Balboanorth hold PPL and PRS licences so that writers, artists, musicians and publishers are paid for the music we use
What is Balboanorth?
Providing Balboa & Balswing dance classes in Leeds, Balboanorth is the first place in the city to teach this historic American swing dance. Beginners classes every Tuesday from 8pm - 8.45pm with improvers/intermediate from 9.15pm - 10.00pm. Social dance/practice to 10.30pm. You can find us right next to the new Waitrose store at the Meanwood Methodist Church Hall in Monk Bridge Road (see map). The cost is £4.00 for one class £5.00 for two (cons £3.00/£4.00) - a partner is useful but not vital as we always rotate partners to improve your lead and follow skills. Since we use a church hall, no alcohol is allowed but we are only a few yards away from East of Arcadia. We provide tea, coffee and biscuits free of charge and have bottled water available at cost. There is on street parking and regular buses.
What is Balboa?
An authentic American swing dance which evolved in the 1930‘s in the crowded dancehalls of Orange County, California. Originally danced to Big Band swing, it can be done to slow, medium or fast music from any era. Balboa/Balswing is currently one of the fastest growing dance forms enjoying a huge revival in the USA, France, Belgium, Germany, Sweden, Russia, Australia and the UK. In fact if you go to a swing dance anywhere in the world, you're probably going to see someone doing Balboa. If you've never seen it before - take a look at these clips from the Balboa Finals at the International Lindy Hop Championships this year.
Who are the stars of Balboa?
Significant names from the history of Balboa include the late Willie Dessatoff and his partner Lila, Dean Raftery, Bart Bartolo, Maxie Dorff, Hal & Marge Takier. Contemporary stars include Nick Williams, David Rehm, Jeremy Oth & Laura Keate, Marty Klempner, Andreas Ollson, Valerie Salstrom, Bobby White & Kate Hedin, Anne Helene & Bernard Cavassa, Adam Speen & Nelle Cherry, Micky Fortanasce & Kelly Arsenault and the undisputed ‘Queen of Balboa', Sylvia Sykes. In the UK Mel & Jo Calanglang, Janet Davis & Chris Riddick and of course Dan Guest, co-founder with Christi Rankin of the annual London Balboa Festival.
Please remember that dancing is a physical activity and if you are unsure, please consult your GP. Balboanorth will take every reasonable precaution to maintain your health and safety but cannot be held responsible for any loss or injury if you have agreed to take part.