i am 16 and have always wanted to dance. i have printed dance steps off this site and practiced in every spare second that i have. Once i was asked if i did ballroom dancing when a whole table of people watched me all night at a restaurant. but im still unsure that i might be embarrased turining up to a studoi with no one to dance with as i have no one to be my partner. and not knowing anyone at the studio and me being the only one that is unsur of what to do. please can some give me advice!

Amanda:

Find a studio to take some lessons. You might be surprised that many studios have teen programs designed for your age group. And finally you will find dance studios to be the most friendly place for learning. Let us know what city you are and perhaps someone will direct you to a good studio.

Check out www.dancecharisma.com this is a studio in Vegas that has teen programs and many active teens of all ages. Some pictures in the link too !!!

Disclaimer: I don't own the studio (I am just a promoter of teen's ballroom dancing.)

As the others have mentioned, you should check out the local studios to see what is available. You shouldn't worry about being embarassed that you don't know how to dance. Studios are used to teaching beginners and they have beginner classes to help newcomers learn the basics. Not having a partner is also not a problem. This is a very common problem and studios work around this by switching partners in class. If you take private lessons you can partner with your instructor.

Blair

Also, check your local Community Center/ Rec Center for group classes. Those are usually over several weeks, great for basics, and cheap.

Also, for support think about taking a girlfriend with you, or your mom. I see that all the time.

To get over shyness, find a dance school with group lessons. If there isn't a teen class, dance with older folks. (You wouldn't be as self conscious of mistakes with people out of your age group.) Research any ballroom that has ballroom dancing. That is a fine place to practice if they have single folks attending. Here in Houston TX the Melody Ballroom has a dance on Tuesday nights.
I envy you starting your dancing this early in your life.