Oakland, CA – On Friday nights this Spring and Summer, Jack London Square will see sizzling salsa, tight turns, and elegant waltzes. But on this dance floor, there will be no judges and no one will be voted out. Jack London Square today announced Dancing Under the Stars, a summer of free outdoor dance classes open to the public. Over ten Friday night sessions, visitors will be treated to professional instruction in a range of popular steps, all on Oakland’s waterfront and by the light of the stars. Dancing Under the Stars will begin at 8:30 each Friday at the foot of Broadway from May 1st to July 3rd.
“Years ago, a night on the town meant dinner and dancing,” said Jim Ellis, Managing Principal of Ellis Partners LLC, the developers of Jack London Square. “We’re delighted to continue that grand tradition by offering free dance lessons to the local community, all within steps of the first-class restaurants that Jack London Square has to offer. The Oakland waterfront and the warm nights will provide the perfect setting for a romantic evening out.”
Instruction for Dancing Under the Stars will be provided by Linden Street Dance Studio. Located just blocks from Jack London Square, Linden Street Dance Studio has been offering classes in social and ballroom dance to beginning and advanced students since 2006. Their staff of professional instructors will guide students through each step with personalized attention. Experienced “dance hosts” will be on hand at each session to partner with participants. For those who wish to continue their exploration of dance beyond Dancing Under the Stars, Linden Street offers free group classes every Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights.
Dancing Under the Stars classes will be divided into three themes. The first three Friday nights will focus on Latin dances: Salsa, the Cha Cha, and Rumba. Jack London Square will serve as an elegant ballroom for the following three weeks when students practice the Waltz, American Tango, and Foxtrot. Dancing Under the Stars will close with four weeks of club dances: the Swing, Hustle, Argentine Tango, and a second class of Salsa. Guests need not bring a partner; couples and singles alike are welcome.
For those who work up an appetite on the dance floor, area restaurants will provide prix fixe menus on Friday nights during the Dancing Under the Stars. Cocina Poblana, Miss Pearl’s Jam House, Scott’s Seafood, Il Pescatore, Kincaids, and Hahn’s Hibachi will offer new menus each week with fresh seasonal ingredients.
Dancing Under the Stars Schedule 2009:
Rhythm of the Night: Latin Dances
May 1: Salsa; May 8: ChaCha; May 15: Rumba
Ballroom Bliss: Smooth Dances
May 22: Waltz; May 29: American Tango; June 5: Foxtrot
Stepping Out: Club Dances
June 12: Swing; June 29: Hustle; June 26: Argentine Tango; July 3: Salsa
About Linden Street Dance:
Linden Street Dance Studio was founded in 2006 by a group of professional instructors who wanted to teach in the style they knew works best. The studio offers group lessons as well as one-on-one sessions for all levels of experience. Their facility is located just a few blocks from Jack London Square. To schedule an appointment, or to learn more about Linden Street Dance Studio, visit www.lindendance.comor call (510) 444-3404.