So you think you can dance?
With the recent surge in popularity of shows such as Dancing with the Stars and So you think you can dance?, Penn Latin and Ballroom Dance is catering to student interest this summer and is heating up Houston Hall with its own repertoire of moves.
The group is offering classes every Tuesday and Thursday through August in salsa, cha-cha, swing dance and Argentine tango.
The classes are taught by College alumna Christy Kam, who has previously placed second in the regional qualifiers for the National Ballroom and Latin Competition for American Rhythm, the American version of Latin dance.
"A lot of people have become interested in lessons after the insurgence of popular dance shows," she said. "These television shows show that it is doable, not just for old people and not cheesy."
When asked why she decided to join the club, Kam said, "I danced ballet before ballroom but could not continue because of an ankle injury, so I decided to join Penn Latin and Ballroom."
But you don't have to have previous dance experience or be an expert to take lessons.
Penn Latin and Ballroom offers classes for all skill levels as well as to those without any prior experience.
"I started Latin and ballroom here at Penn, and I've been doing this for three years," said Taylor Wemmer, the group's vice president. "It's the only dance team you don't have to audition for on campus."
Classes are held in Houston Hall and larger classes normally range from 30 to 40 couples. Often more men than women tend to show up for the lessons, Wemmer said.
"Salsa is by far our most popular dance, so we offer it every session, and you do not need to come with a couple. Most people sign up by themselves," Wemmer added.
Prices range from $20 for a set of six lessons or can be purchased at $7 per lesson.
Though it might take a few more lessons than that to wow the judges on television, it might be worth a try.
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