About "A Step to Gold International Ballroom"

The Ballroom is solely owned and operated by Melanie Dale. It has a 2400 squarefoot floating floor, and four other teaching studios. A Step to Gold International Ballroom ("ASTG") offer a wide variety of instruction and social dances accompanied by music of the Big Band sounds, Ballroom, Shag, Swing, and Latin. ASTG makes sure it is a friendly, fun and a free-from-pressure studio. Offering classes from the very beginner to the advanced competitor, ASTG is fully committed to reasonable prices without big restricting contracts. So you can practice comfortably, ASTG has public dances at the Ballroom every Friday, and selectedSaturdays. ASTG also offers classes through the Wake County Community Schools Program at various high schools. (See our Group Lessons Page for the current schedule) Here at ASTG, we pride ourselves in you! Come join the fun. You will be glad you did.

Our Mission …
Dance professionals dedicated to your personal growth, ability, and self esteem through artistic and technical instruction.

Our Director:
A Step to Gold Ballroom is owned and operated by Melanie Dale. Melanie has over 27 years of experience in teaching and competing. She is a certified championship adjudicator and is affiliated with NADTA, ISTD and PDF.

Our Instructors:
Over a dozen of the area's top dance instructors are affiliated with A Step To Gold Ballroom Ballroom and regularly teach classes and offer private lessons. See our Instructor page for the current roster of instructors.

About Melanie A. Dale
Member of Imperial Society Teachers of Dancing
North American Dance Teachers Association and
Professional Dancers Federation

Originally a Ballet Major at Virginia Intermont College, Melanie continued to study at East Carolina University and danced professionally with the Savannah Ballet Company under the direction of Ballerina Karina Brock. She then found her way into the world of partnership dancing.

After teaching Ballroom for a franchise studio in Savannah, Georgia and Venice, Florida for 2 years, Melanie decided to work as an independent in 1984. In 1986 she married 11 time US 10-dance champion, Larry Silvers. He, as well as many World-Class European coaches, trained her in the International Style of Ballroom & Latin Dancing.

During the last 27 years, Melanie competed in the American Style & International Style of Ballroom Dancing and earned a Licentiate Degree with the North American Dance Teachers Association as well as an Associate Degree with the Imperial Society Teachers of Dancing. Melanie continues to be a certified championship adjudicator (judge).

In 1997, she began her study of Argentine Tango at the first US Tango Congress held in Miami. Afterwards Melanie was credited with bringing Argentine Tango into the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area. Her students organized the "Triangle Tangueros" a nonprofit organization promoting the study of Argentine Tango.

While some people see the differences in different styles, Melanie says that she sees the similarities-the common way the bodies work to lead and follow in all partnership dances. "Each dance has its own mood and feeling which contributes to the beauty of the choreography."

Melanie's amateur students usually do very well in competition-she trained the US Preteen and Junior Champions for 4 years consecutively. ASTG Ballroom is located in Raleigh, North Carolina where she teaches private lessons. Group classes are held at the ASTG Ballroom in Raleigh, Rocky Mount, Apex and various area high schools. She coordinates instruction with many other leading profession dance teachers to build a well-rounded program. Melanie has also taught at GlaxoSmithKline, SAS,the Capital City Club in Raleigh, Faculty Club and Governor's Club in Chapel Hill.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: While I am learning, where will I go practice?
A: Lots of places! Get involved and learn where the dancers go. Get to know other students and start a practice club. Have a weekly practice session. Remember that local dances are held weekly!

Q. What if I am not ready to go out dancing?
A. Good question! You may always feel a little awkward with your newly found talent. The thing to remember is that people go to dances to dance, not watch. The safest place to practice is where you are learning to dance, like the ballroom.

Q. What if I need extra help?
A. Beginner private lesson specials are available. This gives you a better feel for each dance. A variety of experiences can quickly better your progress.

Q. How can I minimize the cost of private lessons?
A. One way is to find another person interested. That way you can share the cost and double your fun!

Q. Why is learning technique as important as steps?
A. Placing your feet on time to the music is only half of what dancing is all about. The way you move with your partner is critical and assures confidence. It feels good too!