Slow Bal Workshop
8th Aug 2026
pENRITH PARISH ROOMS
Curious about Slow Bal? We’re delighted that Graeme and Sarah from Swing Tyne have agreed to come and introduce us to this beautiful dance over a 4 hour introductory workshop, suitable for complete beginners; you don’t need any previous Balboa experience.
What is Slow Bal?
Slow Balboa, also known as Slow Bal, is a close connection swing dance inspired by Balboa, but danced to slower, smoother swing music. Where classic Balboa is often known for fast tempos, compact footwork and quick rhythmic changes, Slow Balboa gives us more time to stretch the movement, listen to the music, and enjoy a softer, more flowing style of partner dancing.
Slow Bal is usually danced to slower jazz and swing, often around 70 to 110 beats per minute, rather than the faster tempos many people associate with Balboa. It keeps the lovely close connection, subtle lead and follow, and compact movement of Balboa, but adds more space for musicality, rhythm changes, triple steps, and relaxed expression. It is a beautiful, elegant style for anyone who enjoys Balboa, Lindy Hop, Blues, or simply wants to explore a nuanced, more connected way of dancing to swing music.
Please note that Slow Bal is a close connection style of dance, involving a more intimate connection style than Lindy Hop.
You will need smooth soled shoes that you can slide and pivot in easily; no grippy trainers or boots please
Schedule: 10:30am-3pm
4 hours of progressive teaching with breaks and some time for social dancing. You are welcome to bring lunch to eat or alternatively there are many options in Penrith town centre a few minutes walk away.
Follows: if you are unable to book, it means that we have temporarily had to close follow bookings to maintain our lead : follow ratio. Please be patient; we will re-open bookings as soon as a few more leads have booked on!