Ballroom is Back!
Tara and Rush Behnke
On Tuesday nights from now through the end of March, ballroom dancing is back at the US Hotel. This season, dance events promoted by Jacksonville’s Rush Behnke, will feature weekly lessons and dances starting on Tuesday, October 2nd. “On Tuesday nights,” Rush says, “We’re offering two one-hour classes…from 6:30 to 7:30, we have beginning ballroom and from 7:30 to 8:30, we’ll offer Night Club two-step.” You don’t need a partner. The cost is $8 per person per class or $25 for four classes (for four consecutive classes, non-refundable). “With the beginning ballroom class, we offer two styles of dance each night.”
Last year, when Behnke initiated bringing ballroom back to Jacksonville, he learned a few things. “Thanks to the efforts of many, it looks like there’s strong promise for dance in Jacksonville. While I think we got it right that dance could make a comeback after being silent for decades, we learned that having dance classes more than one night a week was too ambitious. And, although rotating partners for most students is best and helps one learn more, it still won’t be mandatory.”
Behnke says, “The US Hotel Ballroom floor has become my favorite dance floor in the entire valley. It’s large enough for a full-scale Waltz, Foxtrot, or Quick Step, and it’s just right for turning and maneuvering with dance shoes.”
Ballroom Dance at US Hotel
Yes, Behnke said dance shoes! “Just like any other sport,” he says emphatically, “you really need special shoes to dance your best. Good dance shoes cost $60 to $200 and immediately make dancing easier. But, if you’re not ready to plunk down the money for dance shoes just yet, be sure to show up with comfortable shoes.”
Rush reflects, “Last year, a number of students became quite good dancers. For those returning this year, it usually comes back really fast. Dance is an excellent aerobic exercise as well as a way of connecting your brain with new motor skills and balance. Dancing is as much about socializing as it is about experiencing the clearest human expression of music.”
Behnke is quick to tell anyone interested in the social aspect of dance that he met his wife, Tara, on the dance floor!
Weekly dance classes aren’t the only event Behnke is offering dance fans. On the last Saturday of every month, a monthly dance will be held at the US Hotel Ballroom (December date to be announced). “Our once-a-month dances provide a venue to show off what you’ve learned and a chance for those who already love dancing to enjoy an evening of fun. This is a nice time to practice and socialize and see accomplished dancers dance as well.” The once-a-month events will feature a no-host bar and fruit and cheese trays offered by the Jacksonville Inn.
In addition to his effort to bring ballroom back, Behnke offers private lessons at his own private studio for $45 an hour for those wanting to excel or for those preparing for a wedding or other special occasion.
For more information, please contact Rush at 541-951-3617, go to www.rushbehnke.com, or email rush@rushbehnke.com