We don't currently have a formation team. We would like to have one, but there are currently no plans to craete one in the near future. In the mean time, I welcome you to pass the time with the formation team FAQ:

Formation Team FAQ

Q: What is a formation team?

A: A formation team is composed of 4 or more dance couples that perform a choreographed routine to the music they chose.

Q: Do I need a partner to be on the formation team?

A: NO!!!!

Q: What is west coast swing?

A: West coast swing is a very slow and smooth version of swing that can be danced to nearly any music on the radio today!

Q: Can beginners join the formation team?

A: YES!!!
Not only can beginners join the formation team, they are encouraged to. Additionally, BAM has quite a few advanced dancers who WILL NOT be joining the formation team.  Thus, it will NOT be intimidating in any way.

Q: What happens if I don't know the dances?

A: It simply doesn't matter.  You will be an accomplished dancer by the time the formation is done!

Q: Who is coaching the formation?

A: Currently we don't have a professional coach. In the past we have had Debbie Tuttle, an EXTREMELY talented west coast swing instructor and professional dancer who is very eager to work with Maryland students.  Check out her web site for more information: http://www.dancinglytuttles.com

Q: When do we practice?

A: THIS IS OLD INFO AND MUST BE UPDATED! Practices will be on Mondays from 9 - 11 pm in the basement of the Armory. There will be an informal practice during the Ballroom at Maryland practice space from 10 - 11pm on Wednesday.  Dave Cunningham will be there to help out anyone with formation questions.

Q: Where is practice?

A: THIS IS OLD INFO AND MUST BE UPDATED! Monday practice will be in Room 0117 of the Armory Wednesday practice will be in the basketball courts in the HHP Building (where practice space is)

Q: How much does it cost?

A: The first practice is free so that everyone who is interested in the formation team can come check it out.  However, to formally join the formation team, you will need to purchase a competitive membership with BAM which is $35.

Q: What do I get for that $35?

A: The $35 buys you a membership in the formation team and a competitive membership with BAM:

As a member of the formation team, you will be getting two hours of instruction from Debbie Tuttle per week for the rest of the semester as she coaches the formation.  To put this in perspective, Debbie normally charges dancers $60 PER HOUR for instruction with her!!!

As a competitive member of BAM, you will be entitled to free use of practice space and BAM will pay for your competition entry fees as well (an entry to a single competition typically costs $15 - $20).  Also, BAM typically subsidizes transportation costs for all away competitions.

Q: What music will the formation use?

A: The selection of music for the formation will be completely up to the team!

Q: When will this formation perform?

The West Coast Swing Formation will be completed this semester and you will perform it toward the end of the semester!

Q: What is this about Florida?

A: The Intercontinental Collegiate Dance Festival is held 1/5/02 - 1/12/01 in Daytona Beach, FL.  During this AMAZING dance festival, there is a formation team competition where the BAM West Coast Formation Team will compete. Check out the following link for more information: http://www.usabda.org/youth_&_college_dancers/ycn_events/139/index.cfm

Q: How much does it cost to go to Florida?

A: BAM is going to subsidize the cost of the trip to Florida for Formation Team members to the tune of at least $50.  The overall cost of the trip will be a few hundred dollars and is GUARANTEED TO BE THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE.  We stay 4 people to a hotel room to make prices as cheap as possible.  Also, we will hopefully be getting bulk and student discount rates for travel expenses :) Basically, if you think money may prevent you from going to Florida, PLEASE talk to me.  I am sure we can work something out.  Also, don't worry because I'll be handling all of the paperwork!

Q: What should I do if my question was not listed?

A: Contact the officers.