Hi. I've been dancing and competing since 1983 in the International style of ballroom dancing. If you are with Arthur Murray, you are probably dancing in the American style.

You should find a dance partner who will share dance lessons and practice with you. This is always a challenge. I know Arthur Murray pushes the student-teacher showcases because it means more money to them. It is much more economical to dance with an Amateur partner. Your teacher should be able to advise you on which category you should dance in.

Preparing for dance competition takes a lot of time and practice. You need to be patient.

If you want to check out some of the popular competitions, check out http://www.usabda-norcal.org/.

Good Luck.

Hi Mikhail: If you're going to Arthur Murray (as your description indicated) just look at your monthly calendar and there's sure to be at least one competition listed for your area. There's even one in Cancun in October/November! And the DanceORama in Atlantic City in December (See you there). Your instructors certainly should know what comps that the studio is going to.

That said, competitions are great fun, but a LOT of work. They're usually full day events (at least). You can go and spectate, but really you'll want to compete in as many dances as you know (and can afford), otherwise you'll get bored. You seem to be mostly into the swing dances—you could do swing and wc swing in both open and closed categories, that'll make 4 events. But I'd recommend doing as much as you can. You'll need to practice with your partner specifically for the comp. It's not the same as a practice party or even a showcase. You may start out nervous, but then it becomes exciting.

Good luck!
Alicia
;-p