Fred Astaire Dance Studios - Chandler

West Coast Swing (or Western Swing) quickly gained popularity across the U.S. because of its sophisticated style and easy adaptation to contemporary rock music. A regional style popular on the West Coast of the U.S., the dance made a bid for national recognition in the late 50s and continues to grow in popularity in the 21st century. West Coast Swing incorporates many forms of swing including the Lindy, Shag, Whip and Push. Versatile dancers, eager to display their talent, are continually innovating new and interesting movement in swing. After nearly five decades, Western Swing has endured the test of time, and as with the Eastern Swing, it is possible to dance in a relatively small area. The West Coast Swing is danced in place in a slot. Its slower tempo allows for freer rhythmic interpretations using single, double, triple and various other syncopated rhythms. A relaxed, sometimes shuffling movement and upright position are characteristic. Occasional use of hip movements and or push style is also used to enhance the style of the dance.

The Waltz is a timeless dance that has enchanted people for centuries. Its origins date back over 400 years to the country folk dances of Bavaria, where it began as a round dance known as the Volte. From there, it traveled through Italy, France, and Germany, slowly evolving into the graceful style we know today. It wasn’t until 1812 that the Waltz made its grand entrance into English ballrooms, marking its debut in high society. While it started as a dance of the elite, the Waltz quickly gained popularity across Europe and the United States, becoming a beloved classic for dancers of all backgrounds.

The Viennese Waltz, as its known today, was first danced by European royalty during the era of the Austrian composers, Johann Strauss I and Johann Strauss II (1800s). Its hallmark charisma and social grace is typical of that period of history. The Viennese Waltz became the only dance of that era which is still performed by the American public.

During the greatest period of the dance evolution in American history (1910-1914), the Tango made its first appearance. It was instantly a hit with the dance-conscious public for its intriguing, asymmetrical, and sophisticated patterns which added a touch of romance to the country’s dance consciousness. The Tango has no clearly defined origin: it may have originated in Argentina, Brazil, Spain, or Mexico, but it clearly descended from an early Spanish folk dance, the Milonga, and bears traces of Moorish and Arabic ancestry. The Tango first came to be known as such, early in the 20th century in Argentina. It was danced, however, under various names throughout all of Latin America. Years later, Argentine plainsmen or “gauchos,” danced a modified version of the Milonga in the bawdy cafes of Buenos Aires. Argentine and Cuban youth later changed the name (and style) to Tango which was more acceptable to society. The Cubans danced it to habanera rhythms which were syncopated and obscured the basic Milonga rhythm. It was not until after it caught on in Paris and was re-introduced to Argentina, that the music was restored to its native style. For over 60 years, the four beat Tango rhythm has endured and continued to enjoy popularity everywhere as the music is universal with many types of sub-styles. Of all the dances which came into being in the early 20th century, only the Tango has continued to enjoy this much popularity. The Tango is a progressive dance where the staccato movement of the feet and flexed knees highlight the dramatic style of the dance. The Tango is one of the most highly stylized ballroom dances. It is dramatic with measured crossing and flexing steps and poised pauses. Perhaps the main reason for its widespread popularity is that it is danced close to the partner. Take advantage of our special introductory offer for new students, and contact Fred Astaire Dance Studios today. We’ll help you take the first step towards a new and exciting lifestyle.

When Brazilian Samba first made its way to the U.S. in 1929, it immediately captivated audiences and became a dance sensation. Known for its infectious rhythm and lively beats, Samba blends African and Latin American musical traditions with expressive melodies that add a rich, dynamic character. Often described as a serenade in motion, its repetitive melodies are playfully interrupted by the strumming of guitars or other string instruments. Originating in Bahia, Brazil, Samba gained popularity in Rio de Janeiro before spreading worldwide, where it’s now synonymous with celebration and joy—especially the dazzling parades of Rio’s Carnival. Samba’s charm lies in its versatility and energy. In Brazil, it’s danced at a smooth, moderate tempo, creating a relaxed and sultry vibe. In the U.S., however, Samba often takes on a more spirited pace, adding an upbeat twist that keeps the dance exciting and fresh. This festive and lighthearted style has stood the test of time, remaining a favorite among social dancers and competitors alike. Whether you’re drawn to its rich cultural roots or its dynamic movement, Samba never fails to bring a sense of fun and connection. If you’re in Chandler and ready to experience the joy of Samba, we at Fred Astaire Dance Studios are here to help you get started! Samba is perfect for anyone looking to try something new, whether you’re a beginner or already have some dance experience. Our friendly instructors create a welcoming and laid-back environment, making it easy to learn the steps, feel the rhythm, and fully enjoy the process. Dancing Samba is not just a way to move your body—it’s a chance to express yourself and embrace the music. Why wait to add a little Samba flair to your life? At Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Chandler, we make it easy to get started with our special Introductory Offer for new students. Whether you’re preparing for a special event, exploring a new hobby, or just looking to have fun, our instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today, and let’s bring the spirit of Samba to your life—one step at a time!

Full of rhythm, energy, and a touch of flair, Salsa is a dance that embodies pure joy. With roots in Cuban Son and Afro-Cuban Rumba, Salsa has evolved into a dynamic and expressive art form loved worldwide. This captivating dance is always changing, influenced by the cultures and regions where it grows. Popular styles include Cuban, Colombian, Los Angeles, New York (also known as Eddie Torres Style), Palladium, Puerto Rican, Rueda, and On Clave—each with its unique vibe. No matter the style, Salsa is all about connection, movement, and having fun.

Rumba (or “ballroom-rumba”), is one of the ballroom dances which occurs in social dance and in international competitions. It is the slowest of the five competitive International Latin dances. This ballroom Rumba was derived from a Cuban rhythm and dance called the Bolero-Son; the international style was derived from studies of dance in Cuba in the pre-revolutionary period which was then popularized by the descendants of African slaves of Cuba.

The Quickstep, with its roots in Ragtime, was developed in the 1920’s in New York from a combination of Foxtrot, Charleston, Peabody and the One-Step. Originally it was danced solo – away from the partner, but later became a partner dance. It was originally given the name “Quick Time Fox Trot” but eventually that name was changed to Quickstep. The dance traveled to England and was developed into the dance that we know today, and was standardized in 1927. In a basic form Quickstep is a combination of walks and chasses but in an advanced stage hops jumps & many syncopations are utilized. It is an elegant and glamorous dance and body contact is maintained throughout the dance.

The Paso Doble (or pasodoble), in its classical form dates back many centuries and was originally intended for use at bullfights when the matador was victorious in the arena. The music adapted itself so beautifully to the dance that the villagers danced to the exciting, lively music for hours on end. Americans first viewed the Paso Doble when flamenco dancers used this music to dance the role of a bullfighter. It has been a favorite (in its ballroom version) since the 1930s. In the ballroom version of the Paso Doble, the gentleman usually portrays the bullfighter and the lady is his cape, although there are times when a very strong aggressive action in certain movements seems to suggest the actions of the bull. The Paso Doble moves around the floor and is characterized by sharp movements. A most helpful aid in acquiring the proper feeling is to visualize the pageantry of the matadors, as they make their grand entry into the bull ring and feel the attitude that is displayed during the fight.

Both Haiti and the Dominican Republic claim Merengue as their own. According to Haitian lore, an earlier ruler of their country had a lame son who liked to dance. In order that this beloved prince would not feel self-conscious about his affliction, the entire populace took to dancing as though they all were lame. The Dominican’s version is that the dance originated at a fiesta that was given to honor a returning war hero. When the brave warrior rose to dance, he limped on his wounded left leg. Rather than make him feel self-conscious, all the men present favored their left legs as they danced. In both countries for many generations, the Merengue was taught and danced with these back stories in mind. When couples got up to dance the Merengue, the man favored his left leg and the lady favored her right leg; while flexing their knees a bit more than usual and at the same time leaning the body slightly to the same side. Haitians and Dominicans alike refer to the Merengue as their “singing dance;” this is understandable when you consider the exhilarating brightness of the staccato rhythm. The Merengue is danced in place to Latin music.

No other dance from south of the (U.S.) border has ever attained the instantaneous popularity than the zestful Mambo did when it was first introduced from Latin America. The extent of the Mambo’s reach can be observed by the widespread use of its rhythm by Tin Pan Alley. Love ballads were written to a slow Mambo beat, novelty songs to a fast Mambo beat, and rock ‘n’ roll numbers were being tailored to the tempo. Across the nation, dancers who had never progressed beyond the Foxtrot and Waltz were clamoring for Mambo instruction.

The Foxtrot dance step was named after Harry Fox, a vaudeville dancer and comedian. This dance marked a new phase of ballroom dancing where partners danced closer together and ad-libbed to ragtime music. The accent has been placed on smoother dancing and individualized expression, with the International style danced entirely in contact and the American style allowing for freedom of expression.

Eastern Swing or East Coast Swing (or just Swing), evolved from the Lindy Hop and is perhaps the most famous American folk dance. The best known forms of Swing include the Charleston, Black Bottom, and Shag. In the early 1940s, these forms consolidated into what was called the Lindy. The Lindy was first danced as a modified box step, with a slight shuffling movement. The shuffling movement of the original Lindy can be likened to today’s single rhythm in Swing. As the shuffling, or single rhythm progressed, it evolved into both the double and triple time Lindy. Today all three form the basis of good Swing dancing. About 55 years ago, Swing was danced in the Harlem section of NYC at a time when band greats such as Chic Webb, Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman were popular and it was there where the dance took on most of today’s popular steps and styling. For many years, the better establishments frowned upon the wilder forms of Swing dancing because the acrobatics involved limited the number of people who could dance at one time. It is possible however, to do fine dancing in a relatively small area. There is no question that Swing is here to stay. In all parts of the country one can find dancers adding their own interpretations and changes to style. All dances, in order to survive, must be built up from a firm basic movement so that adlibbing and complete freedom of expression can be interpreted into the dance. Swing has these attributes. Swing dancing was revived in the late 1990’s to the early 2000’s by such bands as the Brian Setzer Orchestra and the Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. The Swing is a spot dance that does not move along the line of dance. Free rhythmic interpretation is characteristic, using single, double or triple rhythms. A relaxed shuffling movement and use of upper body sway is also used to highlight the Swing. Give Fred Astaire Dance Studios a call today, and take advantage of our special introductory offer for new students. You’ll be on your way to confident dancing after just one lesson!

Cha Cha is a lively and energetic dance that originated in Cuba, taking its name from the unique rhythm created by the syncopation of the fourth beat. This dynamic style blends elements from the Mambo, Rumba, and, to some extent, the Lindy, all of which share the same iconic one-two-three triple step. While its roots are firmly planted in Latin America, Cha Cha blossomed into its own distinct dance under the influence of North America. Often closely tied to Mambo, Cha Cha sets itself apart with a playful rhythm and a charm that has captivated dancers worldwide.

The Bolero was introduced to a U.S. audience in the mid-1930s; and at that time, it was danced in its classical form, which was performed to a constant beat of drums. It emerged from this classical form to what was called Son, with a faster and livelier tempo (later renamed as the Rumba). Spanish dancer Sebastian Cereza is credited with creating the dance in the year 1780; since then, the Bolero has remained a true source of expressing sensuous feelings. It is truly the “dance of love.” The Bolero is one of the most expressive dances: the use of arms and hands, legs and feet, as well as facial expression, all contribute to its beauty. Get started with your dancing adventure today, at Fred Astaire Dance Studios. We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor!

Argentine Tango is a dance and music that originated in Buenos Aires at the turn of the century, developed in the melting pot of cultures that was Buenos Aires. The word Tango was used at the time to describe various music and dance. The exact origins of Tango—both the dance and the word itself—are lost in myth and an unrecorded history.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we are experts at all styles of ballroom dance – and can incorporate any one (or more!) of them into your Wedding Dance choreography. From a classic Waltz or Foxtrot or sultry Tango, to a fun & lively Country Western Two-Step and more, our certified Dance Instructors can help!

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we are experts at all styles of ballroom dance – and can incorporate any one (or more!) of them into your Wedding Dance choreography. From a classic Waltz or Foxtrot or sultry Tango, to a fun & lively Country Western Two-Step and more, our certified Dance Instructors can help!

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we are experts at all styles of ballroom dance – and can incorporate any one (or more!) of them into your Wedding Dance choreography. From a classic Waltz or Foxtrot or sultry Tango, to a fun & lively Country Western Two-Step and more, our certified Dance Instructors can help!

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we are experts at all styles of ballroom dance – and can incorporate any one (or more!) of them into your Wedding Dance choreography. From a classic Waltz or Foxtrot or sultry Tango, to a fun & lively Country Western Two-Step and more, our certified Dance Instructors can help!

In a short amount of time, the certified Dance Instructors at Fred Astaire Dance Studios can help you learn a few basic steps, so you’ll feel at ease and confident on your wedding day. Have something bigger in mind? We can choreograph the whole dance with you – even include the wedding party!

Wedding dance lessons are a great way to have fun and relax before your big day! With all the decisions, schedules and deadlines involved in wedding planning, enjoying this time together, that’s just for you, can help you both de-stress and re-energize – and we promise you’ll have lots of fun doing it!

If you’re looking for something really memorable, let us choreograph a "YouTube-worthy" wedding dance for you & your entire wedding party, that’s even set to your favorite music! Extend those special wedding day moments with an awesome dance routine you’ll love re-living, again and again.

A memorable Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dance is a wonderful compliment to your special day. Including your parents (or the special friends or family members who will be standing in that traditional role) in your wedding dance is a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation.

Your wedding day First Dance is a romantic expression of your love and commitment – both for you and your new spouse, and for the special guests who are celebrating with you. From a few simple steps to get by, to a fully choreographed dance routine, let us help make your first dance as unique as the rest of your wedding day.

Customize your Wedding Dance Instruction Programs to give you the skills and confidence to show off your elegance and style on your wedding day. Create a special "First Dance" that’s totally unique, whether that’s elegant, contemporary, or just plain fun.

2 Private Lessons and 1 Studio Party for only $79! Congratulations on taking the first step on your dance journey, and welcome to Fred Astaire Dance Studios.

Whether you’re interested in wedding dance lessons, a new hobby or way to connect with your partner, improving your social life, physical or emotional well-being, or taking your skills to the next level, you’ve come to the right place – and we’re happy you’re here!

Our official teaching method includes Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties, to ensure you learn as much as possible, in the least amount of time, with the most retention… and have the most FUN doing it!

Our official teaching method includes Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties, to ensure you learn as much as possible, in the least amount of time, with the most retention… and have the most FUN doing it!

Our official teaching method includes Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties, to ensure you learn as much as possible, in the least amount of time, with the most retention… and have the most FUN doing it!

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we are experts at all styles of ballroom dance – and can incorporate any one (or more!) of them into your Wedding Dance choreography. From a classic Waltz or Foxtrot or sultry Tango, to a fun & lively Country Western Two-Step and more, our certified Dance Instructors can help!

The number of lessons you’ll want to take depends on the type of First Dance you want to create. Our certified Instructors and Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ proven method of teaching ensure that you’ll learn as much as possible, in the shortest amount of time, with the most retention, and the most FUN. We work with you to create a First Dance that fits your vision, in the amount of time you have available. We can guarantee you’ll feel confident and comfortable on your Wedding Day. In fact, you’ll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your very first lesson!

While wedding shoes are a beautiful accessory for your wedding attire, they are not always designed for comfort or movement. We recommend that you bring your wedding shoes to your first dance lesson, so your Fred Astaire Dance Studios Instructor can help you determine whether you can comfortably dance in them, or whether you should consider a pair of ballroom dancing shoes for your First Dance and reception. Your friends and family won’t even notice the switch – but you’ll be so much more comfortable!

We realize that some Students arrive for lessons straight from the office, and others may be dressed more casually for their lessons – either is fine. The most important thing is to wear something comfortable, which allows you to move easily. Of course, you’ll also want to select comfortable shoes. We suggest leather-sole shoes for gentlemen, and a shoe with a back for ladies (similar to what you might wear to go out dancing). If you’ve already purchased your wedding shoes, we suggest you bring them along to your first lesson, so we can help you determine if you’ll be able to dance comfortably in them. Please note that athletic shoes do NOT work well on the ballroom dance floor because they stick, which will make it difficult to move your feet.

Including your parents (or friends or family members who will be standing in that role) in your wedding dance can make your time on the dance floor extra special, and it’s a demonstration of your love and appreciation for them. While our main focus and priority will be on your First Dance, we do suggest a few lessons for parents if you plan to feature a traditional Mother/Son and Father/Daughter specialty dance during your reception.

These days, more and more couples are including their wedding party in dance lessons – to create a unique dance routine, or even re-create a famous dance scene from your favorite movie, musical or video! A YouTube-worthy First Dance can be a show-stopping surprise for your friends and family, and will become moments you’ll all want to re-watch, again and again.

We offer special introductory packages that help you create a dream Wedding Dance that’s a great value. Beyond that, we will tailor a program to meet your individual goals and budget. Lessons with just the two of you can range from a few simple dance steps to a fully-choreographed dance. We can include your wedding party, for a YouTube-worthy routine. And including your parents (or special friends or family members who will be standing in that traditional role) in your Wedding Dance can be a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation. It’s totally up to you!

It all starts with a free consultation at Fred Astaire Dance Studios. We’ll discuss your plans, and learn more about your dream Wedding Dance. We encourage you to bring along favorite songs, pictures of the venue & your wedding attire, examples of dance videos you love, etc. Everything you can share helps us understand your goals for the day, so we can help you create a Wedding Dance experience that will amaze your guests and make your wedding even more special.

If you’re reading this now, it’s probably time to get started because the longer you wait, the less time you have to create your dream Wedding Dance! Due to wedding couples’ typically hectic schedules, we recommend getting started at least 5-6 months before your wedding. This will give you plenty of time for scheduling lessons (for you, and possibly your parents and wedding party), and to truly feel confident with your dance. Of course, we can help couples who have less time available, too. Don’t put it off – contact us today to get started.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, our Wedding Dance programs are tailored to you – your style & personality, and your priorities for the music and choice of dance. Our friendly, certified Dance Instructors can teach everything from a few simple dance steps to a fully-choreographed routine for your entire wedding party – it’s up to you!

From ceremony to reception, your wedding day is a celebration of your love for each other. Everything you’re planning – the venue, flowers, attire, food, music, and more will be a reflection of your style and personality, and your First Dance should be, too! For many couples, however, their First Dance can be a nerve-wracking experience. But after just a few Wedding Dance lessons at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, you’ll have the skills and confidence to wow your guests on the dance floor and create special memories you’ll always treasure. Wedding Dance lessons are also a great way to have fun and relax before the Big Day. Think of it as “date nights”!

Wedding dance lessons are a great way to have fun and relax before your big day! With all the decisions, schedules and deadlines involved in wedding planning, enjoying this time together, that’s just for you, can help you both de-stress and re-energize – and we promise you’ll have lots of fun doing it! Don’t forget, the steps, skills, and techniques learned as you enjoy dance lessons in preparation for your wedding day, can then go on to be used on your honeymoon, at social parties, or any other future events you may enjoy together!

If you’re looking for something really memorable, let us choreograph a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for you & your entire wedding party, that’s even set to your favorite music! Extend those special wedding day moments with an awesome dance routine you’ll love re-living, again and again.

A memorable Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dance is a wonderful compliment to your special day. Including your parents (or the special friends or family members who will be standing in that traditional role) in your wedding dance is a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation. We’d also recommend scheduling a few wedding dance lessons for them!

Your wedding day First Dance is a romantic expression of your love and commitment – both for you and your new spouse, and for the special guests who are celebrating with you. From a few simple steps to get by, to a fully choreographed dance routine, let us help make your first dance as unique as the rest of your wedding day.

We customize our Wedding Dance Instruction Programs just for you, to give you the skills and confidence to show off your elegance and style – and maybe even a little personality on your wedding day. We’ll help you create a special “First Dance” that’s totally “YOU” – whether that’s elegant, contemporary, or just plain fun. Amaze your family and friends with your new-found dance skills, and enjoy magical wedding dance memories that will be yours forever.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, you’ll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your very first lesson! Our official teaching method includes Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties, to ensure you learn as much as possible, in the least amount of time, with the most retention… and have the most FUN doing it! At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, all new dance Students can take advantage of our special money-saving Introductory Offer! Fred Astaire dance instructors hail from all over the world. Many have Fine Arts degrees, and are actively competing and award-winning professional dancers.

Whether you’re interested in wedding dance lessons, a new hobby or way to connect with your partner, improving your social life, physical or emotional well-being, or taking your skills to the next level, you’ve come to the right place – and we’re happy you’re here! From a simple First Dance to a “YouTube-Worthy” routine for the entire wedding party, Fred Astaire Dance Studios can help make your Wedding Day even more special!

Our official teaching method includes Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties, to ensure you learn as much as possible, in the least amount of time, with the most retention… and have the most FUN doing it! Fred Astaire Dance Studios can help make your Wedding Day even more special! At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, all new dance Students can take advantage of our special money-saving Introductory Offer!

Discover the world of dance with our Introductory Dance Special! This is the perfect way to get started in the world of dance with fun, easy-to-start lessons that you can enjoy at any skill or comfort level! You’ll also enjoy the supportive, creative, and welcoming social experience of our amazing themed Dance Parties! Give us a call at 480-917-9133 , or purchase now using the Payment button below! Only for $99!! Two Private Dance Lessons for an individual or couple. 2 Dance Party Admission.

Enjoy the supportive, creative, and welcoming social experience of our amazing themed Dance Parties! A fun & engaging way to exercise and improve your social life.

Learn how to ballroom dance. Discover a warm, welcoming & 100% non-judgmental community that will inspire you to reach new heights, feel and look confident, and have fun doing it.

Discover the world of dance with our Introductory Dance Special! This is the perfect way to get started in the world of dance with fun, easy-to-start lessons that you can enjoy at any skill or comfort level!

Two Practice Parties included in this introductory offer. Enjoy the supportive, creative, and welcoming social experience of our amazing themed Dance Parties! A fun & engaging way to exercise and improve your social life.

Two Private Dance Lessons for an individual or couple. Learn and retain more, faster – regardless of your age, dancing skills or physical abilities. Discover your passion for dance with our unique teaching method.