CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS
What is a lead? What is a follow?
Traditionally, the man is the lead and the woman is the follow. At the Century Ballroom, we don't feel constricted by these roles, and you will see women leading and men following (many dancers do both). While both partners do the same basic step, the lead will direct, or "lead", which moves are done with their partner.
Why is the class I want only open for leads (or only open for follows)?
Because you do not need a partner to register for our classes, we need to control registration to keep the classes balanced. If we let too many of one role into a class, those people won't be able to dance enough during class to learn easily.
What should I wear to class?
The most important thing is to have shoes that are comfortable and that you plan to dance in. They should allow you to slide a little, so a leather or a suede sole is ideal. No street shoes in the Loft, please
Dress in what you are comfortable in; it does get warm in class.
Do I need a partner?
No. We work to keep an equal number of leads and follows in our classes so that you will have someone to dance with. We rotate partners throughout class so that you have a chance to dance with everyone.
What if I don't want to rotate?
No problem. You're welcome to dance with the same person during the entire class. The other students will rotate past you. We recommend rotating to speed up the learning curve and to help you prevent developing bad habits.
How do I register for classes and workshops?
1. Register online!
2. Mail in your registration using the form in our monthly flyer
3. Call us at 206 324-7263 between 10:30a-4:30p, Mon-Fri
4. Register at class (but be sure to show up early and remember we cannot guarantee there will be space for you)
I am concerned about giving my credit card information online
We are partnered with PayPal for our online transactions so that you have the safety of using a secured system to submit your credit card information. If you are not comfortable with this, you can opt to pay by check. Remember, to receive the pre-registration discount we must receive your payment one week prior to class.
I'm having problems registering online
The majority of our users do not experience any problems, but as with any online system, problems can sometimes occur. Here are some tips that you may find useful:
- You must set your browser to accept cookies. If you are blocking cookies our system will not work, though you may not receive an error message.
- Some of the screens in our registration process open in new windows. Because of this you may need to disable popup blockers for our site.
- You are always welcome to call or email us with any problems you may be encountering. The more detailed information you can provide about how far you got before the problem started, what type of computer and internet browser you are using, any error messages you received, etc., the easier it will be for us to help you, and prevent the problem from occuring in the future. Failing that, we can always cancel any registration that was started and handle your transaction over the phone
Can I get a refund for classes?
Yes. There is a $5 fee for all class refunds, and you must contact our office to cancel. You can avoid the fee by instead receiving a credit towards a future class or workshop. You will be refunded or credited the amount you paid, prorated at the drop in price for your class for the number of classes attended. Just call us at 206 324-7263 or email Classes@CenturyBallroom.com.
Can I pay per class?
You may drop into any of our classes if you have already taken the class, and if there is room for you in the class that day. Couples may drop in if they have not taken the class before provided they don't rotate partners. Please check in with the instructors upon arrival. Drop Ins are $15 / 1 hr class and $20 / 1.5 hr class.
DANCES
Why can't I bring a water bottle to dances?
As with any restaurant, we do not permit outside food and beverages to be brought onto the premises. Because we serve alcohol, we are subject to Washington State Liquor Control Board and Health Department regulations.
Do I need to buy dance tickets in advance?
No, unless it is live music. In that case you may want to purchase in advance to ensure you are able to get in and to take advantage of discounted advance sales. However, not all dances have advance ticket sales.
SHOWS AND CONCERTS
Are shows All Ages?
All of our shows are 21+ unless marked otherwise. If you have questions regarding a particular show, please consult our website.
Can I get a refund for a show?
There are no refunds or exchanges for advance ticket sales. All Concert/Live Music sales are final.
I'm having dinner at a show. Is there a minimum charge?
There is a $10/person minimum food charge for diners at our shows.
What if someone in my party does not show up for our dinner reservation?
The $10 minimum charge will be added to your table's bill.
Is the menu different for shows?
Yes. Because of the number of people that need to be served in a short amount of time, we have a slightly reduced selection at shows. There will always be a vegetarian option. Please feel free to contact us if you have specific menu concerns.
GENERAL
Where is the Century Ballroom?
We have a Map and Directions.
What about Parking?
There is street parking throughout the neighborhood.
If you are unable to locate a spot, we recommend using the Seattle Central Community College Garage two blocks west of us at E Pine and Harvard Ave E. They normally charge $5/evening.
Is the Century Ballroom Handicapped Accessible?
Yes! There is an elevator in the building, and restrooms which are fully ADA compliant. In addition, the 10th Avenue East entrance to the building has a ramp. Please ask us for any assistance you may need.
Didn't answer your question?
E-mail the Century Ballroom or call us at 206 324-7263.