✨ Set a goal. Train as a team. Step onto the floor with confidence.

Competing can be one of the most rewarding ways to grow as a dancer. Setting a goal encourages focused practice, builds confidence, and helps accelerate progress.

Competitions are also a wonderful community experience. Rather than going alone, our goal is to attend Island Fantasy Ball together as a VBDS group, supporting one another and celebrating our dancing.

Solo dancers are welcome. The workshop provides opportunities to connect with other dancers who may be looking for a partner, and we will also explore options for volunteer partners where possible.

For many dancers, their first competition becomes a memorable milestone — and often the beginning of a new stage in their dancing journey.

Competition Talk & Q&A with Diane and Thomas (30 minutes)

We’ll start each week with a relaxed discussion about the practical side of competing. Topics include registration, marshalling, dress code, etiquette, hair and makeup, preparation tips, and what to expect on competition day. We’ll also share our own experiences as competitors and answer questions along the way.

Technique and Choreography Lesson with Victor (60 minutes)

Victor will guide dancers through key elements of the competition dances, helping you learn a level-appropriate sequence, refine technique, movement, and confidence on the floor.

Practice Rounds & Competition Simulation with Victor (30 minutes)

Experience what a real competition feels like with practice rounds, marshalling, and floor craft exercises designed to prepare you for the live event.

Dances we’ll work on

The workshop will focus on dances typically offered at the Newcomer and Pre-Bronze levels, and focuses primarily on Waltz and Cha Cha. For our Pre-Bronze level dancers we will also introduce Quickstep and Jive.

Bronze dancers are welcome, but should be comfortable working on their own sequences alongside the workshop material.

• Saturday evening in the Adult categories — be part of an amazing event of elegant competitions and dancing
• Sunday afternoon in Senior I and up events (for dancers where both partners are 30+ and at least one is 35+)

Dancers are welcome to participate on either day or both, depending on their category and interest.

Cost overview

Competitions can be more accessible than many dancers expect. Typical costs include:

• Competition entries: ~ $15–$20 per dance event per couple
• Event ticket / evening ball: ~ $45 per day per competitor
• Travel and hotel: if staying overnight in Nanaimo

We’ll share tips throughout the workshop on keeping costs low, organizing travel, and preparing for your first competition.

✨ No fancy costumes required — practice wear is perfectly acceptable at the Newcomer and Pre-Bronze levels.

👠✨ Dance shoes: While not required, dancers may want to invest in a pair of ballroom practice shoes. They make turning easier, improve comfort, and help protect the dance floor. Many dancers find a great pair in the $100–$150 range — and they can last for years of classes and practice.