Lace up your shoes on May 31, 2025 for an afternoon of Balboa Classes and an evening of Social Dancing with Yoshi and Etsuko Uemura.
4 Classes for everyone & 1 Social Dance!
Passes go on sale April 19 at noon at our SDAV Square Shop!
12:30pm - Doors Open
1:00pm - Class 1
2:15pm - Class 2
3:30pm - Class 3
4:45 pm - Class 4
6:00pm - Everyone Out for Dinner
9:00pm - Doors Open for Social Dancing
12:00am - Everyone Out
*schedule may be subject to change
For this workshop, you MUST know the Balboa basics. These Classes are recommended for dancers who are comfortable with balboa basics (up and down holds/regular and break rhythm), dancing balboa socially, and have a desire to learn more. Be prepared for challenging classes.
Class 1: Pure Balboa Fundamentals
In this class, we'll focus on essential Balboa technique: posture, arm and body position, and partner connection. We'll work on establishing a consistent pulse, mastering basics on the spot, and creating smooth flow. Also, introducing some basic styling that can apply to your own styling.
Class 2: Pure Balboa Flow
You'll learn traveling basics, box basic, and footwork variations. We'll also introduce key transitions, including come-around basics, scoots, and paddles, with directional paddle work to build versatility and control.
Class 3: Pure Balboa Advanced Basics and Direction Changes
This class builds on Balboa fundamentals with a focus on different timing of hold. We'll explore variations different timing of holds, mixing them for dynamic movement. We'll also practice traveling in multiple directions to increase your control, and connection on the dance floor.
Class 4: Pure Balboa Movement
This class is designed to be ready to push their Balboa to the next level. We'll focus on combining technique, rhythm, and movement into a cohesive and responsive dance.
The Swing Dance Association of Victoria has a Financial Assistance Fund to help dancers who require financial assistance to attend Swing Dance Association of Victoria workshops and events. If you need to access the Financial Assistance Fund please email us at hello@swingvictoria.net
You can learn about the fund or contribute to the fund here: https://www.swingvictoria.net/faq/financial-assistance-fund
Solwood Studio
303 Broad St, Victoria, BC V8W 2A8
note: there is a steep staircase to go up to access the studio.
Hailing from Japan, currently live in Seattle, USA, with the passion of the swing dance since 2001, Yoshi and Etsuko Uemura are experts in Pure Balboa, bringing a distinctive style to their dancing, performances, and workshops. They focus on the classic style and aesthetics with smooth footwork, yet innovative forward thinking concept, ensuring a strong lead-follow communication on the dance floor. Whether it's a workshop, social dance, or competition, they will bring the joy and excitement of Pure Balboa to the dance floor.
Yoshi and Etsuko have been the finalists of the Pure Balboa Contest at California Balboa Classic since 2017, and they took home the championship title in 2023, and the 2nd place in 2025.
Indoor shoes for dancing are a must. We recommend shoes with suede or leather soles.
Water bottle. Stay hydrated.
Towel. Stay dry.
Wearing a mask is encouraged for events. If you are asking a person who is wearing a mask to dance or chat, please ask them if you should wear a mask. Masks are available for your use at events (for free).
For the safety of attendees with allergies and sensitivities, please avoid wearing strong scents (perfume, cologne, scented lotion) at all SDAV events.
By registering for this event I agree to adhere to the Swing Dance Association of Victoria’s Code of Conduct
By registering for this event I agree to the Swing Dance Association of Victoria’s Cancellation Policy
By registering for this event I agree to the Swing Dance Association of Victoria’s Covid Plan
By registering for this event I agree to the Swing Dance Association of Victoria’s Event Waiver