the address.  Ari's home studio is located in the Eastlake neighborhood of Seattle, just off of I-5 at the I-5 & 520 intersection
CLASS SIZE:  

Class sizes are limited to 6 leads and 6 follows, so register soon!  
Vax + Mask only (please bring proof of vaccine to the first class) 

COST: 

       2-WEEK DECEMBER SESSION (4+ hr's of instruction):

  •     Both Classes (4+ hrs of instruction @ $12.50/hr)  = $50 (SAVE $10)
  •     1st Class ONLY (2 hrs of instruction @ $15/hr) = $30 (space available only)

       3-WEEK JANUARY SESSION (6+ hr's of instruction):

  •     All Three Classes ( 6+ hrs of instruction @ $11.50/hr)  = $70 (SAVE $20)
  •     1st Class ONLY (2 hrs of instruction @ $15/hr) = $30 (space available only)
  •     1st & 2nd Class ONLY (4+ hrs of instruction @ $12.50/hr) = $50 (space available only, SAVE $10)

  • STUDENTS (under age 25):  
    • $35 per 2-wk class series  (SAVE $25)
    • $55 per 3-wk class series  (SAVE $35)
      **PLEASE NOTE:  all participants will get a video review of the steps from the classes they paid for.  


TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.  If you are signing up for the "role reversal" option, please register for the role you would like to dance in the class.

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page


Om Sunday

Workshop Schedule

All at Om Culture, 2210 N. Pacific St, Seattle.

Workshop: 10am-12pm, followed by 

Afternoon Tea Dance 12-2pm

No Pre-Registration needed.  Just show up!

CLICK HERE for details 


COST:  Workshop + Dance (10am-2pm):  $25

Dance Only (12-2pm):  $10


Sun, Jan 2, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

    "The Art of Freestyle Blues, Fusion, and West Coast Swing" 

        Using Ari's very unique approach to understanding effortless partnered movement and lead & follow roles, you will not only learn a whole different approach to dance, you'll come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of energy & flow in partnering that can be applied to any style you do!  Not to be missed!    


Sun, Jan 16, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Hot Blues for Cold Winter Nights!"   

Put the cool in your steps with these fun, higher-energy, walking blues variations. 


Sun, Jan 30, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Mambo Magic & Fun Salsa Combo's"    

Get your "Salsa" on at Om Culture! We'll start with a thorough review of the basics, then break into some fun partner combo's and stylings.  


Sun, Feb 6, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Fabulous Night Club 2-Step Innovations!"   

Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.


Sun, Jan 16, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Sensational Sliding & Gliding Waltz Creations!"   

We'll quickly review the cross step basics, then learn some simple but beautifully flowing cross step waltz variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps that all focus on flow and ease.  


COST:  Workshop + Dance:  $25

Dance Only:  $10

December 2021 
All classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio (Must pre-register for directions)
Vax & Booster + Mask required

2-hr Beginning Balboa Intensive


Tues, Jan 4th, 7:00-9:00pm: 

"Beginning Balboa Intensive" - The perfect starter kit that covers all of the Balboaessentials (and a great way to get you prepped for the January & February balboa class series!).

        Balboa is a delightful partnered swing dance from the 1920's & 30's, typically done to faster swing music, rags, and Charleston's.  Put a new "zip" & "pop" into your swing by adding some simple, fun, balboa steps and combos to your repertoire -- It's the perfect way to push the envelope into new swing territory and to learn to dance quietly & effortlessly to fast swing or jazz music! Perfect for beginners and for folks who have had some Balboa in the past but would like to brush up!  CLICK HERE to see an example of Pure-Bal.

  • Level: Non-Novice Beginner (some basic East Coast Swing and partner skills assumed).  Also perfect for intermediate and/or advanced dancers who would like to review the basics. No partner needed

  • 7:00-9:00pm:  Workshop
  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice


=================================


January 2022  
Three-Week Balboa & Tango Intensives  

All classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio (Must pre-register for directions)

Vax & Booster + Mask required


3 TUESDAY's:  (Jan 11th, 18th, 25th)   six hours of class

  • 7:00-9:10pm:  

    "THE ART of BAL-SWING" - When the original "pure" Balboa of the 1920's & 30's met up with Lindy, Shag, and Swing of the 1940's & 50's, a new dance form was created called "Bal-Swing" that added more complex flourishes and swing out moves to the Balboa mix.  One of the funnest dance forms there is today, Bal-Swing contains moves that can be applied to almost any dance form you do, including WCS, NC2S, Foxtrot, Waltz, and Tango.    CLICK HERE to see an example of Bal-Swing. 

     (*Don't be intimidated by the dancing.  All of those dancers started with classes like this one!).

     

    • Level: Non-Novice, some basic Balboa, East Coast Swing, & partnering skills assumed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants

3 THURSDAY's:  (Jan 13th, 20th, 27th)   six hours of class
  • 7:00-9:10pm:   "Tango'd Up in Blues" - Tango is one of the most popular dance forms being done in Seattle today.  For folks who have a little Swing, WCS, Blues, Ballroom, or Fusion under their belts, and would like to take their dance to a whole new level by incorporating some fun Tango combos into the mix, this is the perfect class for you!  Learn how to garnish and embellish your other dance styles by seamlessly adding a few beautiful Tango moves into the repertoire!  (No tango or blues experience necessary).  
    • (Level: Non-Novice; 

      some basic social dance & partnering skills assumed.  No tango experience needed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants



=================================




FEBRUARY 

Three-Week Balboa & Tango Intensives  

All classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio (Must pre-register for directions)

Vax & Booster + Mask required


3 TUESDAY's:  (Feb 1st, 8th, 15th)   six hours of class 

  • 7:00-9:10pm:  

    "Bigger Better BAL-SWING VARIATONS" - For folks who are comfortable with the balboa basics, come and learn some great new bal-swing combos that will put the "wow" in your step, and elicit more than a few "oohs" or "aahs" from those watching on the edge.  While this is the perfect continuation class for those in the January "Bal-Swing" session, you do NOT have to have taken that series to join.  We will be learning a wide variety of new material for all involved. 

     

    CLICK HERE

     to see an example of Bal-Swing. 

    (*Don't be intimidated by the dancing.  All of those dancers started with classes like this one!).

     

    • Level: Non-Novice, some basic Balboa, East Coast Swing, & partnering skills assumed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants

3 THURSDAYS's:  (Feb 3rd, 10th, 17th)    six hours of class
  • 7:00-9:10pm:   "Fun with TANGO FUSION:  - For folks who have a little Swing, Blues, Latin, Fusion, or Ballroom under their belts and would like to take their dance into new territory by incorporating some fun Tango movement into the mix, this is the perfect class for you!  In the first hour, we'll start small, and in the second hour we'll work our way to big!  While this is the perfect continuation class for those in the January "Tango" session, you do NOT have to have taken that series to join.  It's the perfect way to build confidence and push the envelope into new music and dance territory, all the while gaining insight into innovative and playful ways to solo and partner!    
    • (Level: Non-Novice; 

      some basic social dance & partnering skills assumed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants



LOGISTICS


TIMES: 
  • 6:45pm:  Doors open, warm-up and stretch
  • 7:00-9:00pm:  Class  
  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practica

LOCATION:  

  • Ari's Home Studio.  You must pre-register online to get the address.  Ari's home studio is located in the Eastlake neighborhood of Seattle, just off of I-5 at the I-5 & 520 intersection
CLASS SIZE:  

Class sizes are limited to 6 leads and 6 follows, so register soon!  
Vax + Mask only (please bring proof of vaccine to the first class) 

COST: 

       2-WEEK DECEMBER SESSION (4+ hr's of instruction):

  •     Dec 28th class cancelled due to snow.
  •     Jan 24th date ONLY (2.5 hrs of instruction) = $25 

       3-WEEK JANUARY SESSION (6+ hr's of instruction):

  •     All Three Classes ( 6+ hrs of instruction @ $11.50/hr)  = $70 (SAVE $20)
  •     1st Class ONLY (2 hrs of instruction @ $15/hr) = $30 (space available only)
  •     1st & 2nd Class ONLY (4+ hrs of instruction @ $12.50/hr) = $50 (space available only, SAVE $10)

  • STUDENTS (under age 25):  
    • $35 per 2-wk class series  (SAVE $25)
    • $55 per 3-wk class series  (SAVE $35)
      **PLEASE NOTE:  all participants will get a video review of the steps from the classes they paid for.  


TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.  If you are signing up for the "role reversal" option, please register for the role you would like to dance in the class.

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page


Workshop Schedule

(See Times, Location, and Cost above)



Sun, Dec 19, 2021 (10am to 12pm):  

   "Fantastic Cross-Step Waltz Innovations"  (for Int/Adv Dancers)  

Add such original steps as the "Seat Belt", the "Neck Strap", the "Double Dutch", the "Copa Catch", and the "Maypole" to your cross-step repertoire! Perfect for int/adv level waltzers.  It's our first full workshop after more than a year of no classes, and also the perfect way to brush up your repertoire and prepare for our Fabulous Friday & Sunday dances at Om Culture.    


Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  

No Partner needed



Sun, Jan 2, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

    "The Art of Freestyle Blues, Fusion, and West Coast Swing" 

Blues, Fusion, & WCS are not only some of the most diverse and funnest forms of dance on the scene today, but they are hugely popular in Seattle, across the country, and growing strong.   If you've never done these dance styles, this is definitely the class for you!  If you've never taken one of Ari's "free-style" concept classes, you don't want to miss this!  

        Using Ari's very unique approach to understanding effortless partnered movement and lead & follow roles, you will not only learn a whole different approach to dance, you'll come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of energy & flow in partnering that can be applied to any style you do!  Not to be missed!    


Level:  All welcome - No partner needed



Sun, Jan 16, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Hot Blues for Cold Winter Nights!"   

Put the cool in your steps with these fun, higher-energy, walking blues variations.  Learn to dance to more up-tempo blues music, blending the art of effortless "energy-based" connection with floor movement and styling.  This class will also introduce elements of Tango-Blues blending -- a very beautiful free-style, smooth and relaxed dance form that combine the best spects of tango, bachata, and blues.  Amazingly simple to do, yet so much fun!   Perfect for both beginning dancers or for experienced dancers who want to focus on partnering and connection while learning a whole lot more about dancing blues outside the box.  


Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic partner dance skills assumed)  

No Partner needed



Sun, Jan 30, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Mambo Magic & Fun Salsa Combo's"    

Get your "Salsa" on this Sunday at Om Culture! We'll start with a thorough review of the basics, then break into some fun partner combo's and stylings.  Perfect for both beginning dancers, or for more experienced dancers who want to focus on effortless flow and connection in their partnership. 


Level: Beg/Int.  All welcome - No partner needed



Sun, Feb 6, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Fabulous Night Club 2-Step Innovations!"   

Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 30 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for non-novice beg/int level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. 


Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed


Sun, Feb 20, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Sensational Sliding & Gliding Waltz Creations!"   

"Cross Step Waltz" is one of the most common social-partnered waltz styles done in the Seattle community. We'll quickly review the cross step basics, then learn some simple but beautifully flowing cross step waltz variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps that all focus on flow and ease.  Perfect for both beginning dancers, or for intermediate level dancers who want to add some graceful new moves to their repertoire.   


Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  



All Welcome, No Partner needed, No pre-registration required. 

Cash or check at the door only.




January 2022  
Three-Week Balboa & Tango Intensives  

All classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio (Must pre-register for directions)

Vax & Booster + Mask required


3 TUESDAY's:  (Jan 11th, 18th, 25th)   six hours of class

  • 7:00-9:10pm:  

    "THE ART of BAL-SWING" - When the original "pure" Balboa of the 1920's & 30's met up with Lindy, Shag, and Swing of the 1940's & 50's, a new dance form was created called "Bal-Swing" that added more complex flourishes and swing out moves to the Balboa mix.  One of the funnest dance forms there is today, Bal-Swing contains moves that can be applied to almost any dance form you do, including WCS, NC2S, Foxtrot, Waltz, and Tango.    CLICK HERE to see an example of Bal-Swing. 

     (*Don't be intimidated by the dancing.  All of those dancers started with classes like this one!).

     

    • Level: Non-Novice, some basic Balboa, East Coast Swing, & partnering skills assumed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants

3 THURSDAY's:  (Jan 13th, 20th, 27th)   six hours of class
  • 7:00-9:10pm:   "Tango'd Up in Blues" - Tango is one of the most popular dance forms being done in Seattle today.  For folks who have a little Swing, WCS, Blues, Ballroom, or Fusion under their belts, and would like to take their dance to a whole new level by incorporating some fun Tango combos into the mix, this is the perfect class for you!  Learn how to garnish and embellish your other dance styles by seamlessly adding a few beautiful Tango moves into the repertoire!  (No tango or blues experience necessary).  
    • (Level: Non-Novice; 

      some basic social dance & partnering skills assumed.  No tango experience needed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants



=================================




FEBRUARY 

Three-Week Balboa & Tango Intensives  

All classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio (Must pre-register for directions)

Vax & Booster + Mask required


3 TUESDAY's:  (Feb 1st, 8th, 15th)   six hours of class 

  • 7:00-9:10pm:  

    "Bigger Better BAL-SWING VARIATONS" - For folks who are comfortable with the balboa basics, come and learn some great new bal-swing combos that will put the "wow" in your step, and elicit more than a few "oohs" or "aahs" from those watching on the edge.  While this is the perfect continuation class for those in the January "Bal-Swing" session, you do NOT have to have taken that series to join.  We will be learning a wide variety of new material for all involved. 

     

    CLICK HERE

     to see an example of Bal-Swing. 

    (*Don't be intimidated by the dancing.  All of those dancers started with classes like this one!).

     

    • Level: Non-Novice, some basic Balboa, East Coast Swing, & partnering skills assumed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants

3 THURSDAYS's:  (Feb 3rd, 10th, 17th)    six hours of class
  • 7:00-9:10pm:   "Fun with TANGO FUSION:  - For folks who have a little Swing, Blues, Latin, Fusion, or Ballroom under their belts and would like to take their dance into new territory by incorporating some fun Tango movement into the mix, this is the perfect class for you!  In the first hour, we'll start small, and in the second hour we'll work our way to big!  While this is the perfect continuation class for those in the January "Tango" session, you do NOT have to have taken that series to join.  It's the perfect way to build confidence and push the envelope into new music and dance territory, all the while gaining insight into innovative and playful ways to solo and partner!    
    • (Level: Non-Novice; 

      some basic social dance & partnering skills assumed.  No partner needed)


  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants



LOGISTICS


TIMES: 
  • 6:45pm:  Doors open, warm-up and stretch
  • 7:00-9:00pm:  Class  
  • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practica

LOCATION:  

  • Ari's Home Studio.  You must pre-register online to get the address.  Ari's home studio is located in the Eastlake neighborhood of Seattle, just off of I-5 at the I-5 & 520 intersection
CLASS SIZE:  

Class sizes are limited to 6 leads and 6 follows, so register soon!  
Vax + Mask only (please bring proof of vaccine to the first class) 

COST: 

       2-WEEK DECEMBER SESSION (4+ hr's of instruction):

  •     Dec 28th class cancelled due to snow.
  •     Jan 24th date ONLY (2.5 hrs of instruction) = $25 

       3-WEEK JANUARY SESSION (6+ hr's of instruction):

  •     All Three Classes ( 6+ hrs of instruction @ $11.50/hr)  = $70 (SAVE $20)
  •     1st Class ONLY (2 hrs of instruction @ $15/hr) = $30 (space available only)
  •     1st & 2nd Class ONLY (4+ hrs of instruction @ $12.50/hr) = $50 (space available only, SAVE $10)

  • STUDENTS (under age 25):  
    • $35 per 2-wk class series  (SAVE $25)
    • $55 per 3-wk class series  (SAVE $35)
      **PLEASE NOTE:  all participants will get a video review of the steps from the classes they paid for.  


TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.  If you are signing up for the "role reversal" option, please register for the role you would like to dance in the class.

Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

Class size is limited, so register early!  

 CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page


FRONT PAGE (HOME PAGE):

Om Sunday

Workshop Schedule

All at Om Culture, 2210 N. Pacific St, Seattle.

Workshop: 10am-12pm, followed by 

Afternoon Tea Dance 12-2pm

No Pre-Registration needed.  Just show up!

CLICK HERE for details 


COST:  Workshop + Dance (10am-2pm):  $25

Dance Only (12-2pm):  $10


Sun, Jan 2, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

    "The Art of Freestyle Blues, Fusion, and West Coast Swing" 

        Using Ari's very unique approach to understanding effortless partnered movement and lead & follow roles, you will not only learn a whole different approach to dance, you'll come away with a much deeper understanding of the fundamental language of energy & flow in partnering that can be applied to any style you do!  Not to be missed!    


Sun, Jan 16, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Hot Blues for Cold Winter Nights!"   

Put the cool in your steps with these fun, higher-energy, walking blues variations. 


Sun, Jan 30, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Mambo Magic & Fun Salsa Combo's"    

Get your "Salsa" on at Om Culture! We'll start with a thorough review of the basics, then break into some fun partner combo's and stylings.  


Sun, Feb 6, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Fabulous Night Club 2-Step Innovations!"   

Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.


Sun, Jan 16, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

   "Sensational Sliding & Gliding Waltz Creations!"   

We'll quickly review the cross step basics, then learn some simple but beautifully flowing cross step waltz variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps that all focus on flow and ease.  


COST:  Workshop + Dance:  $25

Dance Only:  $10

Winter 1 Class Series
Sundays (1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, no 2/13, 2/20)
with Ari Levitt & Meli Varga

3pm • Beginning Cross-Step Waltz 

Waltz, with its characteristic glides and twirls, has been called the “world’s most romantic dance.” Waltz, danced in 3/4 time, is a must for every dancer’s repertoire, and of the four standard waltz music styles, “cross-step” is by far the most versatile, the most fun, and the most commonly played in Seattle! We’ll work on the basics of leading and following while building a vocabulary of fabulous moves. You’ll fall in love with Cross-Step Waltz!

Prerequisites: none; perfect to take in conjunction with the Foxtrot and Blues classes

4pm • Foxtrot 1

Learn a variety of fun and innovative Foxtrot combinations from Ari’s library of moves and inventions—beautiful, flowing, and elegant moves, as always. Foxtrot is the classic partnered travel dance, popularized from the 1930s to 1950s, and it boasts some of the best music of that era. Foxtrot has continued to thrive on the ballroom dance floor to this day, and has become a versatile dance that we easily blend with popular tunes and other styles, such as Swing, Waltz, Rhumba, and Blues. Best of all—it’s fun to do! Expect some GREAT music as well! 

Prerequisites: perfect for both beginning dancers or for more experienced dancers who want to work on fine-tuning their partnering, connection, and musicality skills; ideal to take in conjunction with the Waltz and Blues classes

5pm • Learn to Dance the Blues

Learn the basics of his very expressive and fluid musical dance form that will become the foundation to every other dance style you will learn. 

Prerequisites: perfect for both beginning dancers or for more experienced dancers who want to work on fine-tuning their partnering, connection, and musicality skills; ideal to take in conjunction with the Waltz and Foxtrot classes!


=============  LOGISTICS ============

  • Registration & INFO:  https://www.nwdance.net/current-classes/
  • Payment: $80 payable by card for pre-registration or cash or check at the door
  • Location: Swedish Club, 1920 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Parking: there is upper and lower level parking available which is adjacent to the Swedish Club and additional parking is available across the street.
  • COVID Requirements: mask & proof of vaccination required

    • Winter 1 Class Series
    Sundays (1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, no 2/13, 2/20)
    with Ari Levitt & Meli Varga

    3pm • Beginning Cross-Step Waltz 

    Waltz, with its characteristic glides and twirls, has been called the “world’s most romantic dance.” Waltz, danced in 3/4 time, is a must for every dancer’s repertoire, and of the four standard waltz music styles, “cross-step” is by far the most versatile, the most fun, and the most commonly played in Seattle! We’ll work on the basics of leading and following while building a vocabulary of fabulous moves. You’ll fall in love with Cross-Step Waltz!

    Prerequisites: none; perfect to take in conjunction with the Foxtrot and Blues classes

    4pm • Foxtrot 1

    Learn a variety of fun and innovative Foxtrot combinations from Ari’s library of moves and inventions—beautiful, flowing, and elegant moves, as always. Foxtrot is the classic partnered travel dance, popularized from the 1930s to 1950s, and it boasts some of the best music of that era. Foxtrot has continued to thrive on the ballroom dance floor to this day, and has become a versatile dance that we easily blend with popular tunes and other styles, such as Swing, Waltz, Rhumba, and Blues. Best of all—it’s fun to do! Expect some GREAT music as well! 

    Prerequisites: perfect for both beginning dancers or for more experienced dancers who want to work on fine-tuning their partnering, connection, and musicality skills; ideal to take in conjunction with the Waltz and Blues classes

    5pm • Learn to Dance the Blues

    Learn the basics of his very expressive and fluid musical dance form that will become the foundation to every other dance style you will learn. 

    Prerequisites: perfect for both beginning dancers or for more experienced dancers who want to work on fine-tuning their partnering, connection, and musicality skills; ideal to take in conjunction with the Waltz and Foxtrot classes!


    =============  LOGISTICS ============


  • Registration & INFO:  https://www.nwdance.net/current-classes/
  • Payment: $80 payable by card for pre-registration or cash or check at the door
  • Location: Swedish Club, 1920 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Parking: there is upper and lower level parking available which is adjacent to the Swedish Club and additional parking is available across the street.
  • COVID Requirements: mask & proof of vaccination required


    • =============  WORKSHOP ============


    March 6th WORKSHOP with NWDN 6-8pm

    Intro to Night Club 2-Step "Fusion"


    Fusion, the latest genre of partner dance to sweep the nation, has its own music & dance form that blends what you know from partner dancing with a more creative, conversational, improvisation style.  Come learn how to apply the steps and skills you know from NC2S with this beautiful playful dance style.  The skills you'll learn here are ones that you can also apply to virtually every dance style you know.  Not to be missed!  


    CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari & Alyssa doing Fusion NC2S.

    CLICK HERE to see a second example of Ari & Alyssa doing Fusion NC2S. 


    Prerequisites: NC2S 1or equivalent experience and a solid NC2S basic


    FEBRUARY     

    Blues-Tango Fusion Intensives  

    All classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio (Must pre-register for directions)
    Vax/Booster + Mask required


    3 THURSDAYS's:  (Feb 24th, March 3rd & 10th,)  six hours of class

    • 7:00-9:10pm:   "Fun with BLUES-TANGO FUSION:  - For folks who have a little Swing, Blues, Latin, Fusion, or Ballroom under their belts and would like to take their dance into new territory by incorporating some fun Tango movement into the mix, this is the perfect class for you!  In the first hour, we'll start small, and in the second hour we'll work our way to big!  While this is the perfect continuation class for those in the January "Tango" session, you do NOT have to have taken that series to join.  It's the perfect way to build confidence and push the envelope into new music and dance territory, all the while gaining insight into innovative and playful ways to solo and partner!   

    • Level: Non-Novice; some basic social dance & partnering skills assumed.  No partner needed

    • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants



    LOGISTICS


    TIMES: 
    • 6:45pm:  Doors open, warm-up and stretch
    • 7:00-9:00pm:  Class  
    • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practica

    LOCATION:  

    • Ari's Home Studio.  You must pre-register online to get the address.  Ari's home studio is located in the Eastlake neighborhood of Seattle, just off of I-5 at the I-5 & 520 intersection

    CLASS SIZE:      

    Class sizes are limited to 6 leads and 6 follows, so register soon!  
    Vax + Mask only (please bring proof of vaccine to the first class) 

    COST: 

           3-WEEK SESSION (6+ hr's of instruction):

    •     All Three Classes ( 6+ hrs of instruction @ $12.50/hr)  = $75 (SAVE $15)
    •     1st Class ONLY (2 hrs of instruction @ $15/hr) = $30 (space available only)
    •     1st & 2nd Class ONLY (4+ hrs of instruction @ $12.50/hr) = $50 (space available only, SAVE $10)

    • STUDENTS (under age 25):  
      • $35 per 2-wk class series  (SAVE $25)
      • $55 per 3-wk class series  (SAVE $35)
          **PLEASE NOTE:  all participants will get a video review of the steps from the classes they paid for.  


    TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.  If you are signing up for the "role reversal" option, please register for the role you would like to dance in the class.

    Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

    Class size is limited, so register early!  

     CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page


    Winter 2 Class Series
    Sundays (2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/27, 4/3, no 3/20)
    with Ari Levitt & Meli Varga


    3:00pm:   Int/Adv Waltz: Cross-Step Creativity 

     

    Cross-step waltz is one of the most common social-partnered waltz styles done in the country today.  After quickly reviewing the cross-step basics, we’ll jump into learning some beautifully flowing variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps & combinations.  Perfect for intermediate and advanced level dancers who want to add some graceful new moves to their repertoire. 


    Prerequisites: This is an intermediate/advanced level class series. Comfort with basic turning steps and partnering assumed.  

    CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's Cross-Step Waltz. 

    4:00pm:   Int/Adv Night Club 2-Step Innovations 

     

    Learn a variety of fun, innovative moves and inventions from Ari's repertoire of NC2S; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 30 years ago and is well-known as one of the country's leading innovators and teachers of this style. Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers. 


    Prerequisites: This is an intermediate/advanced level class series. Comfort with basic left and right turning steps and partnering assumed.

     CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. 

    5:00pm:   “Swingin’ the Blues!" — Taking your Blues & Swing to the Next Level!

    Learn how blues-dancing is foundational to both the East Coast & West Coast Swing in this fun, "thinking outside the box" class that will not only introduce you to higher-energy blues dancing and to a whole variety of fun new swing steps, but will greatly improve your connection, partnering, and improvisation in any dance you do!  It's a fabulous new approach to West Coast & East Coast Swing that you won't want to miss!    


    Prerequisites: This is an intermediate/advanced class series. No blues experience needed; some comfort with basic ECS and/or WCS helpful.



    =============  LOGISTICS ============


  • Registration & INFO:  CLICK HERE   
  • Payment: $80 payable by card for pre-registration or cash or check at the door
  • Location: Swedish Club, 1920 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Parking: there is upper and lower level parking available which is adjacent to the Swedish Club and additional parking is available across the street.
  • COVID Requirements: mask & proof of vaccination required


    • =============  WORKSHOPS ============


    1)  Feb 27th WORKSHOP with NWDN 6-8pm

    Intro to Night Club 2-Step "Fusion"


    Fusion, the latest genre of partner dance to sweep the nation, has its own music & dance form that blends what you know from partner dancing with a more creative, conversational, improvisation style.  Come learn how to apply the steps and skills you know from NC2S with this beautiful playful dance style.  The skills you'll learn here are ones that you can also apply to virtually every dance style you know.  Not to be missed!  


    CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari & Alyssa doing Fusion NC2S.

    CLICK HERE to see a second example of Ari & Alyssa doing Fusion NC2S. 


    Prerequisite: Any previous social dancing




    2)  Mar 13 WORKSHOP with NWDN 6-8pm

    Lovin’ the Laminu—A fabulous Hybrid of Slow Foxtrot and Fast Swing 

    Transport yourself back to the wonderful Big Band era of the 1930s—1940s by learning the “Laminu,” a popular dance of the time that offers you a fun way to make the slow dances much more interesting, and the fast dances much more relaxing. Today, the dance is celebrating a new resurgence in popularity—especially in Europe, where it’s being re-introduced to Swing, Lindy, Balboa, and Blues communities everywhere.  

          Prerequisites: Comfort with basic Foxtrot and/or East Coast Swing helpful

    Click Here for a little taste of the Laminu experience


    Workshop Schedule

    (See Times, Location, and Cost above)



    Sun, Jan 30, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

       "Mambo Magic & Fun Salsa Combo's"    

    Get your "Salsa" on this Sunday at Om Culture! We'll start with a thorough review of the basics, then break into some fun partner combo's and stylings.  Perfect for both beginning dancers, or for more experienced dancers who want to focus on effortless flow and connection in their partnership. 


    Level: Beg/Int.  All welcome - No partner needed



    Sun, Feb 6, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

       "Fabulous Night Club 2-Step Innovations!"   

    Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 30 years ago, is known as one of the country's leading innovators in this style, and actively teaches this dance around the world.  Perfect for non-novice beg/int level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of NC2S. 


    Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic NC2S Left & Right Turn steps and partnering skills assumed


    Sun, Feb 20, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

       "Sensational Sliding & Gliding Waltz Creations!"   

    "Cross Step Waltz" is one of the most common social-partnered waltz styles done in the Seattle community. We'll quickly review the cross step basics, then learn some simple but beautifully flowing cross step waltz variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps that all focus on flow and ease.  Perfect for both beginning dancers, or for intermediate level dancers who want to add some graceful new moves to their repertoire.   


    Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int, or Adv (Some basic waltz and partnering skills assumed)  



    All Welcome, No Partner needed, No pre-registration required. 

    Cash or check at the door only.




    February 2022  
    Three-Week Balboa & Tango Intensives  

    3 TUESDAY's:  (Feb 1st, 8th, 15th)   six hours of class

    • 7:00-9:10pm:  

      "The Art of Bal-Swing" - One of the funnest dance forms there is today, Bal-Swing contains moves that can be applied to almost any dance form you do, including WCS, NC2S, Foxtrot, Waltz, and Tango. 

    • 9:10-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants
    • CLICK HERE for details

    3 THURSDAY's:  (Feb 3rd, 10th, 17th) six hours of class
    • 7:00-9:10pm:   "Fun with Tango Fusion!" - Learn how to garnish and embellish your other dance styles by seamlessly adding a few beautiful Tango moves into the repertoire!  (No tango experience necessary).  
    • 9:10-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants
    • CLICK HERE for details

    New WINTER Classes with Ari & Meli 

    @ The Swedish Club 

    Through NW Dance Network


            3pm • Beginning Cross-Step Waltz 

            4pm • Intro to Foxtrot

            5pm • Learn to Dance the Blues


    Level: Beginning on up!

      All welcome - No partner needed

    Vax + Booster & Mask  Required


    Details & Registration at: 

    www.nwdance.net 

    Winter 2 Class Series
    Sundays (2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/27, 4/3, no 3/20)
    with Ari Levitt & Meli Varga


    3:00pm:   Int/Adv Waltz: Cross-Step Creativity 

     

    Cross-step waltz is one of the most common social-partnered waltz styles done in the country today.  After quickly reviewing the cross-step basics, we’ll jump into learning some beautifully flowing variations from Ari's repertoire of innovative steps & combinations.  Perfect for intermediate and advanced level dancers who want to add some graceful new moves to their repertoire. 


    Prerequisites: This is an intermediate/advanced level class series. Comfort with basic turning steps and partnering assumed.  

    CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's Cross-Step Waltz. 

    4:00pm:   Int/Adv Night Club 2-Step Innovations 

     

    Learn a variety of fun, innovative moves and inventions from Ari's repertoire of NC2S; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always.  Ari first introduced NC2S to Seattle over 30 years ago and is well-known as one of the country's leading innovators and teachers of this style. Perfect for int/adv level NC2S-ers. 


    Prerequisites: This is an intermediate/advanced level class series. Comfort with basic left and right turning steps and partnering assumed.

     CLICK HERE to see an example of Ari's NC2S. 

    5:00pm:   “Swingin’ the Blues!" — Taking your Blues & Swing to the Next Level!

    Learn how blues-dancing is foundational to both the East Coast & West Coast Swing in this fun, "thinking outside the box" class that will not only introduce you to higher-energy blues dancing and to a whole variety of fun new swing steps, but will greatly improve your connection, partnering, and improvisation in any dance you do!  It's a fabulous new approach to West Coast & East Coast Swing that you won't want to miss!    


    Prerequisites: This is an intermediate/advanced class series. No blues experience needed; some comfort with basic ECS and/or WCS helpful.



    =============  LOGISTICS ============


  • Registration & INFO:  CLICK HERE   
  • Payment: $80 payable by card for pre-registration or cash or check at the door
  • Location: Swedish Club, 1920 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Parking: there is upper and lower level parking available which is adjacent to the Swedish Club and additional parking is available across the street.
  • COVID Requirements: mask & proof of vaccination required


    • =============  WORKSHOPS ============


    1)  Mar 13 WORKSHOP with NWDN 6-8pm

    Lovin’ the Laminu—A fabulous Hybrid of Slow Foxtrot and Fast Swing 

    Transport yourself back to the wonderful Big Band era of the 1930s—1940s by learning the “Laminu,” a popular dance of the time that offers you a fun way to make the slow dances much more interesting, and the fast dances much more relaxing. Today, the dance is celebrating a new resurgence in popularity—especially in Europe, where it’s being re-introduced to Swing, Lindy, Balboa, and Blues communities everywhere.  

          Prerequisites: Comfort with basic Foxtrot and/or East Coast Swing helpful

    Click Here  or see below for a little taste of the Laminu experience


    New WINTER Classes

    @ The Swedish Club 

    with NW Dance Network

    Join Ari this SUNDAY, Mar 13 
    for a WORKSHOP with NWDN 6-8pm

    "Lovin’ the Laminu"

    A fabulous Hybrid of Slow Foxtrot and Fast Swing 

    Transport yourself back to the wonderful Big Band era of the 1930s—1940s by learning the “Laminu,” a popular dance of the time that offers you a fun way to make the slow dances much more interesting, and the fast dances much more relaxing. Today, the dance is celebrating a new resurgence in popularity—especially in Europe, where it’s being re-introduced to Swing, Lindy, Balboa, and Blues communities everywhere.  

          Prerequisites: Comfort with basic Foxtrot and/or East Coast Swing helpful

    Click Here  or see below for a little taste of the Laminu experience

  • Registration & INFO:   CLICK HERE 
  • Payment: $25 pre-registered, $35 at the door
  • Location: Swedish Club, 1920 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Parking: there is upper and lower level parking available which is adjacent to the Swedish Club and additional parking is available across the street.
  • COVID Requirements: mask & proof of vaccination required

    • PLEASE NOTE: 

    In order to maintain lead/follow equilibrium, currently ALL SINGLE FOLLOWS WILL BE PLACED ON A TEMPORARY WAITING LIST.  For those follows, please all Malori at (412) 571-0220, or (800) 731-0493 (toll-free) to reserve your spot none-the-less.  When a space opens up, you will have that next spot in line!

    All SINGLE LEADS and LEAD/FOLLOW COUPLES will continue to be admitted without delay.  Our sincerest apologies for any inconvenience this might cause to our solo follow applicants.  Please encourage more leads to sign up!.

    Come on, leads!  We have follows waiting for you to get them in! 

    Overview:

    DATES:  Aug 28 - Sept 4, 2016 (Sun to Sun), departing at 4:00pm, returning at 7:00am from Seattle

    ITINERARY:   Ports of call include Seattle, Ketchikan, Tracy Arm Fjord (Glacier Cruising),  Juneau, Skagway, Victoria BC, and two days at sea.

    DANCE CLASSES & GROUP ACTIVITIES:  Group classes on the ship will include a mix of morning and/or afternoon sessions in a variety of dance styles (swing, social, ballroom, Latin, blues, fusion, WCS, tango, etc), with a strong focus on both partnering & connection, as well as introducing fun new step patterns and stylings.  Other group activities may include afternoon & evening dances; a cocktail social hour, games night, special dance outings in ports; as well as many other fun "non-dancing" activities onboard the ship and on dry land.  We also have two very special on-shore dance events planned with the local communities in Juneau and in Victoria (unique to our group!)

    THE RUBY PRINCESS:  Sailing some of the most popular cruise vacation destinations in the world, this amenity-filled ship is a crowning jewel of the Princess fleet.  Our trip will be her last Alaskan run before repositioning to the Caribbean, so be sure to get your tickets early as it promises to be quite popular and will undoubtedly sell out soon!  Incidentally, if you want to buy anything in Alaska, this is the week to go because everything will be on sale for the end of the season!

    PRE-CRUISE 1 or 2 NIGHT PACKAGE IN SEATTLE:  If you are coming from out of town and would like to take a day or two before the cruise to explore Seattle (and join in our Friday or Saturday night social dances), check out the pre-cruise package options at: http://amazingjourneys.net/trip/dance-pre-cruise  

    CRUISE PACKAGES & COSTS:  There are several cruise packages available for interior, balcony, or suite cabins.  Rooms at our guaranteed group prices are available through April 29th.  After these sell out, prices will be subject to change by Princess Cruises.  For full details, registration, & pricing information, CLICK HERE (or go to http://amazingjourneys.net/trip/dance-cruise), or call  Malori (with Amazing Journeys) at 412 571-0220

    TO REGISTER:  CLICK HERE (or go to http://amazingjourneys.net/trip/dance-cruise)

    WHO TO CONTACT FOR FURTHER QUESTIONS:  

    • For questions about cruise pricing, registration, booking your cruise ticket, or any other travel plans, contact Malori (with Amazing Journeys) at 412 571-0220.    
    • For dance-related questions, please feel free to contact Ari at arilevitt@hotmail.com

     

    INTERNATIONAL  EVENTS!

    Join us for our 5th Annual:

    Mexico Dance Retreat!

    Sun-Sun, Nov 14-21, 2021

    in beautiful Chacala, Mexico

    "Mexico Dance-Adventure" is specifically designed for dancers who not only want to experience the tropical beauty & splendor of Mexico's Pacific Nayarit coastline, but who would also love to do so in the company of a fun group of like-minded fellow dancers & travel-adventurers!

    Registration is now open!  CLICK HERE for details and registration!  

    =====================

    *THE FOLLOWING EVENTS HAVE BEEN POSTPONED.  

    We will let you know the rescheduled dates once we know more ourselves....

    Join us in beautiful BC:

    [New Dates TBA]

     "Harrison Hot Springs 

       Dance & Spa Retreat" 

    Details & Registration at TheDanceSpa.com 

    Join Ari & company in beautiful British Columbia for our 7th annual dance & workshop retreat in this historic lakeside setting -- with live music & dancing, hot springs, and special guest instructor Sharon Sebo from Kelowna, B.C.   Special EARLY BIRD PRICING is available through Feb 17th!   

    Registration is now open!  CLICK HERE for details and registration! 

    =====================

    Join us in Seattle:

    [New Dates TBA]

     "Waltz Fest NW" 

    Join dancers from Seattle, Portland, Vancouver (B.C.), and from across the country for our 4th annual "Waltz Fest NW!"-- celebrating our love of the waltz, the waltz community, and the diversity of the NW dance organizers, teachers, and venues that promote and support social waltzing within their dance line up.  Details from 2019 at www.waltzfestnw.com (2020 details still pending) (Special EARLY BIRD PRICING will be available for first dozen leads and follows to register) 

    Please join us for a very special
    Ari & Jodi's
    Blendtastic Dance
    Weekend
    April 8-10, 2022 (Fri-Sun)

     Friday, April 8th 

    •  7:00-8:00pm:  Fun with the Foxtrot You Got!   
    • 8:00-11:00+pm: "Fabulous Friday" Mixed Dance & Late Night Lyric Session    

     Saturday, April 9th 

    • 1:00-3:00pm: Foxy Night-Club 2-Step (A mix of NC2S & Foxtrot) 
    • 3:15-5:15pm:  Night Club 2-Step, with a Little Latin Flare

    -----  SATURDAY NIGHT DANCE  -----  

    • 7:00-8:00pm: Lesson: "Sassy Swing Moves to Honk Your Tonk!"
    • 8:00-11:00pm: Saturday Night Dance: "Honky Tonk Ball Blanc" & Battle of the DJ's.   Wear something white!


     Sunday, April 10th 

    • 10:00am-12:00pm:   Waltz-Swing Badda-Bing!    

    Early Bird Pricing Good Through April 4th, 2022
    CLICK HERE for Full Details & Pre-registration


    (Below) Ari & Jodi demo NC2S-Blending during their last Seattle Workshop

    Workshop Schedule

    (See Times, Location, and Cost above)


    Sun, March 20, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

       "Turning Foxtrot" with Zacharia & Jodi   

    Turning Foxtrot: In this workshop, you'll learn how to apply left and right waltz turns, using QQS footwork, to the foxtrot, which makes it blend effortlessly with East Coast Swing and Lindy.  Perfect for both beginning dancers, or for intermediate level dancers who want to blend two dances together.   


    Level: Beg, Int, or Adv.   All welcome - No partner needed



    Sun, April 3, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

       "Romantic Rumba -- Fun with Steps and Musicality!"    

    Get your "Rhumba" on this Sunday at Om Culture! We'll start with a thorough review of the basics, then break into some fun partner combo's and stylings, then explore how rumba can be blended with other dances like WCS, Foxtrot, and Tango.  Perfect for both beginning dancers, or for more experienced dancers who want to focus on effortless flow and connection in their partnership. 


    Level: Beg, Int, or Adv.  All welcome - No partner needed


    Sun, April 10, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

       Special "Waltz Blending" Workshop with Ari & Jodi    

    This is a special 2nd Sunday workshop as part of the Ari & Jodi Workshop Weekend.  Learn how to blend moves from other dance styles into Waltz, with a special focus on Waltz Swing! (The swing moves we will be using will be taught in the Friday night pre-dance lesson (7-8pm, April 9th) at Om Culture 


    Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic waltz steps and partnering skills assumed



    Sun, April 17, 2022:  No Workshop or Dance


    Sun, May 1, 2022: No Workshop or Dance


    Sun, May 15, 2022 (Part of Ari & Jodi's Dance Workshop Weekend!):


       10am-12pm: "Fabulous Cross-Step Waltz Innovations!"   

    Learn a variety of fun, innovative combinations from Ari's library of moves and inventions; beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always. 


       12:15-2:15pm: "Fabulous Blues-Waltz Innovations!"   

    Learn the art of "blues" waltz with Ari & Jodi! 


         Level: Non-Novice Beg, Int/Adv:  Basic waltz steps and partnering skills assumed



    Sun, May 29, 2022: No Workshop or Dance due to Folklife




    SCHEDULE: 

     

      *PRE-TRIP MUNICH ADD-ON* (Aug 24-26):  

    ---OPTIONAL---

     

    Wed, Aug 24:  Arrive in Munich, check into your hotel, meet together  for dinner and dancing at one of Munich's famous Biergartens
     
    Thur, Aug 25:  Downtown walking tour of historic highlights, Marienplatz, and the Townhall; lunch at the Hofbrau Haus; dinner and dancing at Waldwirtschaft's Jazzbiergarten.
     
    Fri, Aug 26:  Tour of Nymphenburg Palace, museums, and botanic gardens; dinner in historic bodega; Friday night workshop and dance party at "Swing & The City"

     

     

    DANUBE DANCE, BIKE, & BARGE CRUISE (Aug 27-Sept 3):

     

    Sat, Aug 27 (Day 1): We'll meet in Munich as a group and take the train to Passau. At 4pm we'll board the ship and at 7 pm we depart for Engelhartszell (also known as the "City of Three Rivers"). Enjoy your first dinner on board. No doubt we will dance!
     
    Sun, Aug 28 (Day 2): Engelhartszell - Untermühl - Great Loop - Linz, 22 mi. (35 km): Today's bike route leads through a number of charming villages and bucolic landscapes. We'll stop and try some of the special cordials and liqueurs in the Trappist monastery in Engelhartszell (these are said to have "special healing power"). If you need a break from cycling, you can opt to take the little ferry boat through the romantic Schlögener loop where the river makes a very abrupt 180-degree turn. In Untermühl, we’ll re-join the ship and cruise to Linz. 
     
    Mon, Aug 29 (Day 3): Linz - Mauthausen - Grein, 22 to 26 mi. (36 to 42 km): In the morning we'll visit both the Austrian town of Mauthausen and the Celtic town of Mitterkirchen with their beautiful historic town centers.  After that, you'll also have the option to bike one of two routes. For easy cycling, you can stick to the path along the Danube. Alternatively, you can take a more difficult route to the "Clam Castle" through the beautiful back-country of the Strudengau. It is slightly hilly, but a fantastic landscape. Worthy of a visit to Grein is the impressive Castle of Greinburg.
     
    Tues, Aug 30 (Day 4): Grein - Melk, 31 mi. (50 km): Today's stage is marked by a diverse landscape. At the beginning, there is the Strudengau – a narrow point of the Danube, which used to be notorious among skippers. In Melk, we'll visit the gorgeous baroque monastery of the Benedictine brethren. The ship will sail to Tulln by night. Tulln is well-known for its numerous market gardens where the famous Art Nouveau artist Egon Schiele was born.
     
    Wed, Aug 31 (Day 5): Tulln - Vienna - Nussdorf 22 mi. (35 km): Right in front of Vienna's entrance, embedded in a breathtaking landscape, is the monastery of Klosterneuburg. From a distance, you can see the cupola of this 900-year-old baroque building. "Kahlenbergerdorf" and its wine taverns are definitely worth a visit.  After a stroll through the vineyards, you can enjoy the panoramic view over Vienna.
     
    Thur, Sept 1 (Day 6): Vienna - Nussdorf / Korneuburg - Today’s treat is touring this lovely city with Ari who has been here many times for his "Waltz Week in Vienna" program. We’ll be sure hit all the most famous places of interest like the St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, the gorgeous boulevard "Ringstraβe" with the Burgtheater, the State Opera House, and the beautiful town hall. In the evening, we'll visit some of the famous Viennese coffee houses and bodegas before boarding the ship and departing for Krems.
     
    Fri, Sept 2 (Day 7): Wachau - Pöchlarn, 24 mi. (39 km): Passing through small dreamy villages and by apricot orchards, vineyards, castles, monasteries, and other historic ruins, we'll arrive at the small Baroque town of Dürnstein, famous for the blue tower of its monastery church that is a landmark of Wachau. In the evening, we'll celebrate the end of our tour onboard with a farewell dinner and cocktails.
     
    Sat, Sept 3 (Day 8): Passau:  Every journey draws to an end. Passing through the Danube Valley, we'll take a last look at the Schlögener Schlinge ("Great Loop") before arriving in Passau where we disembark at 11:30 am.  From there, we'll take the train back to Munich where we'll regroup again for dinner and a swing dance party at the famous Vintage Club (Home of the "Rock that Swing" festival).

     

     

    *POST-TRIP MUNICH ADD-ON* (Sept 4-6):

    ---OPTIONAL---

     

    Sun, Sept 4:   Optional morning dance workshop; lunch at historic downtown bodega; outdoor swing dance in the Hofgarten; dinner and more dancing at famous Munich Biergarten.  Other tour options are at the bottom of this page.
     
    Mon, Sept 5:  Day trip to either Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria (the famous castle that the Disney Sleeping Beauty's Castle is modeled after), or to Salzburg (a charming Austrian city, birthplace of Mozart, and setting for the movie "The Sound of Music").  We will decide as a group which one to go to.
     
    Tues, Sept 6:  Walk or bike the Englischer Garten; tour the Munich Residenz, dinner and goodbye dance party at "Swing & The City"

     

    UPCOMING  EVENTS!


    ===== 2022  ===== 



    May 13-15, 2022 

    Ari & Jodi's Workshop-Palooza & Dance Weekend 

    Seattle, WA  

    CLICK HERE for registration & details!



    ---------------------


    Aug 27–Sept 3, 2022

    Dance, Bike, & Barge Cruise on the Danube. 

    Plus 3 day extensions in Munich Aug 24–27 and Sept 3–6th.  

    CLICK HERE for registration & details!



    ---------------------


    Sept 30–Oct 10, 2022

    (total, or do each part separately)


    Boston Waltz Weekend 

    (Fri, Sept 30-Sun, Oct 2)  

    *PLUS* 

    A Back-to-Back 

    New England Fall Foliage Dance Cruise to Quebec! 

    (Sun, Oct 2-Sat Oct 8)

    *AND* 

    A very special 

    Quebec Dance Exchange Weekend!

    (Sat-Mon, Oct 8-10) 


    Friday to Sunday we dance in Boston; Sunday we board the ship to Quebec. In Quebec we join the local dance community for 3 days of workshops, dances, and exploring the city!  It's the perfect way to dance your way through New England at the perfect time of year to catch the spectacular Fall Foliage!  Join us for one, two, or all three parts of this wonderful adventure!


    REGISTRATION Opening Soon!!



    ---------------------



    San Miguel de Allende, Mexico  

    October 23–30, 2022   

    This spectacular UNESCO site will be the perfect backdrop for our dance-travel adventures! Stay for an optional 3-day add-on to explore the hot springs of the region and celebrate a magical Halloween in San Miguel, Mexico style!

    CLICK HERE to sign up!



     


    =====  2023 ===== 



    Chacala, Mexico  

    March 14–21, or 15–22, 2023 (TBA):  

    We will plan to be there for the wonderful Chacala Music Festival (Mar 18 – 20), with a Puerto Vallarta extension add-on. Details coming soon.... 


    ===============


    *THE FOLLOWING EVENTS HAVE BEEN POSTPONED:  

    We will let you know the rescheduled dates once we know more ourselves....

    Join us in beautiful BC:

    [New Dates TBA]

     "Harrison Hot Springs 

       Dance & Spa Retreat" 

    Details & Registration at TheDanceSpa.com 

    Join Ari & company in beautiful British Columbia for our 7th annual dance & workshop retreat in this historic lakeside setting -- with live music & dancing, hot springs, and special guest instructor Sharon Sebo from Kelowna, B.C.      

    =====================

    Join us in Seattle:

    [New Dates TBA]

     "Waltz Fest NW" 

    Join dancers from Seattle, Portland, Vancouver (B.C.), and from across the country for our 4th annual "Waltz Fest NW!"-- celebrating our love of the waltz, the waltz community, and the diversity of the NW dance organizers, teachers, and venues that promote and support social waltzing within their dance line up.  Details from 2019 at www.waltzfestnw.com (2022 details still pending) (Special EARLY BIRD PRICING will be available for first dozen leads and follows to register) 

    =====================

    [New Dates TBA]

     "Waltz Week in Vienna" 

    Once the Ball Season opens back up in Vienna, we will put together our next fabulous trip!

    Please join us for a very special
    Ari & Jodi's
    Workshop-Palooza
    Weekend
    May 13-15, 2022 (Fri-Sun)

     Friday, May 13th 

    • 7:00-8:00pm:  Rockin' the Rumba!   
    • 8:00-11:00+pm: "Fabulous Friday" Mixed Dance & Late Night Lyric Session    

     Saturday, May 14th 

    • 12:30-2:30pm: Night-Club 2-Step Blend (A mix of NC2S & Rumba) 
    • 2:45-4:45pm:  Night Club 2-Step (Traveling & Raveling Variations)


     Sunday, May 15th 

    • 10:00am-12:00pm:  Favorite Cross-Step Waltz Variations! 
    • 12:15am-2:15pm: Fun with Cross-Step Blues!     

    -----  SUNDAY NIGHT DANCE  -----  

    • 6:30-7:30pm: Lesson: "Fun with the Blues!"
    • 7:30-10:00pm: Saturday Night Dance: "A Swingin' Soiree & Battle of the DJ's.  (wine & cheese included)

    Early Bird Pricing Good Through May 12th, 2022
    CLICK HERE for Full Details & Pre-registration


    (Below) Ari & Jodi demo NC2S-Blending during their last Seattle Workshop

    Om Sunday

    Workshop Schedule


    We are on break for the summer -- See you back in the Fall!


    All at Om Culture, 2210 N. Pacific St, Seattle.

    Workshop: 10am-12pm, followed by 

    Afternoon Tea Dance 12-2pm

    No Pre-Registration needed.  Just show up!

    CLICK HERE for details 


    COST:  Workshop + Dance (10am-2pm):  $25

    Dance Only (12-2pm):  $10


    Sun, Mar 20, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

       "Turning Foxtrot" with Zacharia & Jodi   

    Turning Foxtrot: In this workshop, you'll learn how to apply left and right waltz turns, using QQS footwork, to the foxtrot, which makes it blend effortlessly with East Coast Swing and Lindy.    


    Sun, April 3, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

       "Romantic Rumba" -- Fun with Steps and Musicality!"    

    Get your "Rhumba" on this Sunday at Om Culture! We'll start with a thorough review of the basics, then break into some fun partner combo's and stylings, then explore how rumba can be blended with other dances like WCS, Foxtrot, and Tango.


    Sun, April 10, 2022 (10am to 12pm): 

       Special "Waltz Blending" Workshop with Ari & Jodi    

    This is a special 2nd Sunday workshop as part of the Ari & Jodi Workshop Weekend.  Learn how to blend moves from other dance styles into Waltz, with a special focus on Waltz Swing! (The swing moves we will be using will be taught in the Friday night pre-dance lesson (7-8pm, April 9th) at Om Culture 


    Sun, April 17, 2022:  No Dance


    Sun, May 1, 2022:  No Dance


    March/April 2022  
    Three-Week Lyrical Fusion Intensive  

    3 THURSDAY's:  (Mar 24, 31, Apr 7) six hours of class
    • 7:00-9:00pm:   "Intro to Lyrical Fusion!" - Fusion allows you to take everything you know from all the dance styles you do, and emphasizes improvisation over steps, and musicality & playfulness over rote patterns (See demo below).  While it may look effortless, don't be deceived. There are LOTS of things to learn to make this happen fluidly and seamlessly, and that's the secret magic sauce we'll be talking about in class!  
    • 9:10-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants
    • CLICK HERE for details

    March/April 2022  
    Three-Week Lyrical Fusion Intensive  

    3 THURSDAY's:  (Mar 24, 31, Apr 7) six hours of class
    • 7:00-9:00pm:   "Intro to Lyrical Fusion!" - Fusion allows you to take everything you know from all the dance styles you do, and emphasizes improvisation over steps, and musicality & playfulness over rote patterns (See demo below).  While it may look effortless, don't be deceived. There are LOTS of things to learn to make this happen fluidly and seamlessly, and that's the secret magic sauce we'll be talking about in class!  
    • 9:10-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants
    • CLICK HERE for details

    UPCOMING  EVENTS!


    ===== 2022  ===== 


    Aug 27–Sept 3, 2022

    Dance, Bike, & Barge Cruise on the Danube. 

    Plus 3 day extensions in Munich Aug 24–27 and Sept 3–6th.  

    CLICK HERE for details!

    **SOLD OUT! -- SHIP IS NOW FULL**

    But let us know your interest for 2023!



    ---------------------



    Sept 30–Oct 11, 2022

    3-in-1 New England Extravaganza!

    (do all together or any part separately)


    Boston Waltz Weekend 

    (Fri, Sept 30-Sun, Oct 2)  

    *PLUS* 

    A Back-to-Back 

    New England Fall Foliage Dance Cruise to Quebec! 

    (Sun, Oct 2-Sat Oct 8)

    *AND* 

    A very special 

    Quebec Dance Exchange Weekend!

    (Sat-Mon, Oct 8-11) 


    Friday to Sunday we dance in Boston; Sunday we board the ship to Quebec. In Quebec we join the local dance community for 3 days of workshops, dances, and exploring the city!  It's the perfect way to dance your way through New England at the perfect time of year to catch the spectacular Fall Foliage!  Join us for one, two, or all three parts of this wonderful adventure!


    REGISTRATION is OPEN!!

    Details and Info HERE

    Registration is HERE



    ---------------------



    San Miguel de Allende, Mexico  

    October 23–30, 2022   

    This spectacular UNESCO site will be the perfect backdrop for our dance-travel adventures! Stay for an optional 3-day add-on to explore the hot springs of the region and celebrate a magical Halloween in San Miguel, Mexico style!

    CLICK HERE to sign up!



    ---------------------


    Chacala, Mexico  

    Nov 29 - Dec 6, 2022   

    A truly incredible blend of travel, play, & learning! During Mexico Dance Week in Chacala, we use the seaside village of Chacala as our veritable playground -- relaxing, taking in the casual vibe, exploring the region's natural beauty, enjoying unique local dining & dancing opportunities, attending dance classes together, and spending a portion of each day engaged in some kind of fun outdoor 'adventure'.

    CLICK HERE to sign up! 



    =====  2023 ===== 


    New Orleans "French Qtr Festival" Weekend + Caribbean Dance Cruise  

    April 13-23, 2023 (Details TBA):

     Details coming soon.... 



    ===============


    *THE FOLLOWING EVENTS HAVE BEEN POSTPONED:  

    We will let you know the rescheduled dates once we know more ourselves....

    Join us in beautiful BC:

    [New Dates TBA]

     "Harrison Hot Springs 

       Dance & Spa Retreat" 

    Details & Registration at TheDanceSpa.com 

    Join Ari & company in beautiful British Columbia for our 7th annual dance & workshop retreat in this historic lakeside setting -- with live music & dancing, hot springs, and special guest instructor Sharon Sebo from Kelowna, B.C.      

    =====================

    Join us in Seattle:

    [New Dates TBA]

     "Waltz Fest NW" 

    Join dancers from Seattle, Portland, Vancouver (B.C.), and from across the country for our 4th annual "Waltz Fest NW!"-- celebrating our love of the waltz, the waltz community, and the diversity of the NW dance organizers, teachers, and venues that promote and support social waltzing within their dance line up.  Details from 2019 at www.waltzfestnw.com (2022 details still pending) (Special EARLY BIRD PRICING will be available for first dozen leads and follows to register) 

    =====================

    [New Dates TBA]

     "Waltz Week in Vienna" 

    Once the Ball Season opens back up in Vienna, we will put together our next fabulous trip!

    TEACHING SCHEDULE 2020

    Feb 1-26, 2020:  Oceana Dance Tour (Australia, New Zealand)

    • Feb 14-17 (Christchurch, New Zealand):  "Lounge Blues Festival"  

    Feb-Mar, 2020:  California Dance Tour

    • Mar 2-4, 2020 (Palm Springs):  Private Event, Instructor, DJ 
    • Mar 5, 2020 (Mountain View, CA):  "South Bay Fusion" (Blues & Fusion) Instructor, DJ
    • Mar 6, 2020 (Los Gatos, CA):  Private Event
    • Mar 7, 2020 (San Francisco, CA):  "Mission Fusion" (Fusion) Instructor, DJ

    March 20-22, 2020 (Seattle, WA): "Emerald City Hoedown" - WCS & NC2S Workshops on Sat

    March 28- April 4, 2020 (Chacala, Mexico):  Mexico Dance Week.  Details at www.mexicodanceadventure.com 

    April 17-19, 2020 (Harrison Hot Springs, B.C):  Dance & Spa Retreat: "Unlock Your Dance Potential" with special guests Sharon Sebo & Phil Leger

    April 30 - May 3, 2020 (Kelowna, B.C.):  Kelowna "Rolls Up The Rug" Weekend (Details Pending)

    May 8-10, 2020 (Seattle, WA):  "Seattle Swing Fest" - celebrating all things swing and how to blend them together!  (Details Pending)

    April 30 - May 15,17 2020 (Anchorage, AK):  Anchorage "Rolls Up The Rug" Weekend (Details Pending)

    May 22-25 (Seattle, WA):  Northwest Folklife Festival  (schedule to be published May 1st)

    • FRI, May 22th
    • SAT, May 23rd
    • MON, May 24th

    Aug 2-9 (St. Petersburg, Russia):  Russia Waltz Festival, Instructor, DJ (details pending)

    Aug 28-30 (Lake Slokane, B.C.):  Casa Silverton Dance Stampede  (details pending) Instructor, DJ

    Sept 3-7 (San Francisco, CA):  IAGLCWD National Conference (Instructor, DJ) TBA

    Aug 23-26, 2019 (Fri-Sun):  Casa Silverton Dance Stampede (New Denver, B.C.):  Instructor, DJ.  

    Oct 16-18, 2019 (Fri-Sun):  "Octoberfest" in Leavenworth + Lake Chelan Workshops , Instructor, organizer  (Details TBA) 

    Nov, 2019 (San Diego, CA):  Exponential Medicine, Faculty, Instructor, MEDy Award facilitator. Experiential Wellness & Dance. Details at:  http://ExponentialMedicine.com

    Nov 20-22, 2019 (Fri-Sun): Hi-Fidelity Fusion Festival  (Seattle, WA)  TBA  

    TEACHING SCHEDULE 2019

    Feb, 2019:  Europe Dance Tour, "Waltz Week in Vienna" Tentative Schedule

    • Feb 17-22, 2019 (Vienna, Austria):  "Waltz Week in Vienna" (with optional pre-camp dance blues weekend, and post-camp swing workshops and festivals in Prague & Munich).  CLICK HERE full details and registration.
    • Feb 23, 2019 (Prague, Czechoslovakia):  Shag & Swing workshops.  
    • Feb 24-28, 2019 (Munich, Germany):  "Munich Rolls Up the Rug" Lindy-Hop, Waltz, Balboa, & Fusion workshops with Ari & Christine.  Details at www.swingandthecity.com 
    • Feb 28-Mar 3, 2019 (Munich, Germany):  "Rock That Swing Festival" -- Join us for Europe's largest swing dance festival and party, with top instructors and bands, and featuring workshops and dances in all kinds of swing!   CLICK HERE for details and registration

    March 16-23, 2019 (Sun-Sun):  Mexico Dance Week & Chacala Music & Arts Festival.  Details at www.mexicodanceadventure.com 

    May 10-12, 2019 (Seattle, WA):  Waltz Fest NW, Four nights of dances and two days of workshops celebrating all things waltz!   Organizer, Instructor

    May 24-27 (Seattle, WA):  Northwest Folklife Festival, Instructor

    • FRI, May 24th, 7-10pm in the Armory:  The Blues Showcase 
    • SAT, May 25, 4:30-5:30pm in the Armory Theater #4:  "The Art of Balboa, 1-Step, & Rag”
    • MON, May 27th, 3:00-3:50pm in the Armory Theater #4:  “The History of Blues Music & Movement

    May 26 (Seattle, WA):  Emerald City Hoedown, Instructor

    June 21-23, 2019 (Harrison Hot Springs, B.C):  Dance & Spa Retreat: "Unlock Your Dance Potential" with special guests Sharon Sebo, Phil Leger, and Alyssa Manning

    July 5-7 (Portland, OR):  Portland Blues Experience (PBEx)  Fusion Room Instructor, DJ

    July 9-11 (Ashland, OR):  Fusion Workshop, Details TBA

    July 12-15 (San Francisco, CA):  Bay Area Micro Fusion Festival (BaMF) Instructor, DJ

    Aug 3-10, 2019 (Sat-Sat): American Dance & Music Week @ Pinewoods Dance Camp (Plymouth, MA):  Instructor, DJ.  

    Aug 11-15, 2019 (Boston, MA): Dance Workshops  (Details TBA)

    Aug 16-18, 2019 (Ithaca, NY):  Ithaca Fusion Workshops, Co-director, Instructor (Details TBA)

    Aug 19-22, 2019 (Fort Flagler, WA):  "Dance Camp NW", Instructor, DJ

    Aug 23-26, 2019 (Fri-Sun):  Casa Silverton Dance Stampede (New Denver, B.C.):  Instructor, DJ.  

    Sept 13-30 (Germany & Russia) "Sound of Music" Tour:  

    Sept 13-15:  Berlin Swing Festival, Instructor  (Details TBA)

    Sept 16-18:  Salzburg Workshops, Instructor  (Details TBA)

    Sept 19-22:  Munich Lindy Exchange, Instructor, DJ (Details TBA)

    Sept 23-27:  Munich - Specialty Classes & Workshops, Instructor

    Sept 28-30:  Berlin SpreeAthen Dance Camp, Instructor

    Oct 1-7:  Blues & Waltz Workshops in St. Petersburg, Russia, Instructor

    Oct 8-10:  Munich & Regensburg - Specialty Classes & Workshops, Instructor

    Oct 11-13, 2019 (Fri-Sun): Hi-Fidelity Fusion Festival  (Seattle, WA):  

    Oct 18-20, 2019 (Fri-Sun):  "Octoberfest" in Leavenworth + Lake Chelan Workshops , Instructor, organizer  (Details TBA) 

    Oct 31-Nov 3, 2019 (Thur-Sun):  "Sundance Stampede", San Francisco, CA  (Instructor) 

    Nov 4-7, 2019 (San Diego, CA):  Exponential Medicine, Faculty, Instructor, MEDy Award facilitator. Experiential Wellness & Dance. Details at:  http://ExponentialMedicine.com

    Dec 6-8, 2019 (Fri-Sun): Portland Rolls Up The Rug (Portland, OR):  Instructor, DJ.  Details pending

    Jan 26, 2020 (Sun):  SPECIAL FILM-FEST SCREENING: "Mamboniks" film, dance class, drinks & tapas (Straum Jewish Community Center, Mercer Island, WA).  Get tickets HERE



    TEACHING SCHEDULE 2018

    Feb 11 (Mercer Island, WA):  "Swing, Sip, & Screen", Blues Connections Workshop & movie preview, Mercer Island JCC, Instructor

    Feb 16 (Mercer Island, WA):  "Mercer Island Arts Counsel Community Dance - Live Swing & Blues Music, VFW Hall, Pre-Dance Lesson with Ari

    Apr 8-15 (Chacala, Mexico):  "Mexico Dance Adventure Retreat":  Coordinator, Instructor

    Apr 19-23 (Anchorage, AK):   "Anchorage Rolls Up The Rug", Instructor

    Apr 27-29 (New Orleans, LA):  New Orleans "Jazz Fest", Pre-Cruise Weekend

    Apr 29-May 6 (New Orleans, LA):  Caribbean Dance Cruise & "All That Jazz", co-hosting with The Rockin' Horse Barn

    May 25-28 (Seattle, WA):  Northwest Folklife Festival, Instructor

    June 1-3 (Whidbey Island, WA)  "Heart Sound Fusion", Co-director, Instructor

    June 8-11 (Seattle, WA):  Waltz Fest NW, Organizer, Instructor

    June 11-14 (Seattle, WA):  "Seattle Sampler" Dance Week, Organizer, Instructor

    June 15-17 (Harrison Hot Springs, B.C):  Dance & Spa Retreat: "Unlock Your Dance Potential".  Director, Instructor, with special guest, Sharon Sebo

    June 18-24 (Dayton, OH):  Dayton Historic Dance Week, Instructor, DJ

    June 30  (Lake Chelan, WA):  "Lake Chelan Workshops", Instructor 

    July 7-8  (Ashland, OR):  "Ashland Rolls Up The Rug", Instructor

    July 13-15 (Veneta, OR):  Oregon Country Fair, Instructor, DJ

    July 20-22 (Port Townsend, WA):  "Fusion Inclusion",  Recess Instructor, DJ

    July 28 (Tacoma, WA):  Ballroom Dance Night Instructor, Swing Class

    Aug 19-26 (Fort Flagler, WA):  "Dance Camp NW", Instructor, DJ

    Aug TBA (Seattle, WA):  "Swing, Sip, & Screen", Mercer Island JCC, Instructor

    Sept 7-9  (Lake Chelan, WA):  "Lake Chelan Workshop", Instructor 

    Oct 20  (Lake Chelan, WA):  "Lake Chelan Workshop", Instructor 

    Oct 27-Nov 4 (Kona & Hilo, HI, Canada)  "Hawaii Dance Adventure", Organizer, Instructor. It's a create your own dance adventure week on Hawaii!  CLICK HERE for full details and registration. 

    Nov 4-7 (San Diego, CA):  Exponential Medicine, Faculty, Instructor, MEDy Award facilitator. Experiential Wellness & Dance.

    Nov 7 (Los Angeles, CA):  Just Dance Studios "NC2S Fusion Workshop" with Ari 

    Nov 29-Dec 2 (Glenwood Springs, CO):  "Glenwood Springs Rolls Up The Rug", Workshop & Spa Weekend

    Dec 30 (Seattle, WA):  "New Year's Eve Eve Party" with Ari & Tony:  Join us on the eve before the eve at China Harbor for a fabulous 2108 send-off!  Details pending...




    TEACHING SCHEDULE 2017

    Jan 28 (Mercer Island, WA):  "Mercer Island Arts Counsel Community Dance - Live Music with Casey McGill", Pre-Dance Lesson with Ari

    Feb 18-20 (Harrison Hot Springs, B.C):  Dance & Spa Retreat: "Unlock Your Dance Potential".  Director, Instructor

    Feb 24-26 (Seattle, WA):  Emily Webb Workshop

    Mar 3-5 (Mauii, HI):  Kihei "Rolls Up The Rug", Private Workshop Event  

    Apr 1-8 (Chacala, Mexico):  "Mexico Dance Adventure Retreat":  Coordinator, Instructor

    Apr 21-23 (Mansfield, MA):  NEFFA, "New England Folk Festival", Instructor

    April 29 (Olympia, WA):  Olympia "Rolls Up The Rug":  Dance Workshop Instructor, DJ

    May 12-15 (Anchorage, AK):  "Anchorage Rolls Up The Rug", Instructor

    May 19-21 (Whidbey Island, WA)  "Heart Sound Fusion", Co-director, Instructor

    May 26-29 (Seattle, WA):  Northwest Folklife Festival, Instructor

    Jun 9-12 (Seattle, WA):  Waltz Fest NW, Organizer, Instructor

    Jun 9-July 20 (European Tour):  

    June 12-28 (Spain):  Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Granada

    June 29-July 9 (Costa Brava, France, & Italy): Le Escala, Cannes, Cinquterra, Sienna, Sorento, Amalfi, Rome

    July 10-July 20 (Italy, Greece, Mediterranean):  Rome, Florence, Cagliari, Crete, Athens, Santorini, Olympia, Malta, Sicily, Naples

    Jul 21-23 (Port Townsend, WA):  "Fusion Inclusion",  Recess Instructor, DJ

    Aug 13-16 (Chelan, WA):  "Lake Chelan Rolls Up The Rug"

    Aug 19-23 (Fort Flagler, WA):  "Dance Camp NW", Instructor, DJ

    Aug 26 (Seattle, WA):  "Swing, Sip, & Screen", Mercer Island JCC, Instructor

    Sept 3, 10 (Seattle, WA):  "Om Fusion", Instructor, DJ

    Sept 29-Oct 1 (Seattle, WA):  "Seattle Fusion Festival (SFF)", Instructor

    Oct 5 (Rifle, CO):  Colorado "Dances With Horses", Workshop

    Oct 6-8 (Glenwood Springs, CO):  "Glenwood Springs Rolls Up The Rug", Workshop & Spa Weekend

    Oct 13-15 (Boston, MA)  "Boston Waltz Weekend", Instructor

    Oct 15-19 (New England, Canada)  "New England Fall Colors Dance Cruise", Organizer, Instructor

    Oct 20-22 (Philadelphia, PA)  Blues Muse 

    Nov 5-8 (San Diego, CA):  Exponential Medicine, Faculty, Instructor, MEDy Award facilitator. Experiential Wellness & Dance.

    Nov 10-13 (Eugene, OR):  "Danceable Feast" Faculty, Instructor

    Nov 17-19 (Portland, OR):   "Portland Rolls Up The Rug" Instructor, DJ

    Dec 1-4 (Hilo, HI):   "Hawaii Rolls Up The Rug" Instructor, DJ




     TEACHING SCHEDULE 2016

    Jan 21 - March 15:  Europe Tour:  Austria, Germany, Czech Republic, Belgium, Spain, France:

    Jan 21-24, 2016 (Munich, Germany):  "Munich Rolls Up the Rug" ballroom, swing, and blues fusion workshops with Ari.  Details at www.swingandthecity.com

    Jan 28-31, 2016 (Vienna, Austria):  "Snowball Blues Weekend" with Ari & Christine.  Details at www.waltzweekinvienna.com

    Feb 1-7, 2016 (Vienna, Austria):  "Waltz Week in Vienna" (with optional pre-camp dance blues weekend, and post-camp swing workshops and festivals in Prague & Munich) Details at www.waltzweekinvienna.com

    Feb 8-11, 2016 (Prague, Czechoslovakia):  Shag & Swing "Fusion" Workshops

    Feb 11-15, 2016  (Belgium):  Belgium Rolls Up The Rug [TBA]

    Feb 25-29 (Seattle, WA):  Flouer Courtney Workshop Weekend - Blues, Jazz Movement, Swing, & More

    Mar 3-6 (Seattle, WA):   "Emerald City Hoedown" Instructor 

    Mar 10-13 (San Francisco, CA):   "Mission Fusion Extravaganza" Instructor , DJ

    March 26 (Tacoma, WA):  "Tacoma Dance Extravaganza", Workshop Instructor

    April 9-16 (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico):  "Mexico Dance Adventure Retreat":  Coordinator, Instructor

    April 28 (Port Townsend, WA):  Special "Roll Up The Rug" Workshop: A History of 'Solo & Partnered' Musicality & Movement 

    May13-15 (Seattle, WA):  Campbell Miller Workshop Weekend "Blues, Waltz, NC2S, Country 2-Step, & More"

    May 26 (Port Townsend, WA):  Special "Roll Up The Rug" Workshop: "Swing Your Socks Off"

    May 27-30 (Seattle, WA):  Folklife Festival, Instructor, Performer - "History of Blues Showcase" (Fri 5pm, Outdoor Dance Stage), Blues Instructor (Fri, Armory Stage 7:45, 8:45pm)

    June 3-5 (New York City, NY):  "NYC Rolls Up The Rug" Workshops,  Friday Night Blues" Instructor, DJ

    June 17-19 (Nanaimo, B.C):  Nanaimo Dance Camp, Instructor 

    June 20 (Victoria, B.C):  "Dancing With Horses", West Coast Workshop Premier, Instructor 

    June 23 (Port Townsend, WA):  Special "Roll Up The Rug" Workshop

    June 25-July 1 (Badlands, SD):  "Roll Up The Rug" Workshop

    July 12 (Seattle, WA):  Dancing 'Til Dusk, Instructor (Occidental Park, Seattle, WA)

    July 15-24:  East Coast Tour:  New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Maryland  (Details TBA)

    July 15-21 (Boston, MA):  Boston "Rolls Up The Rug", Workshops Instructor  [Details TBA]

    July 15-21 (Philadelphia, PA):  Phili "Rolls Up The Rug", Workshops Instructor  [Details TBA]

    July 15-21 (Baltimore, MD):  Promenade Ballroom, Instructor [Details TBA]

    July 15-21 (Hartford, CT):   Hartford "Rolls Up The Rug", Workshops Instructor  [Details TBA]

    July 22-24 (New York City, NY):   Nocturne Blues, Workshops

    July 29-Aug 15:  Japan Tour:  

    July 29-Aug 5 (Tokyo, Japan):   [Details TBA]

    Aug 6 (Akita, Japan):  "Pole Lantern Festival"  [Details TBA]

    Aug 7 (Aomori, Japan):  "Nebuta Festival"  [Details TBA]

    Aug 12 (Kochi, Japan):  "Dance Festival"  [Details TBA]

    Aug 13 (Tokashima, Japan):  "Folk Dance Festival"  [Details TBA]

    Aug 19-23 (Fort Flagler, WA):  Dance Camp NW, Instructor, DJ

    Aug 28-Sept 4 (Seattle <-> Alaska):  Alaska Dance Adventure Cruise: Coordinator, Instructor:  A fabulous Week of Dancing & Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage!  

    Aug 30 (Juneau, AK):  Special "Roll Up The Rug" Workshop & Dance: "Salsa Blues Fusion"

    Sept 3 (Victoria, BC):  Special "Roll Up The Rug" Swing Dance Night

    Sept 23-25 (Piedmont, NC):  Special "Roll Up The Rug" Workshop Weekend to celebrate the Piedmont Dance Society's 16th Anniversary.  Instructor, DJ

    Sept 30-Oct 3 (Glenwood Springs, CO):  Glenwood Springs "Rolls Up The Rug", Workshop Weekend

    Oct 8-11 (San Diego, CA):  Exponential Medicine, Faculty, Instructor, MEDy Award facilitator. Experiential Wellness & Dance.

    Oct 18 (Seattle, WA):  Om Fusion, Instructor, DJ. Learn "NC2S-Fusion" at Om Culture from 7-8pm with Ari. Then enjoy the dance from 8-11:30pm

    Nov 11-14 (Eugene, OR):  "Danceable Feast" Faculty, Instructor

    Nov 19 (Bremerton, WA):  Bremerton "Rolls Up The Rug" Latin-Waltz Workshop & Dance, Instructor & DJ

    Nov 25-28 (Albuquerque, NM):  Albuquerque "Rolls Up The Rug", Thanksgiving Workshop Weekend, Instructor, DJ

    Dec 3 (Mercer Island, WA):  JCC "Evening of Swing", Dance Instructor & DJ 

    Dec 17 (Tacoma, WA):  USBDA "Tacoma Dance Extravaganza", Dance Instructor

    Dec 25-29 (Kihei, HI):  Hawaii "Rolls Up The Rug", Workshop Instructor




    ------------------------------------------------------------------


    TEACHING SCHEDULE 2022

    Feb 12-23, 2022 (Kitsap, WA): Kitsap "Rolls Up The Rug"  Dance Workshop Weekend

    Mar 18-20, 2022 (Boston, MA):  "Boston Waltz Weekend", instructor, DJ

    Mar 24-27, 2022 (Seattle, WA):  "Emerald City Hoedown", instructor

    Apr 8-10, 2022 (Seattle, WA):  "Ari & Jodi's Blend-tastic Weekend", instructor/DJ

    Apr 13-28, 2022 (Europe):  Ari teaches in Spain, Germany, Switzerland, France 

    Apr 29-30, 2022 (Camano Island, WA):  Fabulous Fri & Sat workshops & dance

    May 2-9, 2022 (East Coast Tour): Instructor

    • May 2-5, 2022 (NYC): Instructor, private event
    • May 6-8, 2022 (Amherst, MA):  "For Instructors Only - Adv Waltz Workshop", instructor/DJ; Mostly Waltz Greenfield dance
    • May 8-9, 2022 (Boston, MA):  Instructor, private event

    May 18-June 2, 2022 (San Francisco, CA - Bay Area): 

    • May 19, 2022 (Mountain View, CA):  "South Bay Fusion", instructor/DJ
    • May 20, 2022 (Palo Alto, CA):  "Friday Night Waltz", instructor, DJ
    • May 21, 2022 (San Francisco, CA):  "Mission Fusion", instructor, DJ

    • May 25-29, 2022 (San Francisco, CA):  "Sundance Stompede", instructor

    June 3-5, 2022 (Eugene, OR):  Eugene "Rolls Up The Rug" dance weekend, instructor

    June 7-13, 2022 (Portland, OR):  Portland "Rolls Up The Rug" dance week, instr/DJ

    • Wed, June 8, 2022 (Portland, OR):  Lenora's Room (TBA)", instr
    • Thur, June 9, 2022 (Portland, OR):  Rose City Studio (TBA)", instr
    • Fri, June 10, 2022 (Portland, OR):  Dance For Joy Studio (TBA)", instr
    • Sat, June 10, 2022 (Portland, OR):  Connect to Dance (TBA)", instr
    • Sat, June 10, 2022 (Portland, OR):  Norse Hall - Blues & Fusion (TBA)", instr/DJ

      • Sun, June 11, 2022 (Portland, OR):  "Waltz Eclectic" lesson & dance, instr
      • Mon, June 12, 2022 (Portland, OR):  Monday Dance @ Lenora's", instr/DJ
      June 15-19, 2022 (McCloud, OR):  Burning Tango Dance Weekend

      June 20-23, 2022 (Eugene, OR):  Eugene & Corvallis Workshops & Privates

      July 27-Aug 22, 2022 (Israel):  Tour of Israel, workshops (Tel Aviv, Haifa, Masada, Jerusalem), instructor, DJ

      Aug 22-24, 2022 (Croatia): Croatia Exploratory Dance Trip - Zadar, Rijeka, Pula, Susak Island Retreat (TBA)

      Aug 24-Sept 6, 2022 (Germany, Austria):  "Danube Bike Barge & Dance Cruise", instructor/DJ, co-organizer

      Sept 6-9, 2022 (Venice, Italy):  Tour of Venice

      Sept 9-15, 2022 (Croatia):  Tour of Ravinj, Pula, Rijeka

      Sept 15-21, 2022 (Munich, Germany):  Oktoberfest workshops, instructor

      Sept 21-28, 2022 (Ithaca, NY):  Workshops and lessons, Instructor, DJ

      Sept 29-Oct 10, 2022 (Boston & Quebec): "New England Fall Foliage Dance & Discover Extravaganza", instructor/DJ, co-organizer

      Oct 23-Nov 2, 2022 (San Miguel de Allende, Mexico):  "San Miguel Dance Adventure"

      • Oct 23-30, 2022 (San Miguel de Allende, Mexico):  "Mexico Dance Adventure", instructor/DJ, co-organizer
      • Oct 30-Nov 2, 2022 (San Miguel de Allende, Mexico):  "Post-Mexico Dance Adventure Halloween & Hot Springs Add-On", Instructor (TBA)
      Nov 6-27, 2022, 2022 (Valencia, Spain):  "Swing it in Spain with Christine & Ari"
      • Nov 6-13, 2022: Focus in Lindy Int-Adv/Adv:  instructor/DJ, co-organizer

        *BONUS: Join us for the "Black Bottom Swing Festival" in Valencia from Nov 11-13, 2022! 

      • Nov 13-19, 2022: Focus in Blues, Laminu, & Balboa, Int-Adv/Adv:   instructor/DJ, co-organizer

      • Nov 22-26, 2022: Individual Private Lesson with Christine & Ari:   instructor/DJ, co-organizer

      Nov 19-22, 2022 (Paris, France): Paris Swings:   instructor/DJ, co-organizer

      Nov 26-29, 2022 (Barcelona, Spain): Barcelona Swings:  instructor/DJ

      Nov 29-Dec 6, 2022 (Chacala, Mexico):  "Mexico Dance Adventure, Chacala"   instructor/DJ, co-organizer

      UPCOMING  EVENTS!


      ===== 2022  ===== 



      San Miguel de Allende, Mexico  

      October 23–30, 2022   

      This spectacular UNESCO site will be the perfect backdrop for our dance-travel adventures! Stay for an optional 3-day add-on to explore the hot springs of the region and celebrate a magical Halloween in San Miguel, Mexico style!

      CLICK HERE to sign up!



      ---------------------



      Valencia, Spain

      "Swing it in Espana!"  

      Nov 6-27, 2022   

      If you love dancing, sunshine and good food, you’ll love Valencia!  You can choose between 1, 2, or all 3 of the following week options:


      1st Week, Nov 6-13, 2022: “Lindy Int-Adv”

      Enjoy over 10 hours of lessons with Ari & Christine, an exclusive paella meal, dancing, & sightseeing in Valencia and nightly sunset dances and socializing!  Accommodations are included in the price.


      *End of week 1 – beginning of week 2: Valencia Black Bottom Festival – 10 Year Anniversary

      Nov 11-13th is the anniversary of Valencia's famous Black Bottom Swing School and they are having a festival with live Bands playing at the Palau de les Arts. Stay after the first week, or come early for the second week and join us for the festival!  


      2nd Week, Nov 13-20, 2022: “Val-Bal Holiday in Valencia, Spain”

      Dancing to all tempi Balboa: from slow Laminu to Fast Pure Bal (focussing on Dance Technique and some lovely Figures (Balboa Int/Int-Adv)


      3rd Week,  Nov 20-27, 2022  “Individual Private Lessons with Ari & Christine”  Enjoy a wonderful get-a-way with one-on-one private instruction from Ari and/or Christine included in the price.  It’s the perfect opportunity to take your dancing to that next level!


      CLICK HERE for Full Details & Registration   



      ---------------------



      Chacala, Mexico  

      Nov 29 - Dec 6, 2022   

      A truly incredible blend of travel, play, & learning! During Mexico Dance Week in Chacala, we use the seaside village of Chacala as our veritable playground -- relaxing, taking in the casual vibe, exploring the region's natural beauty, enjoying unique local dining & dancing opportunities, attending dance classes together, and spending a portion of each day engaged in some kind of fun outdoor 'adventure'.

      CLICK HERE to sign up! 



      =====  2023 ===== 


      "Waltz Week in Vienna!"  

      Feb 19-26, 2023

      3 balls, 8 days, 1 amazing experience!

       Come join us in the city where it all began

       

      Waltz Week is the ultimate in elegant dance adventures -- a truly incredible travel, play, & workshop experience specifically designed for dancers who not only want to enjoy the elegance, beauty, and grandeur of waltz season in Vienna, but who would also love to do so in the company of a fun group of like-minded fellow travel-adventurers! 


      Plus, come early for the "Rock that Swing" Festival in Munich Feb 16-20, 2022. 

       

      Details and Registration at:

      www.waltzweekinvienna.com 



      =====  2024 ===== 


      New Orleans "French Qtr Festival" Weekend + Caribbean Dance Cruise  

      April, 2024 

       Details coming soon.... 


      ===============


      *THE FOLLOWING EVENTS HAVE BEEN POSTPONED:  

      We will let you know the rescheduled dates once we know more ourselves....

      Join us in beautiful BC:

      [New Dates TBA]

       "Harrison Hot Springs 

         Dance & Spa Retreat" 

      Details & Registration at TheDanceSpa.com 

      Join Ari & company in beautiful British Columbia for our 7th annual dance & workshop retreat in this historic lakeside setting -- with live music & dancing, hot springs, and special guest instructor Sharon Sebo from Kelowna, B.C.      

      =====================

      Join us in Seattle:

      [New Dates TBA]

       "Waltz Fest NW" 

      Join dancers from Seattle, Portland, Vancouver (B.C.), and from across the country for our 4th annual "Waltz Fest NW!"-- celebrating our love of the waltz, the waltz community, and the diversity of the NW dance organizers, teachers, and venues that promote and support social waltzing within their dance line up.  Details from 2019 at www.waltzfestnw.com (2022 details still pending) (Special EARLY BIRD PRICING will be available for first dozen leads and follows to register) 

      =====================

      [New Dates TBA]

       "Waltz Week in Vienna" 

      Once the Ball Season opens back up in Vienna, we will put together our next fabulous trip!

      Upcoming WORKSHOPS!

      (Mark Your Calendars):  


      Ari & Jodi Dance Workshop Weekend  

      October 14–16, 2022   

       

      Mark your calendars.  Details and registration coming soon. All classes at Om Culture

       
      1)  Fri, Oct 14th:  7:00-8:00pm: 
      A special "Swing-it, Bavarian Style" workshop preceding the Fabulous Friday Dance at Om Culture
       
      2)  Sat, Oct 15th, 3:00-5:00pm:  
      A fabulous "Night-Club 2-Step" Workshop!  
       
      3)  Sun, Oct 16th, 10:00am-12:00pm: 
      A new "Cross-Step Waltz Variations" Workshop!  
       
      4)  Sun, Oct 16th, 1:00-3:00pm: 
       "TBA" 


      Om Sunday

      Workshop & Tea-Dance Schedule


      We are on break for the summer -- See you back in the Fall!


      All at Om Culture, 2210 N. Pacific St, Seattle.

      Workshop: 10am-12pm, followed by 

      Afternoon Tea Dance 12-2pm

      No Pre-Registration needed.  Just show up!

      CLICK HERE for details 


      COST:  Workshop + Dance (10am-2pm):  $25

      Dance Only (12-2pm):  $10



      MARCH/APRIL 2022 

      Intro to Lyrical Fusion   

      Classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio (Must pre-register for directions)


      3 THURSDAYS's:  (March 24th, 31st & April 7th,)  six hours of class

      • 7:00-9:00pm:   "Intro to Lyrical Fusion:  (see video above) As a dance genre, fusion allows you to take everything you know from all the dance styles you do, all the while emphasizing improvisation over steps and musicality & playfulness over rote patterns.  Lyrical fusion does the same, but on a level that starts with a whisper, and with some of the most beautiful etherial music you'll ever hear!  

      • For folks who have a little social dance under their belts and who would like to take that dance into a whole new territory, this is the perfect class for you!  In the first hour, we'll explore the secret language of effortless lead, follow, and flow (and believe me, there is a LOT to learn here!).  In the second hour we'll turn those concepts into really fun movements and combination opportunities! 

      • It's the perfect way to not only expand your horizons and build confidence on what you know, but it will give you all the fodder you need to improvise and play during our "Fabulous Friday" late-night lyrical fusion sets (every 2nd & 4th Friday at Om Culture, after 10pm)!   
        • Level: Any basic social dance experience recommended.  

      • 9:00-9:30+pm:  Wine & cheese social and guided practica!



      LOGISTICS


      TIMES: 
      • 6:45pm:  Doors open, warm-up and stretch
      • 7:00-9:00pm:  Class  
      • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practica

      LOCATION:  

      • Ari's Home Studio.  You must pre-register online to get the address.  Ari's home studio is located in the Eastlake neighborhood of Seattle, just off of I-5 at the I-5 & 520 intersection

      CLASS SIZE:        

      Class sizes are limited to 6 leads and 6 follows, so register soon!  
      Vax + Mask only (please bring proof of vaccine to the first class) 

      COST: 

      3-WEEK SESSION (6+ hr's of instruction):  $75
      • STUDENTS (under age 25, with student ID):   $50

      TO REGISTER & PAY:  Click on the "Registration" button in the menu on the top left side of this page to go to the Registration Page.  If you are signing up for the "role reversal" option, please register for the role you would like to dance in the class.

      Payment can be made from the Payment page using PayPal or a credit card, or by check sent by mail,  or paid at the door just before the first class. Payment by check will help you to avoid the additional online PayPal surcharge. 

      Class size is limited, so register early!  

       CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page


      Join us for a 4-day 

      San Miguel de Allende Trip Extension 

      Oct 30-Nov 3 

      to experience the "Day of the Dead" in Mexico


      We will be staying on for 4 nights, Oct 30, 31, Nov 1, and Nov 2, in Casa Contenta -- a very special property with 7 bedrooms, 7.5 baths, and wonderful indoor and outdoor spaces. 


        

      We have room for 12 people in double rooms, all of which are lovely.  Cost is $145 per night per person (double occupancy) for most rooms, $155 per night per person for the Girasol suite.  Pricing includes the 30% local taxes, and is extremely reasonable for San Miguel de Allende, especially on this high holiday when rooms are running $700 (!!!!) a night.  If you prefer a private room to yourself, let me know ASAP.

       

      Possible schedule Oct 30 – Nov 3

      • The schedule for the extension is completely open to allow whatever exploration you prefer. 
      • While we will no doubt do many activities  as a group, they are completely optional, and you will have plenty of time on your own to relax and explore.
      • Meals are not included, to allow us to explore the many restaurant options, or cook at home (there are 2 full kitchens). There is a lovely coffee shop/cafe right next to Casa Contenta that is highly recommended.
      • The main Dia de los Muertos activities are Nov 1 and 2, centered in the “Jardin” in San Miguel which is a 10 minute walk from Casa Contenta.  It will be very fun to enjoy these as a group. To help us get the most out of Day of the Dead, I am setting up classes for face-painting, crafts, a talk on the holiday itself, cemetery tour (I hear this is the best…) etc. We may also have access to art and mindfulness classes.  
      • To allow time in town, we are not scheduling dance classes during the extension.  We will no doubt offer pop-up dances and classes whenever we have the opportunity.

       

      Options we may take advantage of as a complete or smaller group:

      • Hot springs
      • Exploring other towns
      • Cooking class

                        And so much more!  

                            What would YOU like to do?  (Let us know and we'll make it happen!)






      SUNDAY, Dec 18: 
      with NW Dance Network (at the Swedish Club)
      CLICK HERE to Register

      1)  Cross-Step Waltz:  3:30-5:00pm:  Learn how to intermix and blend some unique swing-inspired moves into your waltz. A perfect fusion of two dances that we all know and love!
       
      2)  Fancy Foxtrot: 5:15-6:45pm:        Learn some fun, new Foxtrot combinations (with a special section on rhythms and breaks!)

      3)  FREE Dance Party! 6:45-8:00pm:  Join us for a FREE dance party DJ'd by Ari and featuring some of the best social partner dance music in the world! (all new material he has collected from his recent travels)
       
       
      FRIDAY, Dec 23: 
      at Om Culture (just show up at the door)

      Join us for a special Fabulous Friday Holiday Dance DJ'd by Ari and featuring some of the best swing, waltz, ballroom, blues, and Latin dance music you will hear, collected from Ari's recent travels abroad!

      7:00-7:30pm:  FREE Intro Pre-Dance Lesson   
      7:30-9:30pm:  Fab Friday Social Dance Party 
      9:30-11:00pm:  Late Night Lyrical Blues & Fusion Set  



      FRIDAY, Jan 13 & 27: 
      at Om Culture (just show up at the door)
      NEW 2023 Fab Friday "Focus On..." Dance Format

      Join us for a new year of Fabulous Friday Dances DJ'd by Ari and featuring some of the best swing, waltz, ballroom, blues, and Latin dance music you will hear, collected from Ari's recent travels abroad!

       In our new 2023 format, we will focus each night's lesson and approximately 1/3 of the 7:30-9:30pm DJ'd songs on a particular style of dance such as swing, waltz, blues, etc. (Sunday's NEW weekly Om Culture Dances will have a more evenly distributed general mix -- see below)  Themes for January will be:  Jan 13 "Mostly Swing"; Jan 27 "Mostly Waltz"

      7:00-7:30pm:  FREE Intro Pre-Dance Lesson   
      7:30-9:30pm:  Fab Friday Social Dance Party 
      9:30-11:00pm:  Late Night Lyrical Blues & Fusion Set 
       


      SUNDAY, Jan 8, 15, 22, & 29: 
      at Om Culture (just show up at the door)

      Join us for a new Sunday Social Dance Series every Sunday at Om Culture beginning in January.  Start with a one hour intro lesson in dance & connection (each week will feature a different dance style and different teacher/DJ), followed by a guided practica/dance where you can get one-on-one coaching from the instructor!  Ari will be teaching/DJ'ing Jan 15 & 29

      7:00-8:00pm: Intro Dance Lesson (themes vary weekly)
      8:00-10:00pm: Sunday Social Dance Party 
       

      WEEKEND ITINERARY

      A Friday night lesson & dance; a Saturday & Sunday workshop with Ari & Jodi, and great opportunities for fun variety dances on all three nights! (see the schedule below) 

      LEVELS FOR CLASSES:  "Beg, Int, Adv" -- The Friday pre-dance NC2S lesson will be beginning level and will introduce steps we will be blending into our Sun int/adv level NC2S workshops.  The Sat & Sun morning/afternoon workshops will be int/adv level and will quickly review all the basics but move faster than a beginning class. 

      All classes, workshops, and dances will be at Om Culture (2210 N Pacific St, Seattle), except for the Saturday night dance at the Leif Erikson

      *COVID NOTE:  COVID Vax/Boosters are  recommended but not mandatory; masks are optional


      --------------------------  SCHEDULE ---------------------------


       Friday, Jan 20th 



      Pre-Dance Lesson: "Night Club 2-Step Basics & Review!"  

           TIME:  7:00 - 8:00pm

      Learn the basics of Night Club 2-Step, plus some fun moves that we will be blending into our Sunday "NC2S" int/adv workshop at Om Culture.  Perfect for beg/int level 



      DANCE: "Fabulous Friday Variety Dance & Late Night Lyrical Blues & Fusion!"  

           TIME:  8:00 - 10:00pm:  Mixed Variety Dance 

               10:00-11:30pm:  Late Night Lyrical Blues & Fusion

      Join us for a fabulous mix of toe-tapping tunes and wonderful new music that Ari has collected from his recent travels throughout Europe & Israel -- swing, waltz, blues, WCS, NC2S, ballroom, Latin, and more!  The mixed variety session runs from 8-10pm.  After that we lower the lights and ease into our more lyrical set that's perfect for blues, fusion, NC2S, tango, WCS, and more -- lovely, relaxing, inspiring 

      LOCATION:  Om Culture, 2210 N Pacific St, Seattle, WA

      COST: $15 for lesson & dance, or for dance only (cash, PayPal, or Venmo at the door)





       Saturday, Jan 21st 


      SESSION 1:  "Fun, New Winter Waltz Variations"  

           TIME:  10:00am-12:00pm (Doors open at 9:45am)

      Learn some fabulous new waltz moves that Ari is bringing back from the winter Waltz Ball  season in Europe for your dancing pleasure -- Not to be missed!   Perfect for int/adv level dancers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of Cross-Step Waltz.  

      LOCATION:  Om Culture, 2210 N Pacific St, Seattle, WA


      -----  AFTERNOON BREAK  -----  


       Dance #2:   Saturday Night Dance w/ Northwest Dance Network:

      Join us for the NWDN dance at the Leif Erikson. Dancing to the live music of Dina Blade!

           TIME:  Beginning Lesson 7-8, Dance 8:00 - 11:00pm

           LOCATION: Leif Erikson Hall, 2245 NW 57th St, Seattle, WA 98107

           COST:  $20

        

        

       Sunday, Jan 22nd 

      SESSION 2:  Night Club 2-Step, with a Twist!  

           TIME:  1:30-3:30pm (Doors open at 1:20pm)

           

      Learn some fun new NC2S moves and combinations that Ari recently taught in Europe which celebrate a "twist" variation and integrate a variety of dance styles - beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always. Perfect for non-novice beg/int/adv level NC2S-ers.  CLICK HERE to see an example of "blended" NC2S from Jodi and Ari's last Om Culture workshop.


                               -----  AFTERNOON BREAK  -----  


       Sunday Night "C2C" Variety Dance at Om Culture

      • 7:00pm: Doors Open
      • 7:15-8:00pm:  Intro Dance Lesson with Lilli Ann Carey (Topic TBA)
      • 8:00-10:00pm:  Om Sunday Variety Dance featuring a wide range of musical styles (swing, blues, waltz, wcs, NC2S, ballroom, Latin, and more), DJ's by Lilli Ann 
        • LOCATION:  Om Culture
        • COST:  $20 (at the door, cash/PayPal/Venmo), or $15 (with Om Culture Punch Card)




      UPCOMING FRIDAY DANCES for 2022      :       

      • Jan 14th (2nd Fri)       LESSON: "American Foxtrot"
      • Jan 28th (4th Fri)        LESSON: "Swing"
      • Feb 11th (2nd Fri)    *Valentine Party!  LESSON: "Romantic Rumba"
      • Feb 25th (4th Fri)       LESSON:  "Cross-Step Waltz"
      • Mar 11th (2nd Fri)      LESSON: Intro to "Boogie Woogie"
      • Mar 25th (4th Fri)       LESSON: "1-Step"
      • Apr 8th (2nd Fri)         LESSON: "Foxtrot" - Part of Ari & Jodi's Dance Workshop Weekend
      • Apr 22nd (4th Fri)        LESSON: "Night Club 2-Step" (with Ari & Jodi)
      • May 13th (2nd Fri)      LESSON: "Rockin' the Rumba" (7-8pm) Part of Ari & Jodi's Dance Weekend
      • May 27th (4th Fri)      *NO DANCE TONIGHT due to Folklife Festival)
      • June 10th (2nd Fri)       LESSON: "Salsa meets the Blues"
      • June 24th (4th Fri)       LESSON:  "Summer Blues"
      • July 8th (2nd Fri)          LESSON: "Cha Cha"
      • July 22nd (4th Fri)       *NO DANCE TONIGHT due to private event rental  
      • July 29th (5th Fri)      LESSON: "Floating Box-Step Waltz (with Zachariah)"
      • Aug 12th (2nd Fri)        LESSON: "Intro to Traveling Blues (with Zachariah)"
      • Aug 26th (4th Fri)        LESSON: "Musicality 101 (with Zachariah)"
      • Sept 9th (2nd Fri)         *NO DANCE TONIGHT due to special Dancing 'Til Dusk Fundraiser 
      • Sept 23rd (4th Fri)        *NO DANCE TONIGHT due to private event rental  
      • Sept 30th (5th Fri)        LESSON: "Cross-Step Waltz
      • Oct 14th (2nd Fri)           LESSON: Special 7:00-8pm lesson with Ari & Jodi:"Foxtrot"
      • Oct 28th (4th Fri)         *NO DANCE TONIGHT due to private event rental 
      • Nov 11th (2nd Fri)       *NO DANCE TONIGHT due to private event rental 
      • Nov 25th (4th Fri)       Heber's Post-Thanksgiving Potluck and Dance (bring yummy food!).  No evening dance that night
      • Dec 9th (2nd Fri)        *NO DANCE TONIGHT due to private event rental 
      • Dec 23rd (4th Fri)       *Holiday Party!   LESSON: "Swing"

      UPCOMING FRIDAY DANCES for 2023: 

      • Jan 13th (2nd Fri)        FOCUS ON: "Swing"
      • Jan 20th (3rd Fri)         Special Jodi & Ari Dance Weekend - NC2S lesson & Dance
      • Jan 27th (4th Fri)          *NO DANCE TONIGHT due to Masquerade Ball @ Century Ballroom)
      • Feb 10th (2nd Fri)       *TBA
      • Feb 24th (4th Fri)         *TBA
      • Mar 10th (2nd Fri)       *TBA
      • Mar 24th (4th Fri)         FOCUS ON: "Night Club 2-Step"
      • Apr 7th (2nd Fri)          *TBA
      • Apr 21st (4th Fri)          *TBA
      • May 12th (2nd Fri)       *TBA
      • May 26th (4th Fri)         *NO DANCE TONIGHT due to Folklife Festival)
      • June 9th (2nd Fri)          *TBA
      • June 23rd (4th Fri)        FOCUS ON:  "Blues"
      • July 7th (2nd Fri)            (Seattle Summer Dance Festival!)  FOCUS ON: "Waltz"
      • July 21st (4th Fri)        *TBA

      Please join us for
      Ari & Jodi's
      Winter Workshop Weekend
      Jan 20-21, 2023 (Fri-Sat)  

       Friday, Jan 20th 

      • 7:00-8:00pm: SPECIAL PRE-DANCE LESSON: Night Club 2-Step Essentials!   
      • 8:00-11:00+pm: "Fabulous Friday" Mixed Dance & Late Night Lyric Session    

       Saturday, Jan 21st 

      • 10:00am-12:00pm: WORKSHOP: Night Club 2-Step with a Twist!  

       Sunday, Jan 22nd   

      • Sunday Night "C2C" Variety Dance at Om Culture
        • 7:00-8:00pm: PRE-DANCE LESSON: TBA  
        • 8:00-10:00pm: "C2C" Mixed Dance, DJ'd by Lilli Ann Carey 

      LOCATION:  Om Culture, 2210 N, PAcific St, Seattle, WA

       CLICK HERE for Details


      Upcoming NW Dance Network

      ONE-OFF CLASSES

      with Ari

      Classes are held at the Swedish Club 
      (1920 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109)

        CLICK HERE to go to the Registration Page


      Sun, Jan 22 5-7pm (5-6:30 pm workshop, plus ½ hr guided practica): Fabulous Nc2s Blending


      “Blending” is the art of borrowing moves from one dance style and seamlessly incorporating them into another, something which Ari has been innovating and teaching for the past 20 years.  In this workshop, using Night Club 2-Step as our foundation, we'll show how you can harness moves from balboa, tango, and foxtrot to create something new and exciting!

      For non-novice beg/int/adv dancers (some knowledge of basic Nc2s and partnering expected)


      Sun, Jan 29  (5-6:30pm):  Fun with "Double-Pulse" Blues-Latin Fusion  

      Double-pulsing is an extremely versatile dance rhythm that borrows much of its esthetic from Latin music.  In this class we’ll cover the essential building-blocks of blues "single" and "double-pulse" stepping, then quickly move on to explore the more fun & creative combinations you can apply to blues, Latin, and pop music.  For non-novice beg/int/adv dancers (some knowledge of basic partnering expected)

      Winter 2023 Classes   

       "Intro to Bal-Swing"

            3 Wednesday's:  (Jan 11, 18, 25) six hours of class
      • 7:00-9:00pm:   "Intro to Balboa-Swing!" - Balboa is a delightful partnered swing dance from the 1920's & 30's, typically done to faster swing music, rags, and Charleston's.  Put a new "zip" & "pop" into your swing by adding some simple, fun, balboa steps and combos to your repertoire -- It's the perfect way to push the envelope into new swing territory and to learn to dance quietly & effortlessly to fast swing or jazz music! Perfect for beginners and for folks who have had some Balboa in the past but would like to brush up!  CLICK HERE to see an example of Bal-Swing.   

      • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants

      •                CLICK HERE for details & Registration


        "Intro to Lyrical Fusion"  
                   3 Thursday's:  (Jan 12, 19, 26) six hours of class

      • 7:00-9:00pm:   "Intro to Lyrical Fusion!" - 
      • Fusion allows you to take everything you know from all the dance styles you do, and emphasizes improvisation over steps, and musicality & playfulness over rote patterns (See demo below).  While it may look effortless, don't be deceived. There are LOTS of things to learn to make this happen fluidly and seamlessly, and that's the secret magic sauce we'll be talking about in class!  

      • 9:00-9:30pm:  Guided Practice for class participants

      •                CLICK HERE for details & Registration

      LINKS TO PREVIOUS WORKSHOPS: 
      • Santa Clara Dance Weekend, California (formerly "Stanford" Dance Weekend).  Click Here for  details and contact info.
      • "Dance Fusion Weekend" Denver/Boulder, Colorado.  Click Here for details and contact information
      • Hood River/Portland, Oregon.  Click Here for details and contact information
      • Friday Night Waltz, Palo Alto, California.  (Details coming soon)

      UPCOMING 
      DANCE-TRAVEL EVENTS!

      =====  2023 ===== 


      "Waltz Week in Vienna!"  

      Feb 19-26, 2023

      3 balls, 8 days, 1 amazing experience!

       Come join us in the city where it all began

       

      Waltz Week is the ultimate in elegant dance adventures -- a truly incredible travel, play, & workshop experience specifically designed for dancers who not only want to enjoy the elegance, beauty, and grandeur of waltz season in Vienna, but who would also love to do so in the company of a fun group of like-minded fellow travel-adventurers! 


      Plus, come early for the "Rock that Swing" Festival in Munich Feb 16-19, 2022. 

       

      Details and Registration at:

      www.waltzweekinvienna.com 




      Chacala (Mexico) Dance Week

      [SOLD OUT]  

      Apr 26 - May 3, 2023


      A truly incredible blend of travel, play, & learning! During Mexico Dance Week in Chacala, we use the seaside village of Chacala as our veritable playground -- relaxing, taking in the casual vibe, exploring the region's natural beauty, enjoying unique local dining & dancing opportunities, attending dance classes together, and spending a portion of each day engaged in some kind of fun outdoor 'adventure'.


      CLICK HERE to sign up!  





      Valencia, Spain: 

      Bal-Swing Week & Balboa Festival 

      (with Add-on Trip Opportunities to Mallorca and Barcelona)   

      May 20-28, 2023 


      We are eagerly looking forward to springtime in Valencia when the climate is ideal, the pool and paellero are open for use, and the city is celebrating its biggest Balboa festival of the year!  Come and join us for a fabulous week of dance and play. 


      We have lots of great activities and adventures in store for you! Included in the price are 5 nights of accommodations in a beautiful Spanish villa; over 10 hours of lessons with Ari & Christine; delicious cocktails and a welcome dinner when you arrive; dinner, dancing & sightseeing in Valencia; and dancing under the stars on our lovely poolside terrace with a view of the Spanish plains.  Save money with our early-bird special pricing.  Space is limited so sign up soon! 


      CLICK HERE for details and registration:  




        Alaska Dance Cruise

      plus "Dance Fest NW" Weekend  

      June 9-18, 2023 


      Join us Fri-Sun (June 9-11) in Seattle for a fabulous pre-cruise "Dance Fest NW Weekend", followed by a one-week Inside Passage Alaska Dance Cruise round-trip from from Seattle (June 11-18), and a fabulous after-party in Seattle following the cruise! (June 18)   


      The cruise will be onboard Holland America's majestic Westerdam, taking in the beauty and splendor of the Inside Passage, Alaska's spectacular Glacier Bay National Park, Ketchikan, Juneau, and more!  Spaces are going fast and the cruise will likely sell out, so sign up today!


      CLICK HERE to register.




      Danube "Bike, Barge, & Dance Cruise" 

      + Oktoberfest Lindy Exchange 

      (Munich, Germany)  

      mid-Sept, 2023 

       Details coming soon.... 





      San Miguel de Allende, Mexic0

      (Celebrating Halloween & "Day of the Dead") 

      Oct 25–Nov 3, 2023  

       

      This spectacular UNESCO site will be the perfect backdrop for our dance-travel adventures!  We will be there in time to celebrate 4 days of Halloween and the "Day of the Dead" where the whole town comes out in costume! We will also explore the hot springs of the region and the fabulous many music, art, and culinary offerings that San Miguel has to offer -- not to be missed!


      CLICK HERE to sign up 

      (Register today, space is limited!)




      =====  2024 ===== 


      New Orleans "French Quarter Festival"

       Weekend + Caribbean Dance Cruise  

      April, 2024 

       Details coming soon.... 




      ====================================

      ====================================

      ====================================



      *THE FOLLOWING EVENTS HAVE BEEN POSTPONED:  

      We will let you know the rescheduled dates once we know more ourselves....

      Join us in beautiful BC:

      [New Dates TBA]

       "Harrison Hot Springs 

         Dance & Spa Retreat" 

      Details & Registration at TheDanceSpa.com 

      Join Ari & company in beautiful British Columbia for our 7th annual dance & workshop retreat in this historic lakeside setting -- with live music & dancing, hot springs, and special guest instructor Sharon Sebo from Kelowna, B.C.      


      Join us in Seattle:

      [New Dates TBA]

       "Waltz Fest NW" 

      Join dancers from Seattle, Portland, Vancouver (B.C.), and from across the country for our 4th annual "Waltz Fest NW!"-- celebrating our love of the waltz, the waltz community, and the diversity of the NW dance organizers, teachers, and venues that promote and support social waltzing within their dance line up.  Details from 2019 at www.waltzfestnw.com (2022 details still pending) (Special EARLY BIRD PRICING will be available for first dozen leads and follows to register) 


      Upcoming 


      Om Culture Dances


      Dances are held at Om Culture 
      (2210 N. Pacific St., Seattle, WA 98103)
      Just come on down - pay at the door!

      CLICK HERE for pricing and details



      2nd & 4th Friday's
       

      Next Dance: Feb 24 (no dance Feb 10): 
      at Om Culture (just show up at the door)
      No dance Jan 27th due to Masquerade Ball at the Century Ballroom
      No dance Feb 10th due to previous room rental

      NEW 2023 Fab Friday "Focus On..." Dance Format

       In our new 2023 format, we will focus each night's lesson and approximately 1/3 of the 7:30-9:30pm DJ'd songs on a particular style of dance such as swing, waltz, blues, etc. (Sunday's NEW weekly Om Culture Dances will have a more evenly distributed general mix -- see below)  Themes for January will be:  Jan 13 "Mostly Swing"; Jan 20 "Mostly NC2S"
      • 7:00-7:30pm:  FREE Intro Pre-Dance Lesson   
      • 7:30-9:30pm:  Fab Friday Social Dance Party 
      • 9:30-11:00pm:  Late Night Lyrical Blues & Fusion Set 
       


      1st & 3rd Sunday's


      Next Dances: Feb 5 & 19, Mar 5 & 19: 
      at Om Culture (just show up at the door)

      Join us for a new Sunday Social Dance Series every 1st and 3rd Sunday at Om Culture.  Start with a one 1/2 hour intro lesson in dance & connection (each time will feature a different dance style and different teacher/DJ), followed by a guided practica/dance where you can get one-on-one coaching from the instructor!  Ari will be teaching a really fun "Intro to Lyrical Fusion" lesson Feb 5 before the dance
      • 7:00-7:30pm: Intro Dance Lesson (themes vary weekly)
      • 7:30-9:30pm: Sunday Social Dance Party 
      • 9:30+pm: DJ's Choice (optional) 
       


      LAST CALL!

       Staterooms are booking fast and only a few remain!  

       

      Join us for this fabulous Dance Cruise to Alaska -- Take advantage of our amazing Group rate! 


      You will never be able to sail again with these prices!  You will not only enjoy delightful high-quality accommodations with first class service, and excellent food, you will also receive $25 onboard credit, and right now  - $100 savings!

       

      Where else can you go for 7 days and pay this little for all you can eat, sleep in a great stateroom, dance with wonderful dancers, and have fabulous entertainment available?  


      See below for more info and click REGISTER to book now!


      **PLEASE NOTE:  In order to keep our lead-follow balance, all single follows will be placed on a wait list.  Single leads and lead-follow pairs can still get in right away. Single follows, please DO register if you would like to attend and we will try to get you off the wait list as soon as possible.



      Danube "Bike, Barge, & Dance Cruise" 

      + Oktoberfest Lindy Exchange Add-On

      (Munich, Germany)  

      mid-Sept, 2023 

       Details coming soon.... 



      Valencia, Spain: 

      Bal-Swing Week & Balboa Festival 

      (with Add-on Trip Opportunities to Mallorca and Barcelona)   

      May 20-28, 2023 


      We are eagerly looking forward to springtime in Valencia when the climate is ideal, the pool and paellero are open for use, and the city is celebrating its biggest Balboa festival of the year!  Come and join us for a fabulous week of dance and play. 


      We have lots of great activities and adventures in store for you! Included in the price are 5 nights of accommodations in a beautiful Spanish villa; over 10 hours of lessons with Ari & Christine; delicious cocktails and a welcome dinner when you arrive; dinner, dancing & sightseeing in Valencia; and dancing under the stars on our lovely poolside terrace with a view of the Spanish plains.  Save money with our early-bird special pricing.  Space is limited so sign up soon! 


      CLICK HERE for details and registration:  


      January "Small-Group" Intensives

      "Small Group" classes are limited in size to allow for the most one-on-one personal teaching and improvement! Plus we have a really fun wine & cheese social & dance practica following each lesson -- People LOVE these!

        

      Classes are held at Ari's Home/Studio 

      (Must pre-register for directions)

      Join us for our 

      "Fabulous Friday" Variety Dances (& Late Night Lyrical Blues & Fusion)

      Every 2nd & 4th Friday  CLICK HERE for dates & details

      -- AND Om Cx's NEW --"Sunday Evening Social Dances" (each week a new teacher and lesson!)  

      Every Sunday  CLICK HERE for dates & details


       Fabulous Friday

      VARIETY DANCES, and 

      LATE NIGHT FUSION & BLUES!

      (WITH FREE LESSON BEFOREHAND)

      PLEASE NOTE: Om Culture FRIDAY Dances have an amended one-off summer schedule.  Check the calendar below for times.


      - AND -

      New 1st and 3rd  

      OM SUNDAY 
      EVENING VARIETY DANCES!
      (WITH 1/2 LESSON BEFOREHAND)
      Starting January, 2023


      @ Om Culture  (See the Logistics Below)

      PLEASE NOTE: Om Culture Sunday Dances are currently on hiatus for the summer.  Check back again this Fall for an updated schedule


      1st & 3rd

       Sunday 

      "Mixed Variety Dances"

       It's another wonderful opportunity to enjoy a wide array of social-dance music at Om Culture.  A different local instructor and DJ will be featured each week.  Enjoy a beautiful mix of social-dance music such as Swing, Fox, Waltz, Ballroom, Latin, WCS, nc2s, 1-step tunes, and more!

      -------- PLUS---------

      "COME FOR THE PRE-DANCE LESSON!"

      Each week a different local teacher will offer an introductory lesson in one style of dance.  It's the perfect way to learn a new style, or to brush up on the basics if you are already familiar with the steps.

      CLICK HERE for the Om Culture FaceBook SCHEDULE

      One-Off Fabulous Friday Dances

      Introducing our new "Focus On..." Format for 2023 

        Enjoy the perfect mix of Swing, Fox, Waltz, WCS, NC2S, Ballroom & Latin tunes, plus a healthy smattering of other dance styles (blues, fusion, 1-step, zydeco,  etc). Each dance will feature a focussed theme (ie, "Swing" or "Waltz") where the lesson and roughly 1/3 of the music played in the first set will be in that style.  

       Doors open at 6:45pm.  Ari teaches a fun all-levels class from 7:00-7:30pm (FREE with admission to the dance) followed by a wonderful mix of music and dance tunes for your pleasure and enjoyment. 

      -----------------

      "LATE NIGHT FUSION SET"

      Enjoy late night lyrical blues & micro-fusion after 9:30pm.  So much fun!

      **PLEASE NOTE:  In order to keep our lead-follow balance, all single follows will be placed on a wait list.  Single leads and lead-follow pairs can still get in right away. Single follows, please DO register if you would like to attend and we will try to get you off the wait list as soon as possible.

      UPCOMING 
      DANCE-TRAVEL EVENTS!

      "Like" our Facebook Page to keep updated on all of our dance travel adventure opportunities:  CLICK HERE  join!


      =====  SIGN UP TODAY  ===== 

      =====  2023 ===== 


        Alaska Dance Cruise

      plus "Dance Fest NW" Weekend  

      June 9-18, 2023 


      ==> SOLD OUT <==


      Join us Fri-Sun (June 9-11) in Seattle for a fabulous pre-cruise "Dance Fest NW Weekend", followed by a one-week Inside Passage Alaska Dance Cruise round-trip from from Seattle (June 11-18), and a fabulous after-party in Seattle following the cruise! (June 18).  You can do 1, 2, or all 3 as you wish!


      The cruise will be onboard Holland America's majestic Westerdam, taking in the beauty and splendor of the Inside Passage, Alaska's spectacular Glacier Bay National Park, Ketchikan, Juneau, and more!  Spaces are going fast and the cruise will likely sell out, so sign up today!


      CLICK HERE to register.




      San Miguel de Allende, Mexic0

      (Celebrating Halloween & "Day of the Dead") 

      Oct 25–Nov 3, 2023  

       

      This spectacular UNESCO site will be the perfect backdrop for our dance-travel adventures!  We will be there in time to celebrate 4 days of Halloween and the "Day of the Dead" where the whole town comes out in costume! We will also explore the hot springs of the region and the fabulous many music, art, and culinary offerings that San Miguel has to offer -- not to be missed!


      CLICK HERE to sign up 

      (Register today, space is limited!)




      Chacala (Mexico) Dance Week

      Nov 28 - Dec 5, 2023

      Early Bird Registration is Open Now!  


      A truly incredible blend of travel, play, & learning! During Mexico Dance Week in Chacala, we use the seaside village of Chacala as our veritable playground -- relaxing, taking in the casual vibe, exploring the region's natural beauty, enjoying unique local dining & dancing opportunities, attending dance classes together, and spending a portion of each day engaged in some kind of fun outdoor 'adventure'.


      CLICK HERE for details and registration



      =====  2024 ===== 


      New Orleans "French Quarter Festival"

       Weekend + Caribbean Dance Cruise  

      April 11-20, 2024 


      Part 1 of the trip will feature four nights at the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel in New Orleans during the world-famous French Quarter Festival. Part 2 of the trip will be five nights onboard the Carnival Valor on their Western Caribbean trip, with stops in the Yucatan and Cozumel.


      CLICK HERE for details and registration



      Galapagos Islands Dance Cruise

      (Check it off your bucket list today) 

      May 14-23, 2024  

       

      It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Galapagos on a beautiful deluxe yacht with a happy group of fellow dancer-adventurers — a serious bucket-list trip for most of us!  Only 3 spots left!


      CLICK HERE to sign up 

      (Register today, space is limited!)



      ====================================

      ====================================

      ====================================



      *THE FOLLOWING EVENTS HAVE BEEN POSTPONED:  

      We will let you know the rescheduled dates once we know more ourselves....

      Join us in beautiful BC:

      [New Dates TBA]

       "Harrison Hot Springs 

         Dance & Spa Retreat" 

      Details & Registration at TheDanceSpa.com 

      Join Ari & company in beautiful British Columbia for our 7th annual dance & workshop retreat in this historic lakeside setting -- with live music & dancing, hot springs, and special guest instructor Sharon Sebo from Kelowna, B.C.      


      Join us in Seattle:

      [New Dates TBA]

       "Waltz Fest NW" 

      Join dancers from Seattle, Portland, Vancouver (B.C.), and from across the country for our 4th annual "Waltz Fest NW!"-- celebrating our love of the waltz, the waltz community, and the diversity of the NW dance organizers, teachers, and venues that promote and support social waltzing within their dance line up.  Details from 2019 at www.waltzfestnw.com (2022 details still pending) (Special EARLY BIRD PRICING will be available for first dozen leads and follows to register) 


      Upcoming 


      Om Culture Dances


      Dances are held at Om Culture 
      (2210 N. Pacific St., Seattle, WA 98103)
      Just come on down - pay at the door!

      CLICK HERE for pricing and details



      2nd & 4th Friday's
       
      at Om Culture (just show up at the door)
      PLEASE NOTE:  We will NOT be holding dances regularly throughout the summer.
      Be sure to check our Dance Schedule to see the amended schedule.

      NEW 2023 Fab Friday "Focus On..." Dance Format

       In our new 2023 format, we will focus each night's lesson and approximately 1/3 of the 7:30-9:30pm DJ'd songs on a particular style of dance such as swing, waltz, blues, etc. 
      • 7:30-8:00pm:  FREE Intro Pre-Dance Lesson   
      • 8:00-9:30pm:  Fab Friday Social Dance Party 
      • 9:30-11:00pm:  Late Night Lyrical Blues & Fusion Set 

       


      UPCOMING 
      DANCE-TRAVEL EVENTS!


      =====  2023 ===== 




      San Miguel de Allende, Mexic0

      (Celebrating Their World-Famous "Day of the Dead" Festival) 

      Oct 25–Nov 3, 2023  

       

      This spectacular UNESCO site will be the perfect backdrop for our dance-travel adventures!  We will be there in time to celebrate 4 days of Halloween and the "Day of the Dead" where the whole town comes out in costume! We will also explore the hot springs of the region and the fabulous many music, art, and culinary offerings that San Miguel has to offer -- not to be missed!


      CLICK HERE to sign up 

      (Register today, space is limited!)




      Chacala (Mexico) Dance Week

      Nov 28 - Dec 5, 2023

       <- SOLD OUT-> 


      A truly incredible blend of travel, play, & learning! 

      During Mexico Dance Week in Chacala, we use the seaside village of Chacala as our veritable playground -- relaxing, taking in the casual vibe, exploring the region's natural beauty, enjoying unique local dining & dancing opportunities, attending dance classes together, and spending a portion of each day engaged in some kind of fun outdoor 'adventure'.  This year's theme is "Swinging the Blues with our Toes in the Sand"


      CLICK HERE for details and registration



      =====  2024 ===== 


      New Orleans "French Quarter Festival"

       Weekend + Caribbean Dance Cruise  

      April 11-20, 2024 


      Part 1 of the trip will feature four nights at the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel in New Orleans during the world-famous French Quarter Festival. Part 2 of the trip will be five nights onboard the Carnival Valor on their Western Caribbean trip, with stops in the Yucatan and Cozumel. Sign up for one or both parts.  It will be amazing!


      CLICK HERE for details and registration



      Galapagos Islands Dance Cruise

      (Check it off your bucket list today) 

      Aug 17-24, 2024  

       

      It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Galapagos on a beautiful deluxe yacht with a happy group of fellow dancer-adventurers — a serious bucket-list trip for anyone!  Only 3 spots left


      CLICK HERE to sign up 

      (Register today, space is limited!)



      Croatia Dance Cruise

      May 14-23, 2024  

       

      This trip features seven nights on board our privately chartered yacht as we explore the Croatian islands and coast, with plenty of opportunity for dancing, socializing, beach time, exploring, and play. It's all-inclusive with trips to the national parks and five city tours.


      CLICK HERE to sign up today! 



      Tronconos a la Playa!

      (Mexico)

      Nov 9-16, 2024  

       

      Come experience the true magic of Mexico in our brand new East Coast seaside venue. In addition to the daily dance classes and nightly dance parties  at our oceanfront boutique hotel, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy such activities as jungle hikes, beach-combing, horseback riding, eco tours, kayaking, swimming, surfing, dining out, visiting Mayan ruins, or exploring Ixtapa and the surrounding region -- all in the company of a fun group of like-minded fellow dancers & travel-adventurers!


      CLICK HERE to sign up today! 




      Sunday, Jan 28, 2024


      at The Swedish Club (1920 Dexter Ave N., Seattle, WA)



      Two Fabulous Dance Workshops 


      with Ari Levitt & Lessa Lamb 


      Ari & Lessa are world-class instructors with well-deserved reputations for their fun and informative classes and for their beautiful, flowing, and creative styles. This will be the perfect opportunity to catch them in Seattle teaching two amazing workshops


      1)  Fabulous Nightclub 2-Step Innovations

        • WHEN: Sunday, Jan 28, 4:30–6 PM
        • WHAT: Learn fun, innovative combinations from Ari’s library of moves and inventions — beautiful, flowing, and elegant as always . All welcome; no partner needed.
        • LEVEL: Non-novice Beg/Int/Adv (Prerequisite: comfort with basic nightclub 2-step left and right turns)
        • COST: Pre-registered $25; Walk-in: $30

       2)  The Art of Blues-Swing & Latin Blending 

        • WHEN: Sunday, Jan 28, 6–7:30 PM
        • WHAT: One of the funnest things to do is insert a few elements of tango or latin motion into your blues and swing dance.  This fun & informative class will help you to expand your repertoire a dozen-fold by teaching you exactly how to make those transitions and create fun new combinations borrowing from tango, salsa, and rumba. Not to be missed! All welcome - No partner needed.
        • LEVEL: Non-Novice (comfort with basic social dance expected) 
        • COST: Pre-registered $25; Walk-in: $30 

      UPCOMING FRIDAY DANCES for 2023: 

      • Jan 13th (2nd Fri)        FOCUS ON: "Swing"
      • Jan 20th (3rd Fri)         Special Jodi & Ari Dance Weekend - NC2S lesson & Dance
      • Jan 27th (4th Fri)          *NO DANCE due to Masquerade Ball @ Century Ballroom)
      • Feb 10th (2nd Fri)       FOCUS ON: "West Coast Swing"
      • Feb 24th (4th Fri)         Dance only (from 7:30-10:30pm) (no lesson tonight) DJ'd by Lilli Ann Carey
      • Mar 10th (2nd Fri)        FOCUS ON: "Fusion" -- Plus, Ari DJ's great music from his recent travels
      • Mar 24th (4th Fri)         FOCUS ON: "Night Club 2-Step"
      • Apr 14th (2nd Fri)        FOCUS ON: "Cha Cha - Rhumba Blending (The Classic 2-for-1 Dance)"
      • Apr 28th (4th Fri)          *NO DANCE TONIGHT
      • May 12th (2nd Fri)        *NO DANCE TONIGHT
      • May 26th (4th Fri)         *NO DANCE TONIGHT  (Go to the Folklife Festival)
      • June 9th (2nd Fri)           FOCUS ON: "Waltz Pivots"  (Join our SPECIAL Workshop Weekend)
      • June 23rd (4th Fri)        FOCUS ON:  "Blues in Counter-balance"
      • July 14th (2nd Fri)         FOCUS ON:  "Fun Swing Styling"
      • July 28th (4th Fri)        *NO DANCE TONIGHT
      • Aug 11th (2nd Fri)        *NO DANCE TONIGHT
      • Aug 25th (4th Fri)         *NO DANCE TONIGHT 
      • Sept 8th (2nd Fri)          FOCUS ON:  "Swivels"
      • Sept 22nd (4th Fri)        *NO DANCE TONIGHT
      • Oct 13th (2nd Fri)          *NO DANCE TONIGHT
      • Oct 27th (4th Fri)         *NO DANCE TONIGHT
      • Nov 10th (2nd Fri)       *NO DANCE TONIGHT
      • Nov 17th (3rd Fri)          FOCUS ON:  "Latin Dance Roots", + great international music set
      • Nov 24th (4th Fri, 1-4pm)  Heber's Post-Thanksgiving Gratitude Dance (FREE!)  
      • Dec 8th (2nd Fri, 7:30-11pm)  
        • Elnah Jordan LIVE at Om Culture: Soul-stirring vocalist sings gospel, jazz, blues, R&B with full band.  CLICK HERE for details 
      • Dec 24th (SUNDAY)   
        • SPECIAL: "Om For The Holidays!" Om Culture Dessert Potluck Holiday Party!  
      • Dec 29th (5th Fri)   
        •  SPECIAL: "Dancing Through The Decades" Party with a fun retrospective music review! 
      • Dec 31st (SUNDAY)   SPECIAL: New Years Eve Dance at Om Culture. CLICK HERE for details