My feeling as I came for my first few lessons was mostly fear. Fear of not being able to learn the dances, of stepping on someone's toes, and of embarrassing myself and my wife somehow. I was worried I could not learn ""fancy"" dance steps because I have basically zero dance abilities, except for an occasional twist, or bump, or bunny hop at a wedding. Well, I was relieved to find that after two or three lessons my fears dissipated. I thank the instructors for that. In our private lessons our instructor, Shawna, is an expert in teaching very basic dance moves to beginners. She was very kind and supportive throughout and made the lessons fun. Secondly, in our group lessons I found out quickly that almost everyone there was a beginner just like me; and the lessons are taught at a slow, simple pace that everyone in class can catch on to. Like me, many people were making small mistakes and no one really even noticed. After all, we're beginners and mistakes are a part of learning something new. I found that it just takes practice to get the steps right. The instructors and teaching methods were supportive and geared to the beginner dancer. Thanks Drew(he taught most of the group classes). \r
Another experience I have had at Arthur Murray was gaining an enjoyment of dancing. I came as a courtesy to my wife and did not really expect to have much fun at it. It was for her after all. I was just tagging along because I'm the husband; it's my job. I was surprised that when I loosened up a bit and tried to have fun, I had a great time. I met some new people, laughed a lot and kept on trying my dance steps.. I'm still not very good, but I'm getting better and having fun just dancing with my wife. After these experiences, I have recommended Arthur Murray to friends and family. It's actually fun! \r
So, in summary, my advice is to laugh, have a good time, keep trying and the steps will come, and listen to the instructors. They've taught a lot of beginners like me. \r
Thank you to all the dance instructors at Arthur Murray in Costa Mesa for a great experience in dancing.
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