I chanced upon this amazing studio in the middle of what is to me nowhere but evidently a hot spot for the local hoofers to go strut their stuff on that gorgeously ample and smooth dance floor. This is not your Fred Astaire or Arthur Murray dance step, this is Dancing with the Stars stepping out in a big way. In fact they are owned and operated by two of the dancers from that show and they know how to do this big. I love the classy modern décor, the amazing staff who make you feel like you an old friend… It must be all those smiles and rubber necking they do on the dance floor that shapes their disposition to greet you with warmth and a flawless posture. Plenty of space to change your shoes, cubbies for your belongings, free eats, though that is not what i want to see, they have tons of goodies on display just waiting for your to be tempted. But I come to be toned and after just one class my legs, I swear, are more fabulous than when I walked in. I can not say enough about my guy Rani(spelling), tall dark slim as all get out of here and soo amazing as a teacher and so much fun to dance with. You who never have danced and claim to have two lleft feet, get on out your dancing shoes and as they say in Argentine tango, sacale la viruta!
Sharon K.
Évaluation du lieu : 5 Rockville, MD
Friends are amazed at my transformation from geopolitical/economic news junkie to ballroom dance aficionado. It’s such a departure from the norm, that hopping in the car, driving from DC to Long Island to see both performances of SWAY this past Saturday evening with my daughter, was quite a commitment. We were not disappointed and would happily see it again. In short, SWAY was about emotion, relationships and life: desire, joy, and passion all conveyed through movement, music, and visual impact. The amount of love and energy put into this production, with a cast of Dance With Me professionals, was apparent from the opening scene and never let up through all three Acts. The premise of the performance was interesting and creative. Three acts, three different views into dance: the Golden Age of Ballroom, Urban Influences via the creative melting pot of Brooklyn, and the passionate, emotional Latin influences which speak a whole language of movement and music of their own. These vignettes spoke to the audience through movement, music, impeccable costuming, and high quality production values of lighting, audio/visual themes, and special effects. To me, it really underscored the reality that dance isn’t static in terms of feeling, even if the forms are recognizable regardless of the era and environment. Thus, the viewer was able to see a Jive through the lens of the Golden Age and Urban settings… still the Jive, but oh, what a different ‘flavor’! The first act was what one typically thinks of when the term ‘ballroom dance’ is mentioned. The setting took the audience back to the zenith of ballroom dance and the Golden Age film era which underscored the popular movement at a time when every town had a dance hall and for ten cents, young people could spend an evening dancing the night away. Tony Dovolani and Elena Grinenko, World Champion partners in American Rhythm, were the headliners of this Act, one of their dances was the one which secured them a World Championship title. The cast did a remarkable job portraying this period in all of its grandeur; from appropriately theatrical expressions on the dancers faces to the sparkly splendor of Swarovski crystals winking at the audience from Elena’s inspired costume. Val and Zendaya headlined the high energy second Act which brought viewers to a more visceral, real and raw form of dance. The setting was, appropriately, the first home in the US for the Chmerkovskiy brothers: Brooklyn. Long a melting pot and incubator of creativity, the production brought the viewer to the streets of this borough. While some of the dances were in the same style as in the first Act, the ‘feel’ was distinctly different. This was a real eye-opener… What is a ‘Jive’? It depends. The components are the same, but the execution, the arrangement and feel is completely different. Zendaya is a delight to watch dance. Her energy and clear and obvious joy at performing brings a smile to the face and a feeling of happiness to the audience. As for Val, what can one say other than his dancing is sublime? The second Act, along with the others, didn’t shy away from injecting good-natured humor into the program. Those old enough to recall the early days of MTV, music videos, and the introduction of hip-hop/breakdancing to a wider, more suburban audience started grinning from the start of the ‘show down’ dance off between the urban hip hop and tube-sock and shooooort athletic short wearing ‘exercise video’ types. The costuming was fantastic throughout this Act, featuring items from the Valentin line along with modern twists on classic design, such as a Chanel inspired quilted vest. The last Act, headlined by Maks and Peta Murgatroyd, was all about PASSION. Well deserving of the highest accolades, their dancing was sizzling hot and their Paso Doble, in particular, was a stand out for it’s dramatic intensity. This Act was the most traditionally Latin in feel, which was emphasized by the musical selection as well as the more festive, colorful costuming. Elements from Cha Cha, Samba, Tango and Salsa were in force during the group dances and it’s encouraging in so many parts of the world, Latin dancing is enjoyed by all as part of everyday life. Peta is an incredibly lovely dancer and a joy to watch perform. As for Maks, Val once said that Maks can lift an eyebrow and an audience will go wild, while he, Val, has to do all sorts of flips and tricks to gain the same response. While Val was quite modest, there is something about Maks’ presence on a dance floor or stage which simply draws the eye and is compelling to watch. The only downside to the entire day, was that it ended. Clearly, anything the Chmerkovskiy brothers place their stamp of approval upon, is worthy and of high quality. SWAY was not only brilliantly conceived, choreographed, produced and performed: it offered insights into life and love, through dancing. Kudos to everyone involved with this magnificent production!
Heather E.
Évaluation du lieu : 5 Ronkonkoma, NY
Started ballroom dancing and at DWM in June 2013 and I absolutely love it! The entire staff is amazing, with very warm, friendly, and encouraging atmosphere. You always get the feeling that they want you to do your best and succeed at whatever your goals that brought you there are. Not only are the private lessons beyond amazing, but the group lessons and social parties are very educational and fun. I look forward to them each week. The instructors are wonderful at tailoring teaching to the way in which you learn. They make each lesson fun while striving to teach you to be your best at the varies dances. I highly recommend this studio and honestly cant say enough positive things about the studio and staff!!! Additionally in the additional tips they ask if this is good for kids, the studio just opened Dance with Me Junior just for kids!!!
Barbara V.
Évaluation du lieu : 5 Locust Valley, NY
Dance With Me is truly the best place to learn ballroom dancing. I have always wanted to learn since I was a kid. The instructors break down each step in a slow fashion and work with you so you can become the best ballroom dancer! I highly recommend this place to anyone who wants to pursue it :)
Ali T.
Évaluation du lieu : 5 Stuart, FL
Just one lesson and I was impressed. The dance instructors are all beautiful, well-groomed and fabulous, well-trained dancers. My trial lesson was in the Salsa. The instructors explained each step patiently, even for my husband. By the end of the hour we were dancing around the floor to a salsa beat. What fun! I would definitely recommend taking a trial lesson to see for yourself. You may get started in the dancing craze and love it!
Marzena G.
Évaluation du lieu : 5 Glen Cove, NY
Very nice place, great atmosphere and fun to learn ballroom dancing.