Step Into Spring Dance Class Series

We are excited to offer the third annual “Step into Spring” Ballroom Dance Class Series at the JB Duke Hotel and Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, two distinctive AAA Four Diamond hotel properties located on Duke University’s campus.

During each class, Durham-based ballroom experts Sadie Zimet and Jordan Jewell are gracing our ballrooms to host exclusive, intimate weekly dance classes that introduce participants to the iconic steps, sweeping music and rich history of popular social dance styles.

Following an hour of beginner-friendly instruction, guests will then enjoy an intimate Q&A session to learn about the cultural context and origins of the dance style, featuring a complimentary sample of a specialty cocktail inspired by the unique traditions and flavor profiles of the time period. Explore the four class offerings below and scroll to the bottom to register.

“Tango for Two” with Sadie Zimet of Ninth Street Dance
Thursday, March 19 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the JB Duke Hotel
Learn the basic footwork, lead and follow techniques, and turns that sweep you across the ballroom and create the Tango’s electric feel. Known for its passionate, sharp movements, the Tango is dramatic in nature and follows the rhythmic and melodic structure of the music.

"Foxtrot Fever" with Jordan Jewell of Move with Grace Ballroom
Thursday, March 26 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the JB Duke Hotel
Experience the timeless elegance of the Foxtrot. This beginner-friendly session will introduce participants to the graceful movements and effortless charm of the Foxtrot, a dance known for its smooth flow and versatility. Whether they are first-timers or seasoned dancers, the class offers the perfect blend of fun and finesse, making it an unforgettable experience for all.

“Swing in Style” with Sadie Zimet of Ninth Street Dance
Thursday, April 2 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
Popularized in the 1940s, swing dancing has made a comeback in recent years as a high-energy, approachable social dance form. Guests of this class will improve their coordination, relieve stress and connect with others as they explore slow and quick variations of basic East Coast Swing movements including the triple step, rock step and twist. 

"Rhythms of Rumba" with Jordan Jewell of Move with Grace Ballroom
Thursday, April 9 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
In this session, guests will experience the incredible versatility of “Cuban Motion” – the playful sway of the body and hips. The style’s slow rhythm and fluid movements, paired with traditional Rumba music and pop favorites alike, gives it the reputation as “the dance of love.”

About the instructors: 

Jordan Jewell, owner of Durham-based Move With Grace Ballroom, has been a competitive dancer since age 17. After competing for Purdue University and UNC-Chapel Hill, Jordan transitioned to teaching, earning accolades and training under world-renowned ballroom dancers along the way.   

Sadie Zimet, a Durham-based artist and instructor, has been teaching ballroom and social dance in the Triangle since 2013. Her expertise spans a wide variety of styles, including East and West Coast Swing, Tango, Cha Cha, Salsa and more. In addition to her dancing skills, Sadie is an award-winning musician and Appalachian clogger.  

Each dance class and Q&A experience is priced at $25, and advanced registration is required. Beginners are welcome, and dancers may register alone or as a couple. Please be sure to purchase a spot for all individuals and include all names in the Order Notes section.

Register Here! Register Here!

Please contact [email protected] with any questions.