Dancing Competition this Saturday in Los Angeles, CA!

One of our students, Don, is competing this Saturday at the Emerald Ball in Los Angeles! The Emerald Ball is one of the biggest ballroom dancing (aka Dancesport) competitions in the United States. He’ll be competing in the Pro/Am Division—which means he’ll be dancing with his instructor (Jennelle) and competing against other Amateur dancers that are in his age and level categories. It’s actually set-up a lot like “Dancing With the Stars.” We asked Don to answer a few questions about dancing and competing. Good luck on Saturday, Don!

Q and A with our student, Don.

Q: What do you like about competing?
A: It’s really fun! I never thought in a million years that I would be entering dance competitions! I love the sense of accomplishment it gives me and it’s a fun opportunity to perform.

Q: What are your favorite dances?
A: Swing and Cha Cha

Q: What’s the most challenging part of competing?
A: Maintaining focus. There are lots of distractions and you are in an unfamiliar room. It can be challenging to concentrate on the dance routines and my dancing when there is a lot of commotion.

Q: Why did you want to compete?
A: It creates a fun goal for my dancing and it’s a great sense of accomplishment.

Q: Any words of advice on the best way to prepare for a dance competition or performance?
A: It’s important to practice like you are performing. You need to simulate the experience so that when it’s show time you are prepared. It’s also important not to think about too many things at the same time while you’re dancing, so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

Thanks to Don for answering some of our dance competition questions! Best of luck to you in the competition on Saturday!