Frequently Asked Questions

If this is the first time you have ever heard of a competitive ballroom dance team, don’t worry! We have your questions answered, and please email us with any additional ones!

bbdt-info@lists.services.wisc.edu

I want to learn, but I don’t know how to dance!

Perfect! Then BBDT is for you! We are dedicated to providing the highest quality instruction and will teach you technique and steps from scratch. Most of our members had never danced before joining the team, and our coaches are experienced in training beginning dancers. There are no try-outs or auditions to join, all you need is interest!

Can I see how I like a class before I commit to joining the team?

Of course. Your first class at BBDT with the weekly instructors is absolutely free. Please come check us out during the first week of class! Because our excellent coaches drive from Chicago, you must be a team member to take lessons with our Chicago coaches.

I am really busy, can I still join the team?

Yes. You get out of the team what you put into it. You will still have a great time. It is most important to attend as many weekly lessons as you can, and practice will make you improve much faster. However, even taking a lesson once a week can greatly improve your dancing! You will pay the same dues as all team members, so it’s greatly to your advantage to use all of the lessons and practice space we offer!

What if I have dance experience such as ballet, jazz, etc.?

Ballroom is different from ballet, jazz, and contemporary, etc., but the basics of dance technique and knowledge of how to move your body are very similar across dance styles. You will likely progress much faster through our classes, and will benefit greatly from exposure to our professional coaches. Whatever your dance level, we provide you with opportunities to further improve your dancing.

Do I need a partner?

No, you do not need a partner to join the team. Most people join by themselves, so you can find a partner on the team if you would like to have a partner for practice and competitions.

How will I find a partner if I join the team?

Once you join the team, our Captain and Competition Coordinator will help you find a partner with whom you can practice and compete. For intermediate and advanced dancers who join the team, we will try to introduce you to other team members who are looking for partners.

Why do I have to pay for lessons?

BBDT is a non-profit team, and we use money from membership dues to provide our members with the highest level of instruction, practice space, and competition experience. Like all sports, high-level instruction is not free, and we take great pride in bringing the top professional coaches from Chicago to Madison.

Do you perform in a non-competitive setting?

Yes, we hold a showcase every semester, and anyone on the team who wants to perform is given the opportunity. Although beginners are most welcome to perform alone, we also put together group formations so there is no pressure to perform alone.

What do I wear to class?

Dancing is something between an art and a sport, so you'll need to dress for both. Expect to sweat and have a good workout, but also dress so that instructors can easily observe your body during movement. Wear something you can comfortably move in, but not too baggy. It is important that the instructors are able to observe your leg actions (jeans are not preferred). Women: yoga pants, shorts, or skirts are all appropriate. Any type of top will work as long as it's not too loose and may get in the way of you moving around or spinning around the guy. If you wear a skirt, make sure to wear conservative dance pants underneath because we may be doing spins. Men: something more fitted than what you usually wear. Most dancers prefer to dance in dress pants rather than jeans, but during the first weeks of classes jeans are just fine. Make sure your pants are loose enough so they won’t split if you lunge or squat. General: Because you may be very close to your partners, be sure to wear deodorant, use breath mints, and go easy on the perfume.

Do I need specific shoes for ballroom?

On the first few weeks of class, socks or shoes you can move around in are just fine. You’ll quickly figure out what kind of movement we will do in class and wear shoes you have accordingly. Most members who plan to join for a semester or more purchase a pair of ballroom shoes. While these shoes seem a bit pricey, they are a great investment and last a long time. Before you decide to buy a pair of shoes, please consult our instructors or experienced team members! We often make shoe trips as a team and obtain group discounts.

How many people are on the team?

Last semester, we had over 60 team members. We anticipate seeing some new faces this semester as well as many returning team members.

Is there anything else you do besides practicing and competing?

Of course! The team organizes many social events, such as movie nights, fruit picking, parties, and much more. This semester Beginner and Intermediate Latin will be held on the same day, providing an opportunity for different level dancers to really get to know each other!

What are competitions like? Do I have to compete to join the team?

Please see our Competitions page for more information. You do not have to compete to benefit from the team, but many of our members find it a greatly motivating and fun experience!

What do I need to do to join the team?

Come to our classes during the first week, fill out a membership form and pay your dues. That’s it!