If fears of that $100 fill-up forced you to cut your weekly flamenco lesson, you might want to take advantage of Dance/MetroDC’s second annual Dance Is The Answer event in honor of National Dance Week.

National Dance Week was organized in 1981 and has been an annual event ever since, but D.C. only really joined in on the fun about a year ago. That said, there’s an impressive lineup this year. Beginning today through May 4, over 120 free classes, performances, workshops and open rehearsals are being held throughout the D.C. area by a number of nonprofit dance organizations. Dance/MetroDC’s web site has all of the information on the offerings.

While the dizzying list is a lot to take in, Joy of Motion is a good bet for the classes given its numerous studio locations and variety of classes offered. Whether you hung up your tutu years ago or you’ve never danced before in your life, there’s no reason to shy away from the classes if you don’t feel like a pro. All levels are represented from beginner to advanced.

As for performances, take note, there are a few for which you'll need to call and reserve one of the limited tickets in advance. Shows not to miss include Deborah Riley Dance Projects at Dance Place and the Capitol Movement Project at Lisner Auditorium.

The events are free because the numerous organizations participating truly believe that dance can provide us with a number of things such as better health, an enriched social life, a creative outlet, and a stronger connection to the community if people get a chance during this one week a year to give it a shot. For some people, it’ll stick, and for others, the exposure to dance can be something new and exciting to sample.