GIFT CERTIFICATES
Does the Century Ballroom offer Gift Certificates?
Yes! We offer seperate gift certificates for the following:
- Classes
- Cover charges
- Cafe/bar
Our most popular gift certificates are for classes. A gift certificate for a five week class series for one person is $60, and for two people is $120, but you may purchase one for any amount.
How do I purchase a Gift Gertificate?
Call our office at 206 324-7263. We can either mail one to you or arrange for you to pick it up. Be sure to tell us if our return address should not be on the envelope - we hate to spoil surprises!
Can I purchases a Gift Certificate good for Private Lessons?
Sorry, we can't offer gift certificates for private lessons, since those are paid directly to the instructor.
Can I purchases a Gift Certificate good for dinner and a dance?
At present we issue separate gift certificates for classes, cover charges and cafe/bar. We are happy to issue a combination of gift certificates so that you can give an evening at the Century as a gift.
I received a Gift Certificate for a series of classes. How do I redeem it?
Using our online registrtation system, select the 'pay by check' option. At the end of the registrtaion process is a comment field where you can add a note that you are using a Gift Certificate. You can also call our office at 206 324-7263 and register over the phone. Be sure to bring the Gift Certificate to the first day of class.
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 no later than two weeks into class. 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 less the $5 processing fee and $15/class for classes attended. Just call us at 206 324-7263 or E-mail Us.
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.
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
How do I purchase tickets to a show?
Advance tickets to our special shows (live music, performances, etc.) are available:
1. Online, using the 'Buy' links on our website.
2. Call Ticket Window at 206 325-6500 between Noon and 6 PM, Tuesday - Sunday.
3. In person at Ticket/Ticket locations (Broadway Market, Pike Place Market, Pacific Plance and Meydenbauer Center). Cash transactions avoid ticket fees.
4. For live Salsa and Swing dance events you may purchase advance tickets at the door during regular events
Regular dances do not require advance purchase.
Where do I pick up my tickets?
Tickets purchased online or over the phone through Ticket Window are available at the door. Please be prepared to show ID.
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.
RESTAURANT
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 free 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 $4/evening.
Is the Century Ballroom Handicapped Accessible?
Yes! There is an elevator in the building, and we are happy to let wheelchairs in through doors that are free of obstacles. 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.