I have been with the same studio from the begining of my dancing life and never got exposed to other competitions or studios before. Now, I have realized that there is this whole other world of competitive dancing! I am ready to compete instead of mostly social dancing like i get at my studio. Where do I go to do this? I need to be pointed in some sort of directions. Help please!

Christina

"Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but she did it backwards and in high heels."

the first thing that you might try is visiting comps that are in your area...VA has comps in July and August (that I know of) you can check out info on these comps and others at: www.dancesportsuperbowl.com
Once you are at a comp, check the program to find what studios near you are competing...and don't be afraid to talk to the pros and amateurs from your area...dance people are notoriously friendly.
Another option is to check the pro and studio listings on web pages like ballroomdancers.com! They have a great listing system. Even if there is not one on the list that is as close as you like...you can call one that is semi-near and ask them who they know of in your area. You can also look for the USABDA (USAmateurBallroomDanceAssoc.) in your area, and they may be able to help you.
Whomever you find, be sure to check their dance history...this is a buyer beware industry, and all teachers are definitely NOT created equal! If you go to an actual comp you might be able to get a better idea about the teachers in your area. If money is an issue (when isn't it?) you also want to look for a teacher who has several people who regularly compete. In general, the more students going reduces the cost accordingly. Also, I suggest that you take a look at the independent (non-franchised) studios in your area. They often give you more dancing for your money. But again, be sure to check the credentials of any instructor...competition is "another world" as you put it, and you'll need a good guide
Have fun, there's nothing quite like competition dancing!

Thank you so much on all the information that you gave me. I got a lot of really good web sites to go to that gave me something to follow. By the way, you said to check their history. What things should I look for? How long they have danced, things they have won, how many students they have??

Thanks again!
Christina

"Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but she did it backwards and in high heels."

Hi Christina,
I see your in the DC area. There is a great web page for the Washington DC dancers, it has info on all the local competitions. In addition, most of the local dance studios advertise on it, so you can learn new places to go.

http://www.dcdancenet.com/

Hope this helps

Sandy