New Malden is a vibrant suburb of London, and is home to a thriving ballroom dancing scene. Ballroom dancing is a popular pastime in the area, and a great way to meet new people and enjoy a fun and social activity.
The New Malden Ballroom Dance Club (NMBDC) is one of the most popular ballroom dancing clubs in the area, and has been running for over 30 years. The club offers a range of classes and activities for all ages and abilities, including beginner classes, social dances, and competitions.
The club is based at the New Malden Community Centre, which is conveniently located in the centre of the town. The centre offers a large and airy dance hall, as well as a bar and cafe area.
Ballroom dancing is a great way to keep fit and healthy, and the NMBDC offers a range of classes for all levels of experience. From beginner classes to advanced classes, there is something for everyone.
The club also organises regular social dances, which are a great way to meet new people and have fun. These social dances are held in various venues around the area, such as the New Malden Community Centre and local pubs and clubs.
The NMBDC also organises regular competitions, which are a great way to test your skills and compete against other dancers. The club also hosts an annual ballroom dancing competition, which attracts competitors from all over the country.
So, if you're looking for a great way to keep fit, meet new people, and have a great time, why not try ballroom dancing in New Malden? The New Malden Ballroom Dance Club is the perfect place to start!
History of Ballroom Dancing in New Malden
New Malden has a long and vibrant history of ballroom dancing that dates back to the early 20th century. The first ballroom dancing club in New Malden was established in 1929, with many more clubs opening up in the following decades.
Throughout the 20th century, New Malden was home to several popular ballroom dancing venues, such as the Regent Ballroom, the Royal Ballroom, and the Empire Ballroom. These venues regularly hosted large-scale ballroom dancing events, often attracting dancers from all over the country.
The Golden Age of Ballroom Dancing in New Malden
The 1950s and 1960s were a golden age for ballroom dancing in New Malden. During this time, the town was home to some of the most renowned ballroom dancing venues in the country, such as the Regent Ballroom and the Empire Ballroom.
These venues hosted regular dance nights, competitions, and performances by renowned dancers. The Regent Ballroom was particularly popular, hosting regular events and competitions that attracted dancers from all over the country.
The Decline of Ballroom Dancing in New Malden
As the popularity of ballroom dancing began to decline in the late 20th century, the number of ballroom dancing venues in New Malden began to dwindle. By the early 2000s, the Regent Ballroom and the Empire Ballroom had both closed down, leaving the town without a major ballroom dancing venue.
In recent years, however, there has been a resurgence of interest in ballroom dancing in New Malden. Several new ballroom dancing clubs have opened up in the town, and there are regular events and competitions held throughout the year.
Types of Ballroom Dancing Available in New Malden
Modern Ballroom
Modern Ballroom dancing is a style of ballroom dance that originated in the late 19th century. It is often seen in movies and television shows, and is a popular form of social dancing. Popular dances in the modern ballroom style include the Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, and the Tango.
Latin American
Latin American dancing is a style of ballroom dance that combines elements of many different Latin American dance styles. Popular dances in the Latin American style include the Cha-Cha, Samba, Rumba, and Paso Doble.
Social Ballroom
Social Ballroom dancing is a style of ballroom dance that is designed to be fun and enjoyable for all dancers. It is often seen in social events such as weddings and parties, and is a great way to get people of all ages and abilities involved in the fun. Popular dances in the social ballroom style include the Waltz, Foxtrot, Jive, and Swing.
Benefits of ballroom dancing in New Malden
Improved Coordination and Balance
Ballroom dancing requires a high level of coordination and balance. As you learn the steps of each dance, you will improve your coordination and balance, enabling you to move more gracefully.
Socialising and Making New Friends
Ballroom dancing is a great way to meet new people and make new friends. There are many social events and classes held at ballroom dance studios in New Malden, which are great places to meet like-minded people and have fun.
Physical Exercise
Ballroom dancing is a form of physical exercise. It can help to improve your flexibility, strength, and stamina. It is also a great way to burn calories and stay in shape.
Stress Relief
Dancing is a great way to relieve stress and tension. It can help to clear your mind and improve your mood. The upbeat music and social atmosphere of a ballroom dance class can be a great way to unwind and relax.
Places to Learn Ballroom Dancing in New Malden
1. Arthur Murray Dance Studio
Located in the heart of New Malden, Arthur Murray Dance Studio offers a variety of classes for all levels of experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional dancer, Arthur Murray has something for everyone. The studio offers private lessons, group classes, and practice sessions to help you master your ballroom dancing skills.
2. Dance with Me
Dance with Me is a dance studio located in the centre of New Malden. They offer a range of classes in a variety of styles, including ballroom dancing. The studio has experienced instructors who are passionate about helping their students become confident and competent dancers. They also offer private lessons and practice sessions for those looking to perfect their ballroom dancing skills.
3. Dance Elite
Dance Elite is a dance studio located in the heart of New Malden. They offer classes in a variety of ballroom dancing styles, including the Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, and Cha Cha. They also offer private lessons and practice sessions for those looking to perfect their ballroom dancing skills.
4. Move It Dance Studio
Move It Dance Studio is a dance studio located in the centre of New Malden. They offer a range of classes in a variety of styles, including ballroom dancing. The studio has experienced instructors who are passionate about helping their students become confident and competent dancers. They also offer private lessons and practice sessions for those looking to perfect their ballroom dancing skills.
5. Dance Fusion
Dance Fusion is a dance studio located in the centre of New Malden. They offer a range of classes in a variety of styles, including ballroom dancing. The studio has experienced instructors who are passionate about helping their students become confident and competent dancers. They also offer private lessons and practice sessions for those looking to perfect their ballroom dancing skills.
Popular ballroom dancing events in New Malden
The Grand Ballroom Dance Festival
The Grand Ballroom Dance Festival is the premier ballroom dancing event in New Malden. This event takes place every year, and brings together some of the world's best dancers in a variety of styles. From traditional waltzes to modern Latin dances, this festival has something for everyone.
The New Malden International Dance Festival
The New Malden International Dance Festival is an annual event that brings together dancers from around the world. This festival features a wide range of styles, from Latin to classical. The festival also includes workshops and seminars, giving participants the opportunity to learn more about the different styles of ballroom dancing.
The New Malden Ballroom Dance Championships
The New Malden Ballroom Dance Championships is an annual event that brings together some of the best ballroom dancers in the world. This competition is open to all levels of dancers, from beginners to professionals. The competition features a variety of styles, including Latin, waltz, tango, and more.
The New Malden Ballroom Dance Show
The New Malden Ballroom Dance Show is an annual event that showcases the best ballroom dancers from around the world. This show features a variety of styles, including Latin, waltz, tango, and more. The show is a great way to experience the best ballroom dancing in the world.
The New Malden Ballroom Dance Workshop
The New Malden Ballroom Dance Workshop is a great way for dancers to learn more about ballroom dancing. This workshop offers classes in a variety of styles, from Latin to classical. The workshop also includes demonstrations and discussions, giving participants the opportunity to learn more about the different styles of ballroom dancing.
The New Malden Ballroom Dance Party
The New Malden Ballroom Dance Party is a great way to experience the best ballroom dancing in the world. This event features a variety of styles, from Latin to classical. The party also includes workshops and seminars, giving participants the opportunity to learn more about the different styles of ballroom dancing.
Famous Ballroom Dancers from New Malden
Anton du Beke
Anton du Beke is a professional ballroom dancer and choreographer from New Malden. He is best known for his appearances on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, where he has been a regular professional dancer since the show's launch in 2004. He is also a judge on the show and is known for his witty and humorous remarks.
Karen Hardy
Karen Hardy is a professional ballroom dancer and choreographer from New Malden. She is best known for her appearances as a professional dancer on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, where she was a regular from 2004 to 2007. She is also a judge on the show and is known for her technical knowledge and insight.
Iveta Lukosiute
Iveta Lukosiute is a professional ballroom dancer and choreographer from New Malden. She is best known for her appearances as a professional dancer on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, where she was a regular from 2010 to 2013. She is also a judge on the show and is known for her graceful and elegant style.
Pasha Kovalev
Pasha Kovalev is a professional ballroom dancer and choreographer from New Malden. He is best known for his appearances as a professional dancer on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, where he was a regular from 2011 to 2018. He is also a judge on the show and is known for his unique and creative choreography.
Karen Clifton
Karen Clifton is a professional ballroom dancer and choreographer from New Malden. She is best known for her appearances as a professional dancer on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, where she has been a regular since 2012. She is also a judge on the show and is known for her energetic and passionate style.
Neil Jones
Neil Jones is a professional ballroom dancer and choreographer from New Malden. He is best known for his appearances as a professional dancer on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, where he has been a regular since 2016. He is also a judge on the show and is known for his smooth and stylish moves.
Giovanni Pernice
Giovanni Pernice is a professional ballroom dancer and choreographer from New Malden. He is best known for his appearances as a professional dancer on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, where he has been a regular since 2015. He is also a judge on the show and is known for his dynamic and powerful performances.
Conclusion
Ballroom dancing in New Malden is a vibrant and exciting activity that brings people from all walks of life together. With a wide range of dance styles and venues, there is something for everyone. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, you can find a place to dance and make some new friends. The local ballroom dancing community is welcoming and supportive, making it a great place to learn and enjoy the art of ballroom dancing.
So, What Are You Waiting For?
If you're looking for a fun and exciting way to get active and socialize, ballroom dancing in New Malden is the perfect place to start. With a wide range of classes, events, and venues, you can find the perfect way to get involved in the ballroom dancing community. So, what are you waiting for? Get up and get dancing!