Dancing with the Stars, in real life

Dancing with the stars has truly brought a spotlight to the world of ballroom dance.  I happened to start taking lessons in latin ballroom dancing about 6 months ago, and I am slowly learning the lingo - a third language if you will.  Even though I've danced for years, ballroom dancing is a whole new beast, however, it is one I am coming to love.  


This weekend was the Indiana Challenge, one of the biggest competitions for the midwest in ballroom dancing.  It rivals with the Milwaukee challenge, but it is quite a sight to behold.  While I did not compete myself, many students and all of the teacher at the studio did, so I had a first hand look at what competing entails.  WOW - new found respect.


For one, they are all in seriously AMAZING condition.  I'm just a starter ballroom dancer, but between the use of your core muscles and the blisters on your feet from your shoes, your body is definitely being used.  And they have to be to fit into some of these costumes!

Not to mention, these dresses are anything but cheap.  Think . . . bridal gown expensive.  That's right, these dresses, from what I have seen, can run from $2500 - $6000+ . . . and that's just the dress!  Then, (note picture above) there is all the required bedazzling:  bracelets, necklaces, fake eyelashes, tanning, hair accessories, and professional shoes.  My bank account hurt when I looked at the price tags.  This is not a sport for the faint wallet-ed.  However, it is extremely easy to get caught up in the hype and want to be a part of what is going on around you.  I have enviously watched the dancers and dreamed of being able to dance around and look as beautiful as them.  I mean, seriously, where else is it acceptable to be as bedazzled as these ladies?!  Maybe in ice-skating, but personally I don't stand a chance against ice.  No no.  I'll stick to the floor, and hope that maybe someday I'll be able to perform in such beautiful attire . . . when my bank account gets an extra zero at the end.  :-)  .... anyone care to donate?!