of Arthur Murray Dance Studios
See Her Before Your First Dance
By Christine R. Walsh

For any engaged couple, the thought of dancing in front of their dearest friends and family members can be exciting…or panic-inducing.

Alissa Tsiokas, a dance instructor at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio, has seen couples who glide effortlessly across the floor as well as folks who trip over their own two feet. But whether you are a seasoned dancer or a beginner, Tsiokas has five words for you when it comes to that first waltz:

“Avoid the eighth grade shuffle,” Tsiokas, age 30, advised in our recent interview. “Or as I also like to call it, the ‘hug and rock.’”

The Arthur Murray Dance Studio helps about 1000 couples each year find their groove just in time for the wedding bells to ring, according to Tsiokas. She has worked with couples who have kept their dances simple and some who have gone the extra mile.

“One couple actually had a first dance that went on for 12 minutes,” Tsiokas said. “They had a lift and everything. It was like ‘Dirty Dancing.’”

Not all grooms and brides-to-be are thrilled about taking dance lessons. Some people, especially the men, have trepidations about trying to pick up a new skill.
“I’ve had grooms swear at me! The brides come in and they’re usually dragging their guys. It can put the men in awkward positions,” said Tsiokas. “They feel vulnerable. That’s why we get very excited when a groom comes to the studio who is interested in dancing.”

With her impressive dance resume and teaching experience, Tsiokas understands that each client needs to be encouraged and congratulated during the learning process and feels that couples are better off coming into the Studio and attempting to learn some new steps instead of just hoping for the best. She loves her job, but even this charismatic instructor says there are draw backs.

“If I never hear Shania Twain’s ‘From This Moment On’ again,” said Tsiokas, “I’ll be happy.”

For more info on Arthur Murray Dance Studios, go to
www.arthurmurray-bos.com/ or contact one of these studios: 70 James St., # 137, Worcester, (508)798-0392 or 251 W. Central St., # 7, Natick (508) 651-9041