Dance Fever

The D gets you movin’ and groovin’ one step at a time
By Kim Silarski Photography by Roy Ritchie

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Has watching those wildly popular TV dance programs like So You Think You Can Dance made you think about hitting the dance floor yourself? You’re not alone, says Brenda Rudd of Madison Heights, who corresponds electronically with more than 900 Michigan dance fans every week.

“Everyone is watching those shows. Now people of all ages, young and old, want to learn to dance,” says Rudd, who describes her Web site, www.dancemichigan.com, as an information station for anyone interested in the metro Detroit and statewide dance scene.

We’re talking about social dancing — what you might do at a party or out on the town — not formal study. “It’s fun, it burns a lot of calories, and it helps you be more self-assured in social situations. If you know a few steps, you will be a more confident person,” she says. “It’s also a great way to meet new people.”

If you’d like to dance in public but don’t want to become a clip on America’s Funniest Home Videos or a featured video on YouTube, you’re in the right place. Since Motown, techno and other musical forms were born in or influenced by The D, the area and dancing go hand in hand.

A Dance Revolution
Whether you love to dance or shy away from it, The D isn’t going to let you sit this one out. In this nightlife-crazy multicultural melting pot, you can sample a range of dance styles — from a simple country line dance to sensuous Latin steps or athletic swing moves — for free or just a few bucks per lesson.

“Anyone can do it,” says Lana Mini, a sinuous and graceful Middle Eastern dance instructor. Mini is director of Detroit Bellydance , which offers newcomers one complimentary session at several sites around town. And age isn’t a factor. Mini’s students range in age from six to 74. You might not care to belly dance in public, but you will develop a fundamental dancing skill.

“I tell new students, ‘Give me three weeks and your hips will be moving like you never imagined possible,’” says Mini, who hails from Sterling Heights. New students also get a free private lesson at area locations of the Arthur Murray Franchised Dance Studio. In business since 1912, this national chain is capitalizing on the dance craze with former NFL player and Dancing with the Stars’ 2006 champ Emmitt Smith acting as its celeb spokesperson. Dozens of dance steps are offered, from tango and two-step to polka and waltz.

Singles Welcome
As a neophyte, you might consider picking up some moves within the friendly confines of a country music club such as Desperado’s, in Macomb County’s nightlife hub Mount Clemens, or the Diamondback Saloon in Belleville, known for its great live music and energetic dance scene. Country line dancing is fun because you don’t need a partner (but you can have one), the steps are relatively easy to learn, and the music is infectious and inviting.
If you are already comfortable as a social dancer, consider swing and/or Latin. There are plenty of opportunities to learn both styles here in metro Detroit, with the hottest action found in the western suburbs and Ann Arbor.

Sky Club in nightlife-heavy Royal Oak is one of the most popular Latin dance destinations in town and lessons are always on tap. Or check out Ann Arbor’s swing-dance club circuit, in which independent groups stage their own affairs, including instruction, welcoming even the partner-free.

Getting Sticky
A few pieces of advice: Always wear comfortable shoes and clothing for dancing (ladies, don’t mess around on three-inch-plus heels unless you are experienced) and seek out spots with spacious dance floors made of wood.

“Wood floors are easier on your joints. If you don’t have traditional dance shoes that are buffed on the soles, wood floors make your moves smoother,” advises Rudd. “Street shoes are hard to dance in, especially for women. Never wear athletic shoes for dancing, too sticky,” she adds.

And if you’d like to review your many Detroit-area dance options, with and without instruction, get online. At www.detroit.metromix.com, you can search among all the local dance clubs; www.detroitsalsadance.com specializes in Latin; and at Rudd’s www.dancemichigan.com, check out the helpful list of Michigan dance clubs and studios, and the calendar of independent, non-nightclub dances.

Kim Silarski is a copy editor for Visit Detroit magazine. She is not very physically coordinated and was grateful to receive this assignment.

Editor's Note: After the fall 2008 issue of Visit Detroit magazine went to print, Desperado's of Macomb County closed.