Waltz. Salsa. Swing. There’s something about summer that just makes you want to get up and move. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or have never taken a lesson, the great folks at Powers Ballroom Studio are ready to teach you in the style of your choice, so you feel more comfortable hitting the dance floor.
Powers Ballroom Studio, located in East Olympia, is owned by Rhett and Shona Powers. A dynamic, outgoing couple, they have a loyal following as teachers for their positive attitudes and expertise in ballroom. In addition to teaching private and group lessons, they also host ballroom dance events around town, so students have a chance to use the skills they’ve learned. With wedding season in full bloom and plenty of social events on the calendar, many couples come to Powers Ballroom to learn the basics or polish up on their dance skills. They specialize in all styles of Ballroom, Latin, and Swing.
I visited the studio to talk with Shona and Rhett, and see them in action. Stepping into the bright, airy studio, I was warmly greeted by the pair. They are energetic, happy to talk all things ballroom, and even gave me a sample of their dance moves. Watching them do a smooth waltz and then a cha-cha across the floor, they made it look effortless and harmonious. I could see why people would be drawn to them as teachers, and why students can’t get enough of their classes.
As Shona explained, their approach to teaching is to focus on the student. They emphasize teaching safe technique and a set of lasting skills students can use for the rest of their lives, whether at weddings, parties, or any get-together where there’s music and room to dance. Rhett and Shona take you through a logical progression of levels, so each class builds upon the last one. They like to keep the emphasis on fun and a wholesome, all-are-welcome environment. Students range from teens to people in their seventies, and absolutely all experience levels.
The other part of their business is DJing and event planning services. Whether it’s a wedding reception, birthday party, or corporate occasion, the Powers are in demand for events around South Sound. Shona has a background in professional DJing, and both have an intimate knowledge of music from so many years in dance. They offer complete sound services, event coordination, onsite dance lessons, and dance choreography (such as “first dances” and “father-daughter dances” for weddings).
As their great customer testimonials attest, their upbeat personalities and professionalism are great qualities to add to your event. In fact, many people consider them the “go-to” couple for fun and dancing here in Thurston County. Their motto is “We do all the work, so you can relax and enjoy your event.”
And when you take dance lessons or hire Rhett and Shona for your event, you are learning from the best. Both are former competitive ballroom dancers – Rhett is a former 9 dance U.S. American Style Ballroom Dance Champion. They each have over 20 years of experience teaching ballroom dance. Rhett has taught ballroom in Los Angeles and Seattle. Shona brings her background in jazz, tap and ballet to the table as well. Together, they have turned their focus entirely to teaching others the joys of ballroom dance. Shona notes they aim to create a “well-rounded” dancer, with a strong knowledge of good technique, ballroom etiquette, and a sense of enjoyment.
The Powers actually began teaching up north, in the Auburn and Tacoma areas. They were such a hit that people would travel up from Olympia to take classes. Due to student demand, they eventually started teaching at an existing studio in Olympia, and then set out in 2012 to open Powers Ballroom Studio. Shona notes that there were many people interested in ballroom dance in Olympia, but there wasn’t yet a studio or community to really help it blossom. The Powers decided to focus their teaching practice in Olympia to do just that.
It is the Powers’ goal not just to teach students to dance, but to give them places to practice their new skills. “We’re more than a dance school…we want to create an entire dance community,” Shona says. They currently host popular monthly dances on Saturday nights at the Olympia Armory, which begin with a mini-dance lesson. For a reasonable price, you can enjoy a great night of active and healthy fun. They also love putting together special dinner-and-dance evening events throughout the year (the catering is reported to be delicious).
Some people come to Powers Studio to learn to dance for a special event, and end up staying long-term because of the wonderful community. Dancers who want to can participate in a “formation team” which performs at a yearly showcase in the fall. Shona notes that students become friends and enjoy helping each other learn – they also host a student-led “practica” every Friday night. “We aim to be an all-in-one dance destination,” she says.
Everyone is welcome at Powers Ballroom Studio, so long as they’re serious about wanting to dance Powers notes the emphasis is on learning dance technique and creating a positive, wholesome environment – single dancers are welcome, but they are different from other “singles dance” ballroom events, and she shares that this is not their focus.
As their business has grown, Rhett and Shona have carefully selected and trained teaching assistants. They also bring in guest teachers on a regular basis, highly accomplished individuals who treat the students to new styles and experiences.
If you’re looking for something new to do this summer, you’ll want to check out their special summer events. For example, in July, they’re hosting a “Mid-Summer Moonlight Dance” night, complete with an outdoor dance floor under the stars. They’ll also be holding a free event at the end of August, a perfect chance for new folks to check it out and sign up for fall classes.
The energy and passion they put into their studio is tangible. When I asked Shona what she most enjoys about teaching, she said, “bringing joy into people’s lives. And creating a positive space – we put kindness and respect first at Powers Ballroom Studio.”
When I think of ballroom dance, I think of elegance, magic and grace. As the legendary dancer Martha Graham said, “Dance is the hidden language of the soul.” Come discover your inner dance language with Rhett and Shona – you’ll be glad you did.
For more information about classes and events at Powers Ballroom Studio, visit their website or join them on Facebook.
