January is cha-cha time! The cha-cha (or cha-cha-cha) is a lively and fun dance that really gets you moving on the dance floor. The dance is of Cuban origin and was introduced by a Cuban composer in the early 1950s.Like the rumba and mambo, cha-cha takes the slower steps of both and adds a quicker triple step. The name of the dance is said to be derived from the shuffling sound of the dancers’ feet as they perform that triple step. Cha-cha has become a must learn for beginning dance students and has gained popularity due to its simplicity and energy.
Your instructors are Dave Poferl and Judy Saks. Dave is an experienced instructor who has been teaching since 2015. He has taught many dances with club member Mary Borkovec and, most recently, taught west coast swing with Dottie Adams. This is Judy’s first venture into teaching ballroom dance. She has been ballroom dancing for four years and has been an avid line dancer since 2008. The cha-cha is a favorite dance for both Dave and Judy, and they are eager to share their love of this dance with you!
Beginner level classes are held on Sundays in the MountainView Ballroom from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., and again on Tuesdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Intermediate level class is held on Sundays in the MountainView Ballroom, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., and on Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. The first class for both beginner and intermediate starts on Sunday, January 5, 2025.
January Novice ClassesIf you are new to dancing, or have not danced in a while, check out our novice classes. Taught by our resident professionals, Dale and Ann Pizzitola, these classes are free, and you do not need to be a member of the SBDC. The first class is on Wednesday, January 8, and will focus on foxtrot and rumba. The second class is on Wednesday, January 15, and tango and hustle will be taught. Classes are held in the Mariposa Room at DesertView and begin at 4 pm. There will also be a Novice Practice Party on Wednesday, January 22, in the Mariposa Room at 4 pm. This party is designed to give you an opportunity to practice what you have just learned.
Practice Makes “Perfect”Well, if not exactly “perfect,” practice makes things better. And dancers have several opportunities each month to practice and improve upon what they have learned in their classes. Open practice sessions are held on Mondays and Fridays in the Vermilion Room, HOA-1, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Please visit our website at to register for all classes and to keep informed of upcoming events and activities. Remember: The SaddleBrooke Ballroom Dance Club is where the learning continues, and the fun never ends.
Extra! Extra! Special Announcement!The SaddleBrooke Ballroom Dance Club is having a membership event on Saturday, January 11 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Think Dancing with The Stars! Pomp and Circumstance! Best of all… non-members are welcome to attend our first ever Team Match Exhibition. Join us to see what the excitement is all about.
Tucson chocolatier to open new location on Broadway
