Since we’re admittedly not the most graceful of creatures, we couldn’t wait for some private tuition to straighten out our two left feet.

With our lovely partner in tow, we headed out to Al Raha International School to meet with Nazni McNaught of danceabudhabi to jive up our jig.

When we arrive, Nazni’s husband Ian is there to greet us and show us the way to the dance studio. After a quick introduction, Nazni asks us what we’d like to focus on. Since we’re newbies through and through we end up settling on some standard dances – the Cha-cha and Waltz.

The softly-spoken Nazni has been teaching professionally for five years but she quips “I think I was born dancing,” and truth be told, she isn’t that far off. Partnering up with Ian, she effortlessly demonstrates the steps we’re about to learn.

We begin with the basics and start slow. Once we’re into the swing of things we add the dramatic New Yorker, opening up our arms on either side as our partner swings us forward on either side. After a quick change of partners, we’re paired up with Ian to work out our kinks and mis-steps. Next comes the ladies under-arm turn. This takes a while to master but we can’t help but smile as we’re twirling away in our partner’s arms.

Then it’s on to the Waltz. In the Waltz-hold – with right arms pointed outwards and our partner’s left arm resting lightly on our shoulder blade, we’re off. The three-step, three-count beat slows things down nicely after all of that cha-cha-cha-ing.

We get our basic steps under control quickly, add a turn and really start moving along the floor. Our very favourite portion of the class however comes at the end when we get to practice our moves together without interruption.

Why go?

Personalised lessons are a great way to get the most out of your time. Aside from dancing to some seriously catchy tunes, we got to specify what we wanted and how we’d approach it. Surprisingly unobtrusive, we actually loved the one-on-one attention.

And why not?

It’s a bit expensive, but it’s worth it. The added bonus - you won't have an audience watching so any lingering wallflower tendencies are quickly put to rest.

What? Private dance classes with danceabudhabi
Where? Locations vary
Cost: AED 110 for a private lesson
We say: Sway me more!
Contact: www.danceabudhabi.com

Sawaiba Khan