The confused person’s guide to selecting their dancing grounds

My niece Natasha Koshti, who runs her dance classes in the UK, called me some time ago asking me which dance class she should join to enhance her Bollywood dancing skills. She wanted to come down to Mumbai for a month and learn the dance. After a discussion, I told her to make her choice, and she is finally here for her advance course in Bollywood dance. I would like to share with you what I told her. When choosing a particular studio or a method of learning any dance, you must first answer the following basic questions. Your answers will determine the keys required to evaluate a studio, and whether it is fit for you or not.

What is the most important element in your dancing This question is most important. If your answer is to learn dance for FUN, or pure enjoyment — stay with the inexpensive ways of learning to dance. However, if your answer involves the need to have the best elements of learning, for instance the technique to be “better than the average dancer”, or for a competition, your best decision would be to choose the studio which you feel can address your needs in the best way possible.

How much are you willing to spend Before choosing any studio, you must decide what your yearly or monthly budget is. To decide your budget before you look for a studio makes your search hasslefree and more convenient.

Why do you dance Ensure that you understand why you enjoy dancing or at least why you want to dance. Since, it is only you who knows the real reason, it will help you decide where to attend the classes. For example, some people dance because it gives them a workout time with their spouse, while others dance to acquire self-confidence. Some dance to be able to meet new people. It is important that you determine what drives you to dance. Do you want/need the social benefits of belonging to a particular studio Belonging to a particular studio is just like having a membership at a high profile club. It is the place you belong to. It meets your social needs and gives you the benefits you’re looking for. Is this something that you believe you want in your life Ensure you know the answer.

What is the philosophy of the studio and its owners Check out what the basic philosophy of the studio is. Does it strive to teach people how to dance Or is it about perfecting the technique of a dance Is it about teaching people how to enjoy dancing or doing it the right way Is making the studio owners look good at a competition with students who perform well, their goal Or is it a combination of the above Ask these questions and analyse the answers. Try to reason if their philosophy complements your needs.

What classes are available What various kinds of lessons are available Are these private, group, practice sessions, specialised course for a few weeks, coaching lessons What other services are provided What special activities is the studio planning to participate in Does the studio regularly attend competitions, shoot, shows Again, see how the answers to these question match up with your reasons for dancing and the social aspects you are looking for.

What level of training or accomplishments have the owners and teachers achieved This is a critical question. Ensure that the individuals who are teaching you have qualifications that will improve your dancing and give you a competitive edge. Ask for the personal accomplishments of the teachers. The ability to teach another individual is not inherent in a good dancer. Winning competitions does not make you a better dance trainer either. Ask about the method of teaching that the studio provides. Ask for the policy they adhere to with respect to extra coaching from outside, especially check the charge for these lessons. If competing in reality shows is your prime objective, check the ability of the studio to offer choreography. Especially critical to a well-performed routine is often the movements and the transition between steps. Not all individuals are equally trained or have the creative ability to offer good choreography.

What is the atmosphere of the studio Is the physical setting of the studio pleasing to you Does it make you feel like dancing Does it relax you, calm you and yet entice your feet to move Sit back and enjoy the setting of the studio, look around at the surroundings and observe the atmosphere of the studio. Ensure you feel good when you’re there. Do the teachers make you feel comfortable and welcome on a consistent basis Are students treated equally and fairly Check these, as it matters in the long run.

What is the student opinion about the studio Are people happy with the service that they’ve received from the studio Did they receive what was promised to them Are they happy with how they are treated Do they believe they are getting their money’s worth Does everyone have to compete to be special in the school Do they push students to spend more money These pressures can make it uncomfortable. Most importantly, however, is that students feel welcome in the studio. They must feel as a part of the studio and that they can contribute positively to the experience of others too.

Fees for services The last question that must be answered is regarding fees. How much will it cost you in a month or year All you have to do is ask the studio owners and they will give you this information. Ensure that prices are the same for everyone. Be careful if the pricing information varies from student to student Specifically, ensure that you completely understand exactly what lessons are included in the deal that you have signed up for. I am happy that Natasha has made her choice to learn under the expert guidance of legendary Saroj Khan and her dance studio in Mumbai.