Slow Bal Classes – Beginner & Int/Adv

When
Where

McMenamins Kennedy School

SLOW BALBOA SUNDAYS

February & March Classes

We invite you to begin your Slow Bal learning journey or enhance your Slow Bal skills. We are offering both beginner level and int/ adv level classes this session.

9 Week Session:
February: 2/1, 2/8, 2/15, 2/22
March: 3/1, 3/8, 3/15, 3/22, 3/29

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Beginner Class 6:15-7:45pm
9 Week Progressive Series
Feb: Rachael Reis & Mary Meru
March: Instructors TBD

1 hr of instruction, 30 min of optional guided practice

Let’s learn the Slow Balboa Basics!

This class is made for Beginners as well as Refreshers and Switchers – aka people who want to experience the other role.

We will cover…
Basic movements: Partnered Connection, Upright Posture, Intentional Movement, Clear Weight Placement, Balance, and Presence.
A variety of classic Slow Bal moves:
The Dean’s Raftery Basic, Come-Around, Slow-Out, Promenade, and much more.

No prior experience or partner necessary.
Some knowledge of balboa is helpful, but not required.

What is Slow Bal? Slow Balboa is a close-embrace swing dance style applied at slower tempos, generally 70-100 beats per minute (bpm). It emphasizes subtle footwork, deep connection, and musical interpretation. Think of it as the “hug dance” – a cozy, expressive cousin to traditional Balboa.

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Int/ Adv Class 7:45-9:15pm
Rod Young & Rachael Reis

1 hr of instruction, 30 min of optional guided practice

Advance your Slow Bal skills and confidence

Our Continuation Classes focus on dynamic movement, advanced techniques, skill improvement, and the art of dancing small with intention. Learn new moves and stylings, and build confidence for dancing to those perfect for cozy tempos.

*** Prerequisites for Int/ Adv Level ***
Dean’s Basic, Promenade, Come-Around, and Slow-Out or Instructor’s approval

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$15 Per Class
Cash or Vemo at the door
No pre-registration needed

Where: McMenamins Kennedy School –
Community Room
5736 NE 33rd Ave; PDX 97211

We recommend bringing water bottles and shoes with smooth soles.

As not everyone uses social media, we have a specific email list for Slow Bal classes, updates, and weekly class reminders. If you want to join our e-email list, which we encourage you to do, please DM Mary Meru, Rachael Reis, Rod Young, or Beth Young, or touch base with us in person.

We hope to see you out dancing!
Rod, Rachael, Mary and Beth

Feel free to reach out if you have questions, concerns, or financial limitations.
Contact: Mary Meru via DM