Sunday, January 4, 2009

So You Think Your Kid Can Dance?

By Jim Lamb

Ballroom and Latin dancing, while frightening propositions to adults without experience, are nothing for kids. And why should they care? Children lack the concerns for appearances they adults harbor, aren't unafraid of falling or looking stupid, and have energy any adult would kill for. So with all that moldable drive, and fearlessness, all that's missing is quality dance instruction. And now Clearwater has that, as well.

In August of 2008, world famous instructors of dance, Arthur Murray Dance Studios opened their newest franchised dance studio in LaBelle Plaza on Highland Avenue in Clearwater, giving Pinellas county residents one less reason to put off ballroom dancing in Tampa Bay . And with their launching of the Kid's Dance Program, parents can now ensure their children will impress at every wedding they attend, if not lay the groundwork for something deeper and dance-related. So whether parents want to retire to the Caribbean on their kid's dime, or just want to involve them in a positive activity, Arthur Murray Clearwater has a dancing package for every need.

Kid's classes are geared toward those aged 7-17. Patient, and professional dance instructors will teach the basics in dances like FOXTROT, WALTZ, RUMBA, SWING, CHA-CHA, and more.

Studio owners Sevrin Szapiaczan and Landra Seim promise, "Kids frequently change partners and have loads of fun while learning."

Studentswill first learn fundamental skills in at least two distinct dance styles in every lesson. The beginner class is designed as a fun intro to ballroom and Latin dance styles, while the Advanced Class focuses more on dance technique and choreography. The instructors are also available for private lessons five days per week for those who want to focus on performance and competition.

Children's Dance Classes are $15 per class, per student, or parents can purchase the entire 11-week course for $165 .

Beginner's Classes are held on Wednesdays at 6:00pm for children aged 7-12, and then at 6:45pm for older kid's aged 13-17.

Intermediate/Advanced classes are every Saturday morning at 11:00am, for those aged 7-12, and 11:45am, for those aged 13-17.

Although there is no registration fee, registration is required. For more information, please visit the studio's website at ArthurMurrayClearwater.com or call them at 727-489-9919. - 16752

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