I'm interested in Ballroom dancing but I am only sixteen living in Memphis where not much dancing is going on. I don't know what to do?

Dancegirl, I would strongly recommend looking at the local colleges and universities for dance clubs. As most of the dances are on school grounds, there is seldom a problem being a minor (not having to be 21 to get into a bar). I know that the clubs we have in Madison allow anyone to take the dance classes. There are also Continuing Education or Extension classes and seminars in dance that seldom require you to be a student. I would suggest you try to take a partner about your own age so you don't feel out of place and could have someone to practice with between classes.

There are lots of "hidden" places to dance in a city as big as Memphis. Try American Legions, Eagles, Elks, Moose, Cats, Dogs- whooops, got carried away, but you know what I mean. They will have dancing- BUT, some of them have alcohol, so you might not be allowed unless with an adult. Most are just social dances, but some offer an hour lesson BEFORE the dance, which helps.

Now, in May, I think the 25th, there's a "swing weekend" in either Memphis or Nashville (I had the flyers, they are on the coffee table- let me find them because I know they've walked off and will need to be hunted up, and I'll post the dates and stuff for you)... Those are like "dance camp" almost- you have workshops (beginners to pros) all day long, food, music, I haven't been to one yet, but I'm definitely going to try for either the Nashville or Memphis one this year.

They're around, you just have to really keep your eyes and ears open for them. Check all your newspapers, too, and phonebooks, and don't forget, sometimes at restaurants with live music, or clubs, there might be flyers or announcements.

Don't Ben and Shalene Ermis teach in TN?