Whether you’re a professional dancer or a total newbie who has the itch to try it out — there’s a special business in Jersey City that caters to all different kinds of dancers. “Dance makes life better” is the slogan at Jersey City Ballroom, which was founded by professional dance and life partners, Shimkiri and Werner Figar, who are dedicated to creating a welcoming dance community for all levels. They stress that no dance partner is necessary to take a dance class or participate in their monthly dance socials and community events like Rumba & Rose {yes, please}.
Jersey City Ballroom is located in the Brunswick Center at 189 Brunswick Street {3rd floor} in Jersey City. This local business has quickly become the local go-to dance studio to learn a wedding dance, {whether it be for the bride and groom, father-daughter or mother-son} but they are more than just a wedding service. Group, private, and competitive dance instruction is taught by highly experienced teachers who are currently active in the dance community. You will find more genres of dance here than you even knew existed including — the Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz, Cha Cha, Rumba, Swing, Mambo, Bolero, Charleston, West Coast Swing, East Coast Swing, Samba, Paso Doble, Jive, Hustle, Merengue, Salsa, Bachata, Argentine Tango, Country 2-Step, and Night 2-Step.
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When taking a class here, you will instantly feel like a contestant on Dancing with the Stars. After all, founder Werner Figar was actually featured on Dancing with the Stars Austria. He and Shimkiri both have exceptional resumes, which include undefeated Edison ballroom champion, Vice-Champions of the NJ State Open, Rising Stars of the Dancing A La Carte, Alvin Ailey, Elisa Monte Dance, 3 times Austrian Champion, Dancing with the Stars Austria, Nike’s Dancing with the Reps — so you are sure to be working with the best.
Shimkiri and Werner host a Dance Congress each year that features two days of dance workshops taught by world-renowned dance instructors. Congress weekend kicks off with a catered brunch. Workshops are then held by nationally and internationally-acclaimed dancers like Lindy Hop and Swing specialists, Samantha, and Brian Lawton, and 3-time Bulgarian Latin Champion, Boriana Deltcheva. The dance-filled weekend closes with performances.
If you’re feeling a little shy, Jersey City Ballroom has monthly open houses that are open to the public so you can check out the studio, meet new people and try out some dance moves in a fun and inviting atmosphere.
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Have you been to JC Ballroom? Share your experience with us in the comments below!
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