Strictly Social Dance Club is a friendly ballroom and social dancing club near Okehampton, run for people who want to learn and enjoy dancing together. It welcomes complete novices as warmly as those with some experience. The atmosphere is informal and sociable, with a strong emphasis on fun. It suits anyone in the area who fancies taking up ballroom in a relaxed, unpressured setting.
Members describe brilliant, patient teaching that works for all levels and a great deal of laughter along the way, with beginners quickly finding their feet. It is ideal for people worried they have two left feet, as the encouragement and good humour put nerves to rest.
Sessions introduce ballroom dancing through clear, patient tuition that suits novices and more experienced dancers alike. The informal, friendly format means you can learn the steps, timing and hold without feeling out of your depth. Many members arrive as complete beginners and steadily build a repertoire over the months. The teaching is described as endlessly encouraging, with real patience for those just starting out.
A first visit is relaxed and sociable, with no experience assumed and plenty of reassurance on hand. Wear something comfortable you can move in and bring shoes with smooth soles that let you turn easily. You will be eased in gently and are there above all to enjoy yourself.
The club meets at a venue near Okehampton and is best reached by contacting the organisers for directions and session details.
We have been attending Terry and Nathalie's "Strictly Social' dances since January 2022. They are brilliant! We were complete novices and their teaching is fantastic and works for all levels. We have never laughed as much but almost without knowing it we have learnt so much since starting. We would highly recommend the group to any wanting to have a go at dancing. The groups are very friendly and you can learn at your own pace in a no pressure environment and above all have fun. Charles and Jo.— Charles Gillespie
When the wife said ' shall we go ballroom dancing " I thought not with my 2 left feet…nearly 12 months on and 1 summer ball under my belt it's been absolutely brilliant all down to Terry and Nathalies tutoring I would recommend these classes to anyone absolute beginner or more advanced they cater for both so well …thank you both— James Pattison
I would highly recommend Terry and Natalie's class to anyone wishing to take up ballroom dancing, either as a novice or with some experience. The classes are very friendly and informal. Terry and Natalie are very encouraging and have infinite patience with the likes of myself!— Karen Batson
We have been attending Terry and Nathalie's classes for almost a year now. They are friendly and fun and I can recommend it for both beginners and improvers. Terry adapts the teaching to suit different levels of ability.— Carol Casini
Yes, many people come along without a partner, and social dance sessions often rotate so everyone gets to dance. You do not need to bring anyone to take part.
Comfortable clothing you can move freely in works well, along with smooth-soled shoes that let you turn on the floor. Bring water and avoid anything too restrictive.
Costs depend on the session and whether you attend casually or regularly. It is best to contact the organisers for current prices.
Ballroom staples such as the waltz suit beginners well thanks to their steady rhythm. The friendly, informal setting makes almost any first dance approachable.
Ballroom is a popular and sociable choice for adults, especially in a relaxed club setting. Pick whichever style you find most enjoyable, as that keeps you coming back.
Gentle social dancing can be enjoyable activity for some people, but anyone with a heart condition should consult their doctor first. Always follow professional medical advice on suitable exercise.