The temperature is still a bit on the warmish side for most of us but it didn't stop us enjoying a super night's dancing and the excellent company. We welcomed friends who are back with us for just a couple of weeks before they fly on to even more exotic climes, and it lifted us all so that we got through virtually every dance on the programme with time left over. It was good to have our bar team back to full strength too, and we definitely need to provide them with some score cards!
We've now only 6 weeks to go until the ball so it was reassuring to manage some of our more challenging dances so well - and that includes those who were not in any way perfect, but managed to keep going through momentary confusions, drop to the bottom and then support the rest of the set during their time at the top - real team work! Next week the Tuesday class programme changes more than it would usually to cover much of the rest of our potential ball dance programme. On the night of the Ball we rarely complete the all the dances we have practiced in class - we run out of time - but having a good selection to choose from means we can maximize the fun of the evening for everyone so from now on I'll be ringing the changes a little more frequently - and don't forget the dances are being covered, one by one, with a lot more thoroughness on Mondays at the 'beginners and improvers' sessions. 

Yet again we have to thank the tireless Jean for supporting our group above & beyond her duty calling. Thanks to her stepping in at the last minute the bar was open and our night of tripping the light fantastic was enhanced by beverages. Alcohol is not necessary for a great night of dancing, in fact it is often contraindicated but on warm evenings fluids of any sort are definitely required. Although officially autumn nobody has told the Cyprus weather and we are still being blessed by 'comfortable' temperatures - fabulous for almost everything else but energetic dancing.
However who are we to complain when we have fans and an overworked AC available (and if we move fast enough we can create our own breeze!).
We welcome back a dancer who has been unable to join us recently due to surgery - she was intending to take it easy but still managed plenty of dances, so despite some challenges- several absences due to unfortunate events beyond anyone's control, and teacher having a headache and being less than her best self, we still had enough dancers in the session for 'a set & some over' and yet again the evening passed super quickly and everyone left with a smile and, hopefully the intention to return next week! 

I've been told that no-one would suspect how nervous I get before the dance classes. That's good of course - but doesn't stop me being nervous! Once everything is off and running I'm fine however. Tonight was an excellent example - I even resorted to Rescue Remedy beforehand, but once everyone was there it was brilliant. We had a respectable turn out for a first session and as a opening season treat (not to mention an incentive for people to come, and to renew their P3A memberships) the group sponsored a 'baps & chips meal' as well as a free drink per person. The baps were excellent - well done, and thanks, to Jean who did a sterling job in the kitchens as well as Marie who bobbed out from the bar to help - and the atmosphere both on and off the dance floor was relaxed and cheerful. We tried out a new room layout which should make the non-dancers much more comfortable, but still give dancers a respectable dancing area. It took several goes to work out the optimal direction for the 'top' of the room - but it worked well in the end. I look forward to seeing everyone again next week, at either the Monday or the Tuesday class and we should also have some returnees to swell the ranks which will be great.

If you are on our mailing list you should have seen all I've written below via an email, but just in case I've missed you, or perhaps you haven't joined us yet, you can find my message below :-

Hi Everyone, 
Summer has flown by, and it's time to restart dancing!

Classes restart next week at 6pm, Tuesday 12th September at the Phoenix Club. Wahaay!
We are making it a special evening - both Monday and Tuesday dancers / potential dancers are welcome.
Register when you arrive to get a drink token. Use it at the bar for a soft drink, beer or a glass of wine. For this first night the kitchen will be open as well as the bar.

I hope as many people as possible can come along - if you are considering joining / re-joining the Monday beginners' sessions, (we are restarting 2 pm, Monday, Sept 18th) you are also very welcome to join us this Tuesday. No-one will be dragged up to dance who doesn't wish to, but the programme includes all levels of dances and even if you don't feel ready to try, you can check what you are letting yourself in for! Singles are welcome, we are a friendly bunch.

There will be a few minor changes from last season :-
Layout - please enter through the 'Main' door - i.e. facing the bar. 
Charges (for both Tuesdays and Mondays)- This is to cover new performance rights fees.

• Phoenix Club members €2. 
• Phoenix Club non-members €4 (includes 1 week temporary membership, please ensure you keep the temporary membership slip with you while you are in the club)

Memberships - 
Phoenix Club memberships have been due since June - see the bar ladies for help in joining / re-joining  - Phoenix club membership is not mandatory but will save you the weekly additional €2 temp membership fee if you come regularly.
P3A memberships - now due - if you haven't re-joined / joined forms will be available at the door - or download them from the P3A site HERE. P3A membership (and subsequent membership of the St Andrew Group) gives you discounts at St Andrew Group events plus P3A membership is a requirement if attending classes regularly.

St Andrew Group Ball - Change of date and venue. Now being held at the Kamares Club on Saturday 11th November. Tickets will be available from 12th Sept:- 
P3A / St Andrew Group members - €20
Non-members/guests - €25 (tickets only via Irene / class attendees)

I hope you can make it next week, but if not I look forward to seeing you whenever you can join us. All the best
Janine (You'll find more information throughout the website, please take time to browse)