Las Vegas Dance Classes Las Vegas, NV

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."