Friday, November 13, 2009
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Clubs & Parties Review: Alhambra Salsa Tuesdays ****
This is a continuing blog series reviewing the salsa scene in Chicago, with emphasis in places where UofC students would go to dance. Please feel free to comment and add as much as you wish. If you want to suggest places to review, please write to salsa at uchicago dot edu and we'll try to grant your wish as soon as we can. Enjoy and keep dancing
Alhambra has salsa every Tuesday night, and it is worth going! In my opinion, Alhambra is the most beautiful venue for salsa dancing: there is a very large dancing space, a high-quality wooden floor, and effective air conditioning. The decor is Spanish/Moroccan themed and very ornate. Drinks and water are expensive ($5 for a bottled water), but you can sneak in your own water.
The dance level is very good: there are always many advanced dancers at Alhambra, and often watching can be as fun as dancing. There are a few beginners as well, but if you're a beginner you might be intimidated to ask strangers to dance since they are likely to be at least intermediate.
The music is a mixed of old and new salsa, combined with small bits of bachata, chacha and merengue. Alhambra occasionally hosts a live band. These nights are more crowded and the cover charge is slightly higher, but the live music is definitely worth it. The band sits up on a stage so they're easy to watch and they really command the crowd.
In a nutshell: Alhambra Salsa Tuesdays
- Location: 1240 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL
- Hours: 8pm-2am
- Admission: $10 but if you register in the guest list here before 4pm on Tuesdays you get half price entry.
- 21+ after 9pm
- Ideal for intermediate-advanced, OK for beginners
- 4 of 4 stars: Best Salsa Experience.
Joy Heafner
Legend:
* : Please don't go
**: If you really need to dance, you can go there...
***: Good overall
****: Excellent! Best salsa experience
Alhambra has salsa every Tuesday night, and it is worth going! In my opinion, Alhambra is the most beautiful venue for salsa dancing: there is a very large dancing space, a high-quality wooden floor, and effective air conditioning. The decor is Spanish/Moroccan themed and very ornate. Drinks and water are expensive ($5 for a bottled water), but you can sneak in your own water.
The dance level is very good: there are always many advanced dancers at Alhambra, and often watching can be as fun as dancing. There are a few beginners as well, but if you're a beginner you might be intimidated to ask strangers to dance since they are likely to be at least intermediate.
The music is a mixed of old and new salsa, combined with small bits of bachata, chacha and merengue. Alhambra occasionally hosts a live band. These nights are more crowded and the cover charge is slightly higher, but the live music is definitely worth it. The band sits up on a stage so they're easy to watch and they really command the crowd.
In a nutshell: Alhambra Salsa Tuesdays
- Location: 1240 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL
- Hours: 8pm-2am
- Admission: $10 but if you register in the guest list here before 4pm on Tuesdays you get half price entry.
- 21+ after 9pm
- Ideal for intermediate-advanced, OK for beginners
- 4 of 4 stars: Best Salsa Experience.
Joy Heafner
Legend:
* : Please don't go
**: If you really need to dance, you can go there...
***: Good overall
****: Excellent! Best salsa experience
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Salsa Fall Party!
Join us for our FIRST Salsa Party of the Quarter! We'll spin Salsa, Bachata, Chacha & Merengue!
This Saturday, October 24th in the Burton-Judson Courts (corner of 60th & Ellis)
Free lesson at 7pm to start off the night.
Dancing starts at 7:30pm until 10:30pm.
Cost: $3 with UoCID. $5 all others!
RSVP required to attend the event. To add you and your friends to the guest list, click here to add them
Looking forward to dance with you!
This Saturday, October 24th in the Burton-Judson Courts (corner of 60th & Ellis)
Free lesson at 7pm to start off the night.
Dancing starts at 7:30pm until 10:30pm.
Cost: $3 with UoCID. $5 all others!
RSVP required to attend the event. To add you and your friends to the guest list, click here to add them
Looking forward to dance with you!
Thursday, October 01, 2009
BLDA Fall Schedule Part 1 announced!
Hey everyone,
Here's our schedule for the quarter for our Salsa, Ballroom, and Latin Dances. If you have any questions feel free to email me back any time. These are listed by type. However if you would like to see the calendar by day, please check our Lessons Page.
Salsa
Beginning Salsa I with James and Sheila
Monday 10/5, 10/12, 10/19 and 11/2
Cost: $16 with UCID, $20 all others ($5 to try the first lesson only)
No partner needed.
No dance experience required.
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club & Library (check date)
Continuing Salsa I with James and Tanya
Monday 10/5, 10/12, 10/19 and 11/2
Cost: $16 with UCID, $20 all others ($5 to try the first lesson only)
No partner needed.
Requires Completion of Beginning Salsa I & II
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club & Library (check date)
Open Salsa!
Monday 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 11/2, 11/16, 11/23 and 11/30
FREE
Come practice your Salsa and Latin Dancing!
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club & Library (check date)
Intermediate Salsa I with Alex and Joy
Monday 10/5, 10/12, 10/19 and 11/2
Cost: $12 with UCID, $15 all others ($5 to try the first lesson only)
No partner needed.
Requires Completion of Intermediate Salsa I.
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club & Library (check date)
Performance Salsa:
Auditions on 10/15.
Cost: $25 with UCID, $35 all others.
Requirements: Completion of Intermediate I & II or instructor approval.
Please note practice will be on Thursdays (10/15, 10/22, 11/5, 11/19) and Sundays (11/1, 11/8, 11/15, 11/22, 11/29)
Location: Thursdays in Cloister Club, Sundays in West Lounge
Ballroom & Latin:
Sunday Nov 4:
7-8pm Free Cha Cha workshop with Sheng, HQ, and Lisa!
Location: Ida Noyes Theater
8-9pm Intermediate Competitive Team Try Outs!
Come get information about the Competitive Ballroom Team.
If you're interested in joining the intermediate team, make sure to come to try outs!
Location: Ida Noyes Theater
Beginning Ballroom Sequence
Come dance Waltz and Tango with Sasha, Sheng and Olga!
Cost: $12 with UCID, $15 all others ($5 to try the first class)
Thursday 10/15 & 10/22
Time: 7-8:30
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club
Social Ballroom with Sheng, HQ and Lisa
Sunday Nov 1, 8 15, 22, and 29
Cost: $40 with UCID, $50 all Others
Time: 6-8pm
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club
Beginning Latin with Sheng, HQ and Lisa
Sunday Nov 1, 8 15, and 22
Cost: $32 with UCID, $40 all others
Time: 6-8pm
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club
Jive Workshop!
Thursday Nov 19, Ida Noyes Cloister Club
Instructor TBD
Cost: $5 with UCID, $8 all others.
Google Calendar:
All the above information and more is available on the google calendar available at:
http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=n6afa3u6ce58ctuppi3qpidp4s%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago
Quarterly Membership:
Quarterly membership is available. It is $60 for with UCID, $70 all others. Membership can admit you to all classes, workshops, and parties. However, this does not mean you can skip sequences. Memberships may be revoked if membership rules are broken.
Memberships can only be purchased during the first 3 weeks of the quarter. All membership requests must be made with Gal Oppenheimer either in person or via email to blda@uchicago.edu. You cannot purchase a membership from any other instructor.
Proper Attire:
Clothing: Please wear comfortable clothing. Skirts or dresses are not required.
Shoes: We strongly recommend you dance in heels (for girls) and shoes with little traction (for guys). This is not required, but recommended. However, no flip-flops or shoes with an open back. This is due to safety concerns. If you dance in shoes with an open back, you will most likely severely twist your ankle. If you spin in flip-flops, you can injure yourself and on occasion break your flip-flops.
If you would like information on where to purchase dance shoes, please speak to any of the instructors.
Here's our schedule for the quarter for our Salsa, Ballroom, and Latin Dances. If you have any questions feel free to email me back any time. These are listed by type. However if you would like to see the calendar by day, please check our Lessons Page.
Salsa
Beginning Salsa I with James and Sheila
Monday 10/5, 10/12, 10/19 and 11/2
Cost: $16 with UCID, $20 all others ($5 to try the first lesson only)
No partner needed.
No dance experience required.
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club & Library (check date)
Continuing Salsa I with James and Tanya
Monday 10/5, 10/12, 10/19 and 11/2
Cost: $16 with UCID, $20 all others ($5 to try the first lesson only)
No partner needed.
Requires Completion of Beginning Salsa I & II
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club & Library (check date)
Open Salsa!
Monday 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 11/2, 11/16, 11/23 and 11/30
FREE
Come practice your Salsa and Latin Dancing!
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club & Library (check date)
Intermediate Salsa I with Alex and Joy
Monday 10/5, 10/12, 10/19 and 11/2
Cost: $12 with UCID, $15 all others ($5 to try the first lesson only)
No partner needed.
Requires Completion of Intermediate Salsa I.
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club & Library (check date)
Performance Salsa:
Auditions on 10/15.
Cost: $25 with UCID, $35 all others.
Requirements: Completion of Intermediate I & II or instructor approval.
Please note practice will be on Thursdays (10/15, 10/22, 11/5, 11/19) and Sundays (11/1, 11/8, 11/15, 11/22, 11/29)
Location: Thursdays in Cloister Club, Sundays in West Lounge
Ballroom & Latin:
Sunday Nov 4:
7-8pm Free Cha Cha workshop with Sheng, HQ, and Lisa!
Location: Ida Noyes Theater
8-9pm Intermediate Competitive Team Try Outs!
Come get information about the Competitive Ballroom Team.
If you're interested in joining the intermediate team, make sure to come to try outs!
Location: Ida Noyes Theater
Beginning Ballroom Sequence
Come dance Waltz and Tango with Sasha, Sheng and Olga!
Cost: $12 with UCID, $15 all others ($5 to try the first class)
Thursday 10/15 & 10/22
Time: 7-8:30
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club
Social Ballroom with Sheng, HQ and Lisa
Sunday Nov 1, 8 15, 22, and 29
Cost: $40 with UCID, $50 all Others
Time: 6-8pm
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club
Beginning Latin with Sheng, HQ and Lisa
Sunday Nov 1, 8 15, and 22
Cost: $32 with UCID, $40 all others
Time: 6-8pm
Location: Ida Noyes Cloister Club
Jive Workshop!
Thursday Nov 19, Ida Noyes Cloister Club
Instructor TBD
Cost: $5 with UCID, $8 all others.
Google Calendar:
All the above information and more is available on the google calendar available at:
http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=n6afa3u6ce58ctuppi3qpidp4s%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago
Quarterly Membership:
Quarterly membership is available. It is $60 for with UCID, $70 all others. Membership can admit you to all classes, workshops, and parties. However, this does not mean you can skip sequences. Memberships may be revoked if membership rules are broken.
Memberships can only be purchased during the first 3 weeks of the quarter. All membership requests must be made with Gal Oppenheimer either in person or via email to blda@uchicago.edu. You cannot purchase a membership from any other instructor.
Proper Attire:
Clothing: Please wear comfortable clothing. Skirts or dresses are not required.
Shoes: We strongly recommend you dance in heels (for girls) and shoes with little traction (for guys). This is not required, but recommended. However, no flip-flops or shoes with an open back. This is due to safety concerns. If you dance in shoes with an open back, you will most likely severely twist your ankle. If you spin in flip-flops, you can injure yourself and on occasion break your flip-flops.
If you would like information on where to purchase dance shoes, please speak to any of the instructors.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Map of Salsa Spots in Chicago
Thanks to Katharine Bierce, we have a Google Map of the salsa spots in the Chicago Area.
View Salsa Spots in Chicago in a larger map
If you cannot see this link, you can open the link clicking here
View Salsa Spots in Chicago in a larger map
If you cannot see this link, you can open the link clicking here
If you want to suggest more places or add comments or links, please write to salsa at uchicago dot edu
Enjoy!
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Salsa Summer Schedule!
I'm pleased to announce the summer schedule of our salsa lessons! The lessons will have a workshop-like, self-contained format, starting at 7pm and lasting 90 minutes, with 30 minutes of free practice. All of them will be taught in Ida Noyes. Some days prior to each workshop we will provide a description, requirements and room where the class will be held.
here's the schedule:
Wednesday August 5- Sasha & Tanya (Spin/ Turn workshop?)
Monday August 10- Pranjal & Samantha (Afro-Cuban Body Movement)
Monday August 17- Felipe & Sheila(Bachata Workshop)
Monday August 24- Alex & Joy (Beginning/ Continuing Sequence)
Monday August 31- Antonio & Sheila (Rueda Workshop)
we'll have more info soon in the website and in facebook!
any questions please send them to martinj at uchicago.edu
Looking forward to see you and keep dancing!
here's the schedule:
Wednesday August 5- Sasha & Tanya (Spin/ Turn workshop?)
Monday August 10- Pranjal & Samantha (Afro-Cuban Body Movement)
Monday August 17- Felipe & Sheila(Bachata Workshop)
Monday August 24- Alex & Joy (Beginning/ Continuing Sequence)
Monday August 31- Antonio & Sheila (Rueda Workshop)
we'll have more info soon in the website and in facebook!
any questions please send them to martinj at uchicago.edu
Looking forward to see you and keep dancing!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Clubs & Parties Review: Latin Street Dancing studio Parties ***
We will start here a new blog series reviewing the salsa scene in Chicago, with emphasis in places where UofC students would go to dance. Please feel free to comment and add as much as you wish. If you want to suggest places to review, please write to salsa at uchicago dot edu and we'll try to grant your wish as soon as we can. Enjoy and keep dancing!
Last night we went to the New Studios Inauguration Party at Latin Street Dancing (LSD), located now in 215 W Ontario, a few blocks from its former location. The new place is huge, with two floors and very big rooms. They are still settling in, so at the time of the party the floors weren't finished, there were no mirrors in the dance studios and no air conditioner, but they expect to have everything in a short time.
LSD throws a studio party approx. every 4 weeks. They are all-ages so they are one of the main ways to salsa for our students under 21. Usually the party coincides with the end of their lesson sequence for the month, so there are a lot of beginner dancers and usually the people is very friendly and patient with the newcomers, although for more experienced dancers this can be a bit annoying. But in general there is space for everyone, since they like to divide the dancing in several rooms: Two for salsa (one room tends to be old-fashion salsa/mambo, the other more contemporary/recent tunes), and one room for the rest of latin dances (mostly merengue, bachata & cumbia), which accounts for a good balance and flow of people.
Another nice thing is that they tend to start with a free lesson (that is actually fun to be around for the begginers) at 9:30pm, and around 11pm they have a number of performances by the LSD students and their dance groups (advanced student & company, and a new pro group), as well as invited performers. It is always good to see that even at such different levels everyone is having a good time.
The old studio used to get very crowed really fast and in summers unbearably hot; even the air conditioner could not hold, but we hope with the new location those problems are gone. As for the dancers, in general there is a good level, but as it happens in general, the good dancers tend to dance within themselves, even though there's good patience with the beginners (more than in other places, i.e. clubs). The illumination is bright, so that affects the temperature of the room and the general 'ambiance' of the room
So if you are new to Salsa here's the place to be a little bolder and ask people to dance: you learn much more with better dancers. Also it has to be pointed out that even Salsa is very social by nature, in these parties people are more business than talk, but since they end up relatively early, some of the dancers (or new friends that are made) go to other clubs or bars to continue dancing in a more conversational environment. Usually these parties (how much you dance, with whom you dance) are a good barometer of your salsa level.
In a nutshell: Latin Street Dancing studio Parties
- Location: 215 W Ontario, Chicago.
- Hours: 9pm-2am (it really dies down by 1pm)
- For all ages
- Ideal for beginners, OK for advanced.
- 3 of 4 stars: Good Overall.
Felipe Marin.
Legend:
* : Please don't go
**: If you really need to dance, you can go there...
***: Good overall
****: Excellent! Best salsa experience
Last night we went to the New Studios Inauguration Party at Latin Street Dancing (LSD), located now in 215 W Ontario, a few blocks from its former location. The new place is huge, with two floors and very big rooms. They are still settling in, so at the time of the party the floors weren't finished, there were no mirrors in the dance studios and no air conditioner, but they expect to have everything in a short time.
LSD throws a studio party approx. every 4 weeks. They are all-ages so they are one of the main ways to salsa for our students under 21. Usually the party coincides with the end of their lesson sequence for the month, so there are a lot of beginner dancers and usually the people is very friendly and patient with the newcomers, although for more experienced dancers this can be a bit annoying. But in general there is space for everyone, since they like to divide the dancing in several rooms: Two for salsa (one room tends to be old-fashion salsa/mambo, the other more contemporary/recent tunes), and one room for the rest of latin dances (mostly merengue, bachata & cumbia), which accounts for a good balance and flow of people.
Another nice thing is that they tend to start with a free lesson (that is actually fun to be around for the begginers) at 9:30pm, and around 11pm they have a number of performances by the LSD students and their dance groups (advanced student & company, and a new pro group), as well as invited performers. It is always good to see that even at such different levels everyone is having a good time.
The old studio used to get very crowed really fast and in summers unbearably hot; even the air conditioner could not hold, but we hope with the new location those problems are gone. As for the dancers, in general there is a good level, but as it happens in general, the good dancers tend to dance within themselves, even though there's good patience with the beginners (more than in other places, i.e. clubs). The illumination is bright, so that affects the temperature of the room and the general 'ambiance' of the room
So if you are new to Salsa here's the place to be a little bolder and ask people to dance: you learn much more with better dancers. Also it has to be pointed out that even Salsa is very social by nature, in these parties people are more business than talk, but since they end up relatively early, some of the dancers (or new friends that are made) go to other clubs or bars to continue dancing in a more conversational environment. Usually these parties (how much you dance, with whom you dance) are a good barometer of your salsa level.
In a nutshell: Latin Street Dancing studio Parties
- Location: 215 W Ontario, Chicago.
- Hours: 9pm-2am (it really dies down by 1pm)
- For all ages
- Ideal for beginners, OK for advanced.
- 3 of 4 stars: Good Overall.
Felipe Marin.
Legend:
* : Please don't go
**: If you really need to dance, you can go there...
***: Good overall
****: Excellent! Best salsa experience
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Twitter + New Listhost
Good Afternoon Everyone,
While sitting here and procrastinating about my Final and Paper due tomorrow, I wanted to let everyone know about something new, and a small change.
Twitter:
We have decided to create a BLDA twitter which can be found by following BLDA_UChicago. We will be tweeting out whenever any instructor goes Salsa dancing downtown, as well as reminders about our lessons and events. If you have a twitter, follow us, if you don't, you can make one and then follow us (you can conveniently have the updates sent to you as an SMS).
Listhost:
In order to encapsulate the full features of the BLDA, we have decided to change our main listhost name from ballroom-dance@lists.uchicago.edu to blda-dance at lists dot uchicago dot edu. YOU DO NOT NEED TO DO ANYTHING if you are already receiving emails from us, however, please note that all emails will be sent from this address in the future with [BLDA] in the subject line.
If you have any questions, feel free to comment here, or email me at blda at uchicago dot edu.
Thanks,
Gal
While sitting here and procrastinating about my Final and Paper due tomorrow, I wanted to let everyone know about something new, and a small change.
Twitter:
We have decided to create a BLDA twitter which can be found by following BLDA_UChicago. We will be tweeting out whenever any instructor goes Salsa dancing downtown, as well as reminders about our lessons and events. If you have a twitter, follow us, if you don't, you can make one and then follow us (you can conveniently have the updates sent to you as an SMS).
Listhost:
In order to encapsulate the full features of the BLDA, we have decided to change our main listhost name from ballroom-dance@lists.uchicago.edu to blda-dance at lists dot uchicago dot edu. YOU DO NOT NEED TO DO ANYTHING if you are already receiving emails from us, however, please note that all emails will be sent from this address in the future with [BLDA] in the subject line.
If you have any questions, feel free to comment here, or email me at blda at uchicago dot edu.
Thanks,
Gal
Monday, May 18, 2009
'Salsa Explosion' I-House Performance!
Performed in the 'Festival of Nations' at the I-House. Choreographed by Alex Cheskidov & Joy Heafner based on the song "Pura Candela" by 'Fruko y Sus Tesos'. Performed by Joy & Felipe, Marilyn & Scott, and Ioana & Konrad. Enjoy!
Don't forget to check our 'BLDA UChicago Dance Teams' fan page!
Don't forget to check our 'BLDA UChicago Dance Teams' fan page!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Spring Party Rueda Performance!
thanks to everybody who came to our spring party! We had three hot performances, two by the salsa performance group and one by the Flamenco group at UChicago. We'll be posting videos of all soon, and we'll start with the exciting Rueda Performance!
Remember have a new Fan page for the BLDA Dance Teams: Ballroom Team & Salsa Performance Group
Check them out become a fan!
In Facebook, search for
"BLDA UChicago Dance Teams"
We'll have updates with our performances, auditions and other events!
Remember have a new Fan page for the BLDA Dance Teams: Ballroom Team & Salsa Performance Group
Check them out become a fan!
In Facebook, search for
"BLDA UChicago Dance Teams"
We'll have updates with our performances, auditions and other events!
Monday, May 11, 2009
BLDA Salsa Spring Party this Saturday!
This Saturday May 16th!
Enjoy Salsa, Chacha, Bachata and more, also dance Performances at 9pm!
This Saturday May 16th!
Enjoy Salsa, Chacha, Bachata and more, also dance Performances at 9pm!
We are hosting out quarterly dance party at BJ courts (1005 East 60th Street). Free lesson at 7pm (Bachata). Dancing starts at 7:30PM (until 10:30PM).
Cost: $3 with UCID, $5 all others.
As in the last party, RSVP is required to be admitted into the building, please RSVP here.
Looking forward to dance with you!
Enjoy Salsa, Chacha, Bachata and more, also dance Performances at 9pm!
This Saturday May 16th!
Enjoy Salsa, Chacha, Bachata and more, also dance Performances at 9pm!
We are hosting out quarterly dance party at BJ courts (1005 East 60th Street). Free lesson at 7pm (Bachata). Dancing starts at 7:30PM (until 10:30PM).
Cost: $3 with UCID, $5 all others.
As in the last party, RSVP is required to be admitted into the building, please RSVP here.
Looking forward to dance with you!
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Be a fan of the Dance Teams in Facebook!
We have a new Fan page for the BLDA Dance Teams: Ballroom Team & Salsa Performance Group.
Check them out become a fan!
In Facebook, search for
"BLDA UChicago Dance Teams"
We'll have updates with our performances, auditions and other events!
Check them out become a fan!
In Facebook, search for
"BLDA UChicago Dance Teams"
We'll have updates with our performances, auditions and other events!
Salsa Performances & Parties coming up!
This week:
Saturday, May 16th, 9PM: at BLDA Spring Party, BJ Commons (RSVP here) - Rueda Performance, Spring Performance **** Please note RSVP required for entrance to building.
Sunday, May 17th, 2PM: Festival of Nations, I-House (59th & Dorchester) - Spring Performance
Hope to see you there!
Saturday, May 16th, 9PM: at BLDA Spring Party, BJ Commons (RSVP here) - Rueda Performance, Spring Performance **** Please note RSVP required for entrance to building.
Sunday, May 17th, 2PM: Festival of Nations, I-House (59th & Dorchester) - Spring Performance
Hope to see you there!
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Winter 2009 Class Evaluations - Part 2
Dear all,
We hope you had a blast taking Salsa and Ballroom classes with BLDA this quarter! Hopefully, you liked our parties too! Come to our last one this Saturday!
Can you tell us a bit about your experiences both in class and with club as a whole?
Bellow are links to class surveys, as well as surveys about Open Salsa and Parties and a survey asking what dances you'd like to see in Spring 09.
Please take 3 minutes and respond for a few questions.
Thanks! We really appreciate your help!
Sasha
P.S. I know we're only had 3 weeks of classes. Feel free to fill the surveys now, or wait until next week. We will send out a reminder at the end of next week.
Thanks. Sasha
Surveys:
What's coming up in Spring 2009? You decide:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=QSQFYKtGVe_2bA4dBFxMTW5w_3d_3d
How are you liking Open Salsa and Latin Parties?
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=zs3lEiGhoTZtrmjF_2bUwIAw_3d_3d
Are you a member of our Salsa Performance Group? Let us know how we are doing:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=iL_2b_2fcXKK2PVcKOxQ1CjdPg_3d_3d
Monday Beginning Salsa II 7-8pm with Sasha and Sarah:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=83WW82VmLOeQGvzDXgV34A_3d_3d
Monday Continuing Salsa II 8-9pm with Felipe and Mary:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=h4wfptTriSFMQrjKSCyO1A_3d_3d
Monday Intermediate Salsa II 9-10pm with Rie and James:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=UzQ6pUpEiSOiZJZiOkoJ9A_3d_3d
Tuesday Beginning Ballroom Workshop with Sasha and Ballroom Team:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=y9jCiRFbt1UWIWrW7sbpkA_3d_3d
Thursday Rueda II 7-8pm with Stephen and Sarah:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=0L9eKdqhymVhsYW1RBVTUA_3d_3d
Thursday Intermediate Ballroom (Feb/March classes) 7-9pm with Beth:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=xmc33ynnLcaCGRrwSYNNBg_3d_3d
Thursday Bachata with Alex, Felipe, Rie, et all.
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=HOgxaONrZDCdNjLOV76xIQ_3d_3d
We hope you had a blast taking Salsa and Ballroom classes with BLDA this quarter! Hopefully, you liked our parties too! Come to our last one this Saturday!
Can you tell us a bit about your experiences both in class and with club as a whole?
Bellow are links to class surveys, as well as surveys about Open Salsa and Parties and a survey asking what dances you'd like to see in Spring 09.
Please take 3 minutes and respond for a few questions.
Thanks! We really appreciate your help!
Sasha
P.S. I know we're only had 3 weeks of classes. Feel free to fill the surveys now, or wait until next week. We will send out a reminder at the end of next week.
Thanks. Sasha
Surveys:
What's coming up in Spring 2009? You decide:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=QSQFYKtGVe_2bA4dBFxMTW5w_3d_3d
How are you liking Open Salsa and Latin Parties?
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=zs3lEiGhoTZtrmjF_2bUwIAw_3d_3d
Are you a member of our Salsa Performance Group? Let us know how we are doing:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=iL_2b_2fcXKK2PVcKOxQ1CjdPg_3d_3d
Monday Beginning Salsa II 7-8pm with Sasha and Sarah:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=83WW82VmLOeQGvzDXgV34A_3d_3d
Monday Continuing Salsa II 8-9pm with Felipe and Mary:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=h4wfptTriSFMQrjKSCyO1A_3d_3d
Monday Intermediate Salsa II 9-10pm with Rie and James:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=UzQ6pUpEiSOiZJZiOkoJ9A_3d_3d
Tuesday Beginning Ballroom Workshop with Sasha and Ballroom Team:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=y9jCiRFbt1UWIWrW7sbpkA_3d_3d
Thursday Rueda II 7-8pm with Stephen and Sarah:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=0L9eKdqhymVhsYW1RBVTUA_3d_3d
Thursday Intermediate Ballroom (Feb/March classes) 7-9pm with Beth:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=xmc33ynnLcaCGRrwSYNNBg_3d_3d
Thursday Bachata with Alex, Felipe, Rie, et all.
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=HOgxaONrZDCdNjLOV76xIQ_3d_3d
Sunday, March 01, 2009
Salsa Winter Party!
Saturday March 7th: SALSA PARTY !!!!
Come dance with us!
We'll be dancing Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cha Cha, and even some reaggeaton all night long!
Join us at 7 pm for a free Bachata lesson with Rie & Antonio!
Dancing starts at 7:30 (and lasts till 10:30pm).
Sneak Peaks of Performance by the Rueda Advanced Class & Ballroom Team!
IMPORTANT: If you are interested in attending, and EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT SURE, please email salsaparty at uchicago dot edu since we are required to provide a guest list at the door. People who are not on the list will not be allowed to enter.
If you want to bring friends, you are welcome to do so but send us a list with your friends' names!
Location: Burton-Judson (BJ) Courts
Time: 6:30pm-10:30pm
Cost: $3 with UCID, $5 all others
Looking forward to see you!
Come dance with us!
We'll be dancing Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cha Cha, and even some reaggeaton all night long!
Join us at 7 pm for a free Bachata lesson with Rie & Antonio!
Dancing starts at 7:30 (and lasts till 10:30pm).
Sneak Peaks of Performance by the Rueda Advanced Class & Ballroom Team!
IMPORTANT: If you are interested in attending, and EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT SURE, please email salsaparty at uchicago dot edu since we are required to provide a guest list at the door. People who are not on the list will not be allowed to enter.
If you want to bring friends, you are welcome to do so but send us a list with your friends' names!
Location: Burton-Judson (BJ) Courts
Time: 6:30pm-10:30pm
Cost: $3 with UCID, $5 all others
Looking forward to see you!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Winter 2009 Class Evaluations
Winter 2009 Class Evaluations for the 1st part of the quarter are here:
Beginning Salsa I with Sasha and Sarah, Mondays 7-8:30pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=EidK9_2fdmcpN_2b1SXpxRIhOQ_3d_3d
Beginning Ballroom with Sasha, Tuesdays 6:30-8:30pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=4DlCs6MzoIJG3K_2fWwn_2bsJQ_3d_3d
Continuing Salsa I with Felipe and Mary, Mondays 9-10:30pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=TrFwC3gLy_2bdtEIt_2bCkWW1w_3d_3d
Intermediate Salsa I with Rie and James, Mondays 9-10:30pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=RVJmyBcgDLyLvPRScftMjQ_3d_3d
Intermediate Ballroom with Beth, Thursdays 7-9pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=Wc_2b1U5uY1Ewl3D1XcZQn6g_3d_3d
Rueda I with Stephen and Sarah, Thursdays 7-8pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=hIjKH3DoLWlA9F19INDnmA_3d_3d
Nightclub Cha Cha with Alex, Thursdays 8:30-10pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=H6ezk_2bryh_2f89_2bihUcoRjTw_3d_3d
Beginning Salsa I with Sasha and Sarah, Mondays 7-8:30pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=EidK9_2fdmcpN_2b1SXpxRIhOQ_3d_3d
Beginning Ballroom with Sasha, Tuesdays 6:30-8:30pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=4DlCs6MzoIJG3K_2fWwn_2bsJQ_3d_3d
Continuing Salsa I with Felipe and Mary, Mondays 9-10:30pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=TrFwC3gLy_2bdtEIt_2bCkWW1w_3d_3d
Intermediate Salsa I with Rie and James, Mondays 9-10:30pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=RVJmyBcgDLyLvPRScftMjQ_3d_3d
Intermediate Ballroom with Beth, Thursdays 7-9pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=Wc_2b1U5uY1Ewl3D1XcZQn6g_3d_3d
Rueda I with Stephen and Sarah, Thursdays 7-8pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=hIjKH3DoLWlA9F19INDnmA_3d_3d
Nightclub Cha Cha with Alex, Thursdays 8:30-10pm
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=H6ezk_2bryh_2f89_2bihUcoRjTw_3d_3d
Monday, February 16, 2009
2009 Chicago Salsa Congress - Part I: Performance Video
Hi,
last week the Salsa Performance Group (for now) 'Salsa Chic' performed in the Emergent Artist Showcase at the 8th annual Chicago International Salsa Congress. Here is the video!
Enjoy!
last week the Salsa Performance Group (for now) 'Salsa Chic' performed in the Emergent Artist Showcase at the 8th annual Chicago International Salsa Congress. Here is the video!
Enjoy!
Friday, January 30, 2009
Party Saturday!
A reminder that tonight 1/31 we will have our first Winter Quarter Salsa Party!
We'll be spinning, Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cha Cha, and even some reagaton all night long!
Join us at 7pm for a free Merengue lesson taught by Sarah and Gal.
Dancing starts at 7:30 (and lasts till 11pm).
Performance by our Salsa Team 'Salsa Chic' and our Ballroom Team at 9:30pm.
Location: Ida Noyes Third Floor Theater
Time: 7pm-11pm
Cost: $3 with UCID, $5 all others
see you there!
We'll be spinning, Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cha Cha, and even some reagaton all night long!
Join us at 7pm for a free Merengue lesson taught by Sarah and Gal.
Dancing starts at 7:30 (and lasts till 11pm).
Performance by our Salsa Team 'Salsa Chic' and our Ballroom Team at 9:30pm.
Location: Ida Noyes Third Floor Theater
Time: 7pm-11pm
Cost: $3 with UCID, $5 all others
see you there!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Chicago Salsa Congress Volunteering Opportunity
Hello everybody,
I'd like to announce you one of the biggest salsa events in the Midwest: The 2009 Chicago International Salsa Congress.
It will be held on February 12-15 on the Westin O'Hare Hotel, in Rosemont, IL. It features 4 nights of performance & open dance, and 3-days of full-day workshops. You can find more info and register/pay at
Since it is not a cheap event, we were looking for ways where our students can participate. And I'm happy to tell you that the organizers are offering us Volunteering spots for the Congress. Here you help in the organization of the event, usually for half of the day and the other half you can stay either dancing or taking workshops for free. Parking is also paid for!
This is a very good opportunity to participate if you are on a budget. Let me know (at salsa@uchicago.edu) ASAP if you are interested, since shifts are quickly being filled out! Let me know what are the best days/times you can help.
Hope to see you in lessons soon!
Cheers,
Felipe
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Winter Quarter Schedule, 2 NEW CLASSES!
Good Afternoon Everyone!
9-10:30 Continuing Salsa II with Mary and Felipe (East Lounge in Feb, West Lounge in Mar)
This quarter, due to our room allotment, our schedule will be a bit different then usual. Please read over the schedule carefully. If you have any questions, you can always email me at blda@uchicago.edu.
I am proud to introduce two new sequences: Social Cha Cha and Bachata. Both classes will be 4.5 hour sequences taught on Thursdays in the Ida Noyes Library. Please see below for further details.
Basically, because of room scheduling, many of our classes will be three week sequences instead of four. To make up for this, the classes are 1.5 hours long instead of just 1 hour. Also, many of our classes will not begin second week as they usually do.
A quick summery:
Mondays: Beginning, Continuing, and Intermediate Salsa
Tuesdays: Beginning Ballroom and Hustle
Wednesdays: Performance Salsa, and coming mid february, Performance Rueda (in the Shoreland Ballroom).
Thursdays: Rueda (I & II), Social Cha Cha, Bachata, Intermediate Ballroom
Monday January 5th:
We are going to have review lessons for Beginner & Continuing levels this Monday, January 5th (in the previous email it accidentally said Jan 4th), starting at 7pm in Ida Noyes. This is intended for the students of the previous quarter who need to review of the basic moves/techinques, refresh their memories, and also have a guided practice. No new moves will be taught. New students will not be admitted.
The schedule is as follows:
- 7pm: Beginner Level Review (James & Sheila)
- 8pm: Continuing Level Review (James, Sheila & Rie)
- 9pm: Open Salsa
Please come, so you can ask all the questions you want to our instructors, and get ready for the evaluations of Jan 26th (where we'll recommend you based on your dancing which level to take).
The schedule is as follows:
- 7pm: Beginner Level Review (James & Sheila)
- 8pm: Continuing Level Review (James, Sheila & Rie)
- 9pm: Open Salsa
Please come, so you can ask all the questions you want to our instructors, and get ready for the evaluations of Jan 26th (where we'll recommend you based on your dancing which level to take).
Please note, these classes are absolutely free, and we strongly recommend you come.
Mondays (Jan 26, Feb 2 & 9)
7-8:30 Beginning Salsa I with Sasha & Sarah (Cloister Club)
8:30 - 9 Open Salsa (Cloister Club)
9-10:30 Intermediate Salsa I with Rie and James (Cloister Club)9-10:30 Continuing Salsa I with Mary and Felipe (West Lounge)
Mondays (Feb 23, Mar 2 & 9)
7-8:30 Beginning Salsa II with Sasha & Sarah (Cloister Club)
8:30 - 9 Open Salsa (Cloister Club)
9-10:30 Intermediate Salsa II with Rie and James (Cloister Club)
All Monday Salsa classes are $16 with UCID, $20 All others. You may try the first class for $5. Please note that for Continuing and Intermediate Salsa you must complete the previous class and pass the evaluations or receive instructor approval.
Tuesday January 13 at Henry Crown
Kuvia 6:30-7:30 AM with Gal and Rie
(FREE)
Tuesday January 6: Open team practice and meeting. Check the ballroom team listhost for full details.
Tuesdays:
Beginning Ballroom with Sasha and the Ballroom Team.
4-week sequence (2-hr classes).
Class meets on Jan 27, Feb 3, Feb 10, and Mar 3.
Time: 6:30-8:30pm
Cost: $25 with UCID, $30 all others
Hustle Fun Dance with Sheng
4-week sequence.
Class meets on Jan 27, Feb 3, Feb 10, and Mar 3.
Time: 8:30-9:30pm
Cost: $16 with UCID, $20 all others
Wednesdays in the Shoreland Ballroom (5454 S. Shore Drive)
Coming in February: 7-8:30, Adv. Rueda with Antonio and Sarah
8:30 - 10 Performance Salsa with Felipe, Sheila, and Alex
The first four weeks will be open for students from last quarter. Cost: $16 with UCID, $20 for all others.
Starting Feb 4th, the class will be open to auditions for new students. Details to follow. Cost: $24 with UCID, $30 all others.
Thursdays (Jan 15 & 29, Feb 5) Library
7-8 Rueda I with Stephen and Sarah
8-8:30 Open Dance
8:30-10 Cha Cha with Alex
Thursdays (Feb 12, 19, 26) Library
7-8 Rueda II with Stephen and Sarah
8-8:30 Open Dance
8:30-10 Bachata with Felipe and/or Alex
The Rueda sequences will be $12 with UCID, $15 all others, $5 to try the first class. Please note Rueda II requires completion of a previous Rueda sequence.
The Cha Cha and Bachata classes will be $16 with UCID, $20 all others, $5 to try the first class. These classes are open to all.
Intermediate Ballroom with Beth
No Partner Necessary.
Requires completion of Beginning Ballroom or instructor approval.
Location: Shoreland Ballroom (5454 S. Shore Drive)
Time: 7-9pm (beginning January 15)
Cost: $35 with UCID, $40 all others.
PARTIES:
We will be having two parties this quarter. On Saturday January 31st in the Ida Noyes Theater, and Saturday March 7th in the BJ lounge. The parties will probably start around 7:30, with further details to follow.
Google Calendar:
All the above information and more is available on the google calendar available at:
Quarterly Membership:
Quarterly membership is available for the winter quarter through Monday January 26th. It is $60 for with UCID, $70 all others. Membership can admit you to all classes, workshops, and parties. However, this does not mean you can skip sequences. Memberships may be revoked if membership rules are broken.
All membership requests must be made with Gal Oppenheimer either in person or via email to blda@uchicago.edu. You cannot purchase a membership from any other instructor. Please note the deadline is being extended due to many of our classes beginning so late.
Proper Attire:
Clothing:
Please wear comfortable clothing. Skirts, dresses, or slacks are not required.
Shoes:
We strongly recommend you dance in heels (for girls) and shoes with little traction (for guys). This is not required, but recommended. However, no flip-flops or shoes with an open back. This is due to safety concerns. If you dance in shoes with an open back, you will most likely severely twist your ankle. If you spin in flip-flops, you can injure yourself and on occasion break your flip-flops.
If you would like information on where to purchase dance shoes, please speak to any of the instructors.
If you have any other questions or concerns, don't hesitate to email me back.
Hope to see you all this week,
Have an amazing winter break,
Gal
Gal Oppenheimer
Ballroom and Latin Dance Association
Vice President, Secretary
ballroom.uchicago.edu
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
