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A Diaspora Dance Company
Enriching Lives Through Fun in Motion
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What kind of shoes should I wear?We recommend shoes with leather or suede soles. If you don't have dance shoes, choose shoes with minimal traction, like dress shoes, some tennis shoes with smoother soles, or flats.
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What is a course?A course is a month long series of classes which are of a specific genre/subject and a specific level. The course-classes are held once a week, so each course usually consists of 4 classes per month (sometimes 5)
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What is the difference between Salsa and Mambo?The main difference is the count on which the break step is taken. In Salsa, the break step is on the "1" (dancing on1), whereas in Mambo, it's on the "2" (dancing on2). There’s more to it, so join the classes to learn about the history, rhythms, and styles.
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What is the difference between a course-class and a stand-alone class?A course-class is part of a progressive series within a course, building on previous lessons. A stand-alone class does not build on previous sessions and can be taken independently.
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When can I take an evaluation?Evaluations are usually conducted at the end of a cycle, but can also be scheduled at any time during the cycle at the student's request. Special evaluations cost $50.
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Do you offer private lessons?Yes, we offer private lessons. You can book directly with the instructor of your choice. Private lessons are excellent for advancing more quickly in your dance journey.
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Is there a drop-in option?Yes, drop-ins are available for some classes, like Zumba, Yoga, and footwork. However, for progressive courses like Salsa, Mambo, Bachata, and Rueda, drop-ins are not available.
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How much are classes?Pricing varies depending on the type of lesson, class, or course. You can find the pricing list at www.rastasalsadance.com/purchase-pass.
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What is a cycle?A cycle is a 6-month series of courses where students progress through increasingly challenging classes within each level (e.g., 101 -> 102 -> 103). At the end of the cycle, students may retake the current level to solidify their knowledge or opt for an evaluation to test into the next level. Advancement is based on demonstrated proficiency.
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Do you have practice sessions?Yes, some practice sessions are organized by our students. We have a WhatsApp group where they coordinate their sessions.
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How do I know what level class I should sign up for?To determine your level, attend one of our evaluation sessions at the end of each month. This helps ensure you're placed in the appropriate level to match your skills, as our courses are progressive.
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How do I sign up for classes?You can pay the drop-in fee at the studio upon arrival. For courses, we recommend registering online at www.somos.dance, where you can select the course you want to join.
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What is the evaluation?The evaluation is an assessment for students who want to demonstrate proficiency and eligibility to move to the next level. It usually occurs at the end of a cycle but can be conducted at any time upon request. The evaluation costs $50 and is based on predetermined rubrics.
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Do I need a partner to take a class?No you do not need a partner to participate in our classes. If you have a partner, that's great. But if you do not have one, a partner would be provided to you at the class. We generally rotate partners throughout the class, this also gives you the opportunity to meet new people and have fun.
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What does "Somos" mean?"Somos" means "We Are." It represents unity and the family of Somos. We offer a safe, inclusive space where people from all backgrounds can learn to dance, have fun, and express themselves without fear of judgment.
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What should I wear to dance classes?Wear comfortable clothing such as workout attire (leggings, sweatpants, shorts, T-shirts) or casual clothing.
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What is the difference between a class and a course?A class is a single 1-hour (50 min) session focused on a specific genre or subject. It can be a stand-alone session or part of a progressive series of classes, known as a course. A course is a month-long series of classes on a specific genre or subject and level, held once a week, usually totaling 4 classes per month (sometimes 5).
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What do the numbers following the course name mean?The course number is a three-number designation for each course in a given cycle. The numbers help identify the course's position within the series (Cycle). The first number represents the level, and the last number indicates the course position in the series. For example, Salsa 203 represents a Salsa level two course held in March (the third month).
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We're coming for a date night, what can we expect?That sounds wonderful! While we generally rotate partners, we understand this is a special night for you and your partner. If you prefer not to rotate, please inform the instructor at the beginning of the class.
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How are the levels organized?Levels categorize students by knowledge and skill, allowing them to progress through the curriculum. There are 3 levels at Somos: Level 1 (Basic Beginner), Level 2 (Intermediate Beginner), and Level 3 (Advanced Beginner). Students are evaluated at the end of each cycle to determine if they can advance to the next level.
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Where can I get dance shoes?We sell a few different styles of dance shoes at the studio. - Yami's a high-quality and comfortable brand. If we don't have the style you want, you can order online at www.yamishoes.com using our discount code SOMOSDANCESTUDIO. - Taygra's, for more sporty look. Visit www.taygra.shoes - Myziji dance shoes, with different and colorful styles. Visit: www.myzijidance.com
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Can I do a drop-in for any class?No, drop-ins are not available for all classes. Some classes, like Zumba, Yoga, and footwork, offer drop-in options, but courses like Salsa, Mambo, Bachata, and Rueda, which are progressive, do not have drop-in options.
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How do I register for classes?To register, visit the "Classes" page on our website (www.somos.dance) and select the course you wish to enroll in.
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