Questions, Answers, and Other Information

What is considered ballroom dancing?

Dances such as Foxtrot, Waltz, Swing, Jive, Quickstep, Peabody, Rumba, Salsa, West Coast Swing, East Coast Swing, Cha-Cha, Tango, and Samba are among the dances considered ballroom dances. As you can see, there is a wide variety of dance styles and tempos included.

What is a Mixer Dance?

There are several variations on mixer dances. One of the most common is to form 2 lines - 1 of men and 1 of women. Dancers at the beginning of the line pair off and dance the length of the floor, then take their place at the end of the line. Another version has several couples begin the dancing and at a pause in the music, turn to other dancers in the room and select a new partner. This process continues until all dancers participating are on the floor. Some attendees prefer to sit out the mixers BUT your skills are improved by participation.

What is proper attire for dances?

Elegant/Casual - Gentlemen's attire ranges from open neck sports shirts to suits. Options for women include slacks and blouses to dressier dresses. Use your judgment on what makes you comfortable. Note that you will be best served to dance in comfortable leather soled shoes.

Do I need a partner to attend a dance?

No. Singles as well as couples are welcomed.

Are beginners welcome?

Yes. Beginners are welcome and will be helped to get started.

Can women ask men to dance?

Yes. Women can ask men to dance.

How is dancing good for you?

It helps keep your heart and your brain healthy. You will profit from the physical, mental and social benefits, as well as the joys, of a regular program of ballroom dancing.

Can I dance at other Chapters in other states and be considered a member?

Attend Chapter dances anywhere in the country and pay the lower admission prices applicable to members. Call the 800 number for dance information on any place in the country. Use this service when planning business trips and vacations. Call 1-800-447-9047.

Does USABDA - North-Central New Mexico Chapter accept donations?

Yes. We are a Section 501(c)3 educational, charitable, non-profit organization. All items donated to USA Dance, Inc. are tax deductible at their fair market value. Inquiries should be directed to usadancenm@yahoo.com with "donation" written in the subject line.

How can I become more involved?

If you would like to help out at our dances, join a committee, etc., please let any of the Chapter officers know your interest. Please provide your contact information, including your name, address, phone, and email address. You can also email your interest to usadancenm@yahoo.com - write in the subject line "I want to help."

What are the upcoming National Ballroom Dance Week dates?

September 20-29, 2008; September 18-27, 2009; and September 17-26, 2010

What are the membership categories?

Recreational Dancer -

Ballroom Dancer: A keen dancer and supporter of Dancesport who does not compete but strives to dance at proficiency levels similar to those who do.

Social Dancer: A dance who does not compete but who enjoys dancing and appreciates the physical, mental and social benefits of engaging in a regular program of dancing.

Social Youth Dancer: Dancer under age 19

Dancesport Athlete (Dancers who participate in dancesport competions.) -

Adult DanceSport Athlete: Adult Athlete dancer

Student DanceSport Athlete: Athlete dancer below age of 35 enrolled in school full time.

Minor DanceSport Athlete: Athlete dancer below age of 19.

Other Individual Member -

Associate: Individual not eligible or desirous of membership in any other category who wishes to support the aims and objectives of USA Dance.

Coach: An individual who is engaged in preparing athletes for competition.

Instructor: An individual who is engaged in teaching social dancing.

Manager: An individual who is engaged in the support of dancesport activities or Athletes.

Official: An individual who is eligible to officiate at dancesport competitions (e.g. judge, scrutineer, MC, music director).

Organizer: An individual who is engaged in the support of dancesport and/or recreational dance events.

Trainer: An individual who is engaged in the physical or mental training of dancesport athletes.

Other Information

NOTE: We urge attendees to introduce themselves to others and to enjoy themselves at the dances. USABDA members are urged to seek out and introduce themselves to each new member and non-new member and welcome them to our dances.

Our Chapter Newsletter is distributed by email or by visiting our website: www.usadance.org. If you would like to receive the newsletter electronically, please send us your email address.

Our Chapter Newsletter will now offer advertising opportunities as follows:

  • Full Page $50.00
  • 1/2 Page $30.00
  • 1/4 Page $20.00

Members will receive 35% discount off advertising prices.

Please send your inquiries to usadancenm@yahoo.com with "advertising" on subject line.

Dance Organizations

Amateur

  • IDSF International Dancesport Federation
  • USABDA United States Amateur Ballroom Dancers Association, Inc.
  • BADA British Amateur Dancers Association
  • CABDA Canadian Amateur Ballroom Dancers Associations
  • ADBC Australian Dancing Board Company

Professional

  • NDCA National Dance Council of America
  • ISTD Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance
  • USTA US Terpischore Association, Inc.
  • ADTA American Dance Teachers Association
  • WDDC The World Dance and Dancesport Council
  • IDTA International Dance Teachers Association, Ltd.