“OQDS Ballroom 2026” is a six-month training program for International Standard Ballroom Dance (Waltz, Tango, and Quickstep) for Beginner and Intermediate levels. The goal is to prepare dancers to compete at the Gay Games in June 2026 or to perform locally.

Typical Month:

  • 1 weekly group class on Wednesdays at 7:45 PM at Lake Merritt Dance.

    • Except on the last Wednesday

  • First Tuesday class & team meeting at Hidden City Ballroom in Point Richmond. 

    • Team meeting: 7 PM;  Class: 7:45 PM

  • Practice Space

    • The Ballroom at Lake Merritt Dance is available for practice on Wednesdays from 6:30 PM.

    • We may also make available more dates and space for the team. 

  • “Rounds” at Just Dance Ballroom Sunday Mornings once a month. We go together.

  • Private lessons

    • Discount for members, per couple: $140 → $100

  • All OQDS Social Dance classes are included.

    • Don’t forget to social dance!

Group Class:

  • Group class will be taught by 1 or 2 instructors (Citabria with Emily or Rafael). 

  • Plan by month:

    • January - Begin Quickstep and Waltz. Settle on a partner. 

    • February - Begin Tango (continue Quickstep and Waltz). Visualize the competition environment. 

    • March - Prepare for the April 11 Showcase. 

    • April - Showcase April 11. Continue perfecting all 3 dances. 

    • May - Polish all 3 dances. Costumes, Logistics.

    • June - Dress rehearsals. 

Performance Opportunities:

  • OQDS Bay Area Spring Mock Competition / Showcase will be on Saturday, April 11 at Lake Merritt Dance. 

  • We may seek opportunities to perform at other events.

Fees:

  • $125 per person per month

  • We will offer a limited number of spots at reduced fees: $85/month.

  • Applicants will have 1 week to apply for financial aid in December, no questions asked. Recipients will be chosen at random.

The Team:

  • We are training as a team.

  • We plan to have jackets or jerseys.

  • There will be team dinners.

  • We expect team members to help coordinate, contribute creatively, and uplift one another.

FAQ

Do I need to commit to train for six months starting in January?

We want students to commit and have the opportunity to train at a higher level. We hope to get your commitment in the first month of the program. Students are allowed to withdraw.

Can I drop in for a class?

Generally, we do not allow drop-ins for this program like we do in our social dance class series.

Can I join after the first month?

We will consider new members on a case-by-case basis. New members who will partner with an existing member are welcome to join later in the season.

Why is there one monthly practice in Point Richmond?

There are many reasons and we’re happy to tell you. It’s kind of a long story though, but we feel it’s the right thing.

How do I find a partner?

Honestly, it’s hard and weird. Some people do, some don’t. Some will break up and someone might show up in your life very last-minute. Perhaps all you can do is be open to possibilities, know what you need, know your boundaries, and be okay with any outcome.

Why are we training in only International Standard and not Latin?

Standard is our strength. Latin is wonderful, and if that is the category you want to compete in, we’re happy to refer you to better instructors and schools for International Latin Ballroom dance.

Is this a formation team?

No. But Citabria, Emily, and Rafael are part of other formation teams. They will be in our orbit. If you’re interested in joining a formation team, we will show you the way.