Las Vegas dance instructors discuss lessons


What styles of dancing do you teach?

Ashley Gable: "We teach all ballroom styles including American rhythm, International and Latin and dances like the hustle."

Nancy Nies: "We do both ballroom and Latin styles. A few examples are swing, Fox-trot, cha-cha, bolero, rumba and country."

Donna Friaf: "We have many styles. We teach ballet, pointe, jazz, hip-hop, tap, tumbling and ballroom dancing."

What's your favorite dance and why?

Ashley Gable: "My favorite is the samba. It's the most complex and you get to shake a lot."

Nancy Nies: "I love International rumba. It's very slow, expressive, romantic and sensual."

Donna Friaf: "My passion growing up was ballet but I've since branched out to love them all."

How do you charge for dance lessons and what's the cost?

Ashley Gable: "Our private sessions last 45 minutes and cost $70 each. Group sessions are $15 for individuals or $20 for couples."

Nancy Nies: "Private sessions are $60 to $70, depending on the dance. Group session and parties are $12 at the door. Each session is 45 minutes."

Donna Friaf: "It's $46 a month for one group class per week. Our private lessons are $40 per class or $149 for four lessons. Most lessons last 45 minutes."

Have shows like "Dancing with the Stars" helped your business?

Ashley Gable: "Oh yes. It's sparked new interest in ballroom dancing."

Nancy Nies: "People always mention it but I can't say for certain if it's impacted our business."

Donna Friaf: "Yes. I think it's inspired and enthused many people that normally wouldn't be."

Do they need to practice outside of class?

Ashley Gable: "I ask they practice five minutes here and there. You know, a little cha-cha while you're brushing your teeth."

Nancy Nies: "Just like any other skill, like learning a language, it takes a lot of practice. Yes, practice at home."

Donna Friaf: "We recommend they stretch their muscles at home, not practice. We don't want them practicing the wrong steps."

What is your experience in this industry?

Ashley Gable: "I've been teaching ballroom for ten years."

Nancy Nies: "I've been at this since 1988 in one form or another."

Donna Friaf: "I performed professionally for over 20 years."

How do you handle the most dancing-challenged clients?

Ashley Gable: "My partner and I work on their timing and attitude. A positive attitude is important."

Nancy Nies: "With tender, loving care. The 'I have two left feet' excuse doesn't work here."

Donna Friaf: "Very patiently. It's important you place them in the appropriate class and make sure it's not too advanced for them." 

Add new comment

What is Angie's List

Angie’s List is the trusted spot where more than 1 million members go to get ratings and reviews on everything from home repair to health care. Stop guessing when it comes to hiring! Check Angie’s List to find out who does the best work in town.

Local Discounts

Daily deals up to 70% off popular home improvement projects from top-rated contractors on Angie’s List!