07/02/07

She'll make you move your hips =)

by vegitoboi

"Passion Dancing". When I first heard of this style which fused Ballroom/Latin, Hip Hop, Flamenco, and Belly dancing into one I was skeptical. But I took the chance and answered the ad. At my first lesson (and just beginning my dance hobby with a national chain studio), I found the training a bit "questionable", with the emphasis of feet placement and hip motions (advanced for someone who just started to dance). One year after to persent day and a new studio, I'm understanding why these instructions are crucial to becoming a good competative dancer. It's not just about the moves, but the execution of them as well. I have to say, Studio Ula La has one of the best technical instructions I've seen out of all the dance studios I've visited. Ula and her husband Matt have competed all over the US for years and work hard to perfect their routines for their quarterly performances. Her classes are for everyone who wants to learn; even kids classes are available. But if you really want to learn what "Passion" is, be apart of one of her formation teams starting at the beginners/intermediate levels where NO EXPERIENCE IS NECESSARY. If you think you already have what it takes (and the time on Saturdays too) then tryout for her advanced group. Of course, they have private lessons available for the everyday dancer to special events. If you're ever in Greektown, just look above Costa's Restaurant (Halsted & Van Buren) and find out what Passion is all about. By the way, if you just happen to catch the 8AM news on channel 5 on 7/22/07, yes that was her you saw (and her husband in the background) demonstrating her NEW Dance Aerobics class ; ) .

• Pros: TECHNICAL INSTRUCTION, NEW STUDIO, 1/2 a block from Blue Line UIC-Halsted stop, Kids Classes, Quarterly Exhibition Shows, Dance Aerobics Classes
• Cons: Parking, instruction may be too advanced for the beginner

Editorial Review

by Contributor

In either private lessons or group classes, these ballroom dance instructors teach to all levels from recreational to competitive.