Here is a thought that you may find comforting. There may be a person, or several persons, in this dance class who enjoy helping out the new people. In fact, they may be introverted themselves, but find themselves energized by helping others.

I'm that way. That's why I've been commenting on so many threads today, offering up advice that may or may not be any good. In fact, I've been mistaken for an extrovert more than once because of this.

So, if someone with more experience or skill offers to dance with you, then try to enjoy it and take advantage of the opportunity. Even if they do it as a favor to the dance instructor, remember that they were newbies once, too. And someone with more skill had to dance with *them* a few times before they became good at it.

Thanks for your input, T-Rex. I think that's wise.

And I'm crossing my fingers, Zap (though obviously wherever your daughter ends up, it's the right place for her). But you know I'm biased!

So the last class of this past series was last night. The teacher is recommending to all of us to do a repeat of this series. It does make sense because the moves are challenging and we're not getting them fully yet. She is acknowledging that none of us are ready for a milonga either.

I'm trying to see if there is a club like abc talks about with friendly Argentinians, but I doubt there is that kind of expat community in Boston, a small city. (We do have tons of Brazilians here, though, for some reason, but not much Argentinian presence, I suspect).

Anyway it is all an exercise in getting me out of my shell, bit by bit. I truly thank you all for listening to me and offering empathy and great solutions.

Ah, I know this scenario SO WELL. I have not read all the comments, but this was totally me when I started cheerleading. Asking strangers for help or even companionship? Forgetaboudit!

What you choose to do may come down to what you want to get out of dancing... if it is just a new skill/exercise, then the classes may be all you need. If you DO long for the social aspect, and hope to one day be a part of the group, then for sure find a way to break the ice. I really regret not jumping in and asking for the help I wanted back in those days - could have gotten better so much faster.

Would it be possible to meet up with these dance people in smaller groups, away from dance? Break the ice, talk, and then you will know one another better when dancing socially? Or maybe next time take your teacher up on her offer to have someone dance with you... it will be painful and awkward at first, but it gets to be less so once you are in the circle. Once people see you dancing, they will know you *want* to dance. Sometimes people will mistake shyness for disinterest... that one has burned me many times.