Fred Astaire Dance Studios Glenn Heights

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. Step in to Fred Astaire Dance Studios, and get started today! And be sure to ask about our special Introductory Offer for new students.

The Waltz is a dance steeped in history, tracing its roots back over 400 years to the folk dances of Bavaria. Originally performed as a round dance known as the Volte during the 16th century, it eventually spread across Europe. Over time, it adopted several names, including the Galop, Redowa, Boston, and Hop Waltz, each reflecting the dance’s evolving style and cultural significance. Today, the Waltz is danced in three distinct tempos: the quick and traditional Viennese Waltz, the medium-tempo style, and the slower, romantic version unique to American ballrooms. With its graceful rise and fall and sweeping turns, the Waltz creates a sense of floating across the floor, evoking the elegance of a bygone era.

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. Waltz music expresses eloquently, the carefree gaiety of those bygone days that are so closely linked to Vienna, The Blue Danube and Strauss. The most startling innovation of the dance was the close proximity of the partners; so daring, it only became socially acceptable in Great Britain after it was danced publicly by Queen Victoria. It is a dance that requires a great deal of control and stamina, due mainly to the tempo of the music. The Viennese Waltz is a progressive and turning dance and features some figures that are danced in place. Rise and fall is used in the dance but differently than in other smooth dances. In Waltz and Foxtrot, a dancer will often rise above their normal standing height but in the Viennese Waltz that’s not done. Rise is created through the knees and body. From wedding dance instruction, to a new hobby or a way to connect with your partner, you’ll learn more, faster and with more FUN, at Fred Astaire Dance Studios!

The Tango made its first appearance during the greatest period of the dance evolution in American history (1910-1914). 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.

When Brazilian Samba first dazzled U.S. audiences in 1929, it quickly became a nationwide sensation. This vibrant dance, like many from Brazil, blends the lively rhythms of African and Latin American music with beautifully expressive melodies. Samba’s unique charm lies in its serenade-like form, with repeated melodies punctuated by the strumming of guitars or other stringed instruments. Born in Bahia, Brazil, Samba first gained prominence in Rio de Janeiro before captivating dancers around the world. Its infectious rhythm and festive spirit are iconic, evoking images of the vibrant Carnival celebrations that define Brazilian culture. In Brazil, Samba is typically performed at a moderately slow tempo, emphasizing its smooth and celebratory essence. However, when Samba crossed borders, it took on a faster, more energetic style that matched the dynamic pace of social and competitive dancing in the U.S. This dual personality has helped Samba thrive globally, offering a dance experience that’s both rooted in tradition and adaptable to modern music. Whether performed on grand stages or casual dance floors, Samba’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal. One of the most captivating aspects of Samba is its ability to lift your spirits and transport you to a lively Brazilian celebration. Its playful yet elegant movements, coupled with its infectious rhythm, make it a favorite among dancers of all levels. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural richness of its origins or the energetic flair of its modern interpretation, Samba offers a joyous escape and a chance to connect with music and movement in a unique way.

Salsa is a dance that radiates passion, energy, and sheer joy. Rooted in the Cuban Son and Afro-Cuban Rumba, it has grown into a vibrant and ever-evolving art form. Salsa’s dynamic nature has given rise to various modern styles, each reflecting the culture and flair of the regions where they developed.

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: the Paso Doble, the Samba, the Cha Cha, and the Jive being the others. 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. Its tantalizing rhythm first invaded the United Sates in the early 1930s, and has remained one of the most popular social dances. The Rumba is characterized by a smooth, subtle hip motion and a heavy walking step.

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.

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.

Jive evolved from the popular American dances of the 1930’s such as Jitterbug, Boogie-Woogie, Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, Shag, Rock “n” Roll etc. Eventually all of these styles of dance would be coupled under the Hat of “Jive”, but in the 1940’s a combination of these styles was given the name “Jive” and the dance was born. During World War II American G.I’s took the dance to Europe where it soon became very popular, especially among the young. It was new, fresh, and exciting. It was adapted by the French and became very popular in Britain and eventually in 1968 it was adopted as the fifth Latin dance in International competitions. The modern form of ballroom jive is a very happy and boppy dance, with many flicks & kicks. The Jive music is written in 4/4 time and should be played at a tempo of about 38 – 44 bars per minute. A spot dance not moving along the Line of Dance. Relaxed, springy action is the basic characteristic of the International Style Jive with lots of flicks and kicks in the advanced style.

Latin Hustle, also known as Rope Hustle, emerged from the integration of intricate turn patterns and rhythmic arm movements reminiscent of mambo and salsa into the early Hustle dance.

Hustle is a fast-paced, smooth, and endlessly fun partner dance characterized by its continuous spins, dramatic partner exchanges, and room for personal expression. It combines energy, rhythm, and creativity, making it perfect for dancers of all levels.

The Foxtrot dance step was named after vaudeville dancer and comedian Harry Fox. This dance marked a new phase of ballroom dancing where partners danced closer together and ad-libbed to ragtime music. By 1915, with the advent of new melodic "pop" songs, the dancing began to absorb the better attributes of older dances, focusing on smoother dancing and individualized 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.

Cha Cha is an exciting and energetic dance that traces its roots to Cuba, where its rhythm was born from a syncopation on the fourth beat. Its unique style draws inspiration from three key dances: the Mambo, Rumba, and even the Lindy. Each of these influences contributes to the Cha Cha’s iconic one-two-three triple-step rhythm, giving it a playful and infectious quality. While firmly grounded in its Latin origins, the Cha Cha truly blossomed under North American influence, evolving into a distinct dance style that’s both fun and approachable.

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!

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. The generally accepted theory is that in the mid-1800s, African slaves were brought to Argentina and began to influence the local culture. The word “Tango” may be straightforwardly African in origin, meaning “closed place” or “reserved ground.” Or it may derive from Portuguese (and from the Latin verb tanguere, to touch) and was picked up by Africans on the slave ships. Whatever its origin, the word “Tango” acquired the standard meaning of the place where African slaves and others gathered to dance.

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.

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 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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

Wedding Dance lessons are also a great way to have fun and relax before the Big Day. Think of it as “date nights”! With all the decisions and deadlines involved in wedding planning, enjoying this time together can help you both de-stress and re-energize, and we guarantee you’ll have LOTS of fun.

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!

Looking for something really memorable? We can create a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for the entire wedding party, that’s even set to your favorite music!

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

Your first dance is an everlasting expression of your love and commitment – for you and your new spouse, as well as for the special guests celebrating with you.

Customize our Wedding Dance Instruction Programs just for the two of you, to give you the confidence and skills to show off your elegance, style – and maybe even a little personality on your wedding day dance floor.

Our prices vary as dance lesson programs are designed to fit each student’s specific interests & goals – social dancing, wedding, competitive dancing, etc. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we will tailor programs to meet your individual goals and budget.

Our prices vary as dance lesson programs are designed to fit each student’s specific interests & goals – social dancing, wedding, competitive dancing, etc. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we will tailor programs to meet your individual goals and budget.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, all new dance Students can take advantage of our special money-saving Introductory Offer! Simply complete and submit the Intro Offer form on this website to get yours, and we’ll contact you right away to learn about your dance goals and help you set up your first Lesson.

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

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

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. Fred Astaire Dance Studios can help make your Wedding Day even more special!

2 Private 40 Minute Lessons AND 2 Practice Sessions for $99! 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.

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!

Looking for something really memorable? We can create a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for the entire wedding party, that’s even set to your favorite music! You’ll be able to extend those special wedding day moments with this awesome routine that you’ll want to re-live, again and again.

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

Your first dance is an everlasting expression of your love and commitment – for you and your new spouse, as well as for the special guests celebrating with you. In a short time, our qualified instructors will assist in teaching you a few basic steps or choreographing a full dance to “your special song.” ‘Wow’ the crowd and make your first dance as unique as the rest of your wedding day.

We customize our Wedding Dance Instruction Programs just for the two of you, to give you the confidence and skills to show off your elegance, style – and maybe even a little personality on your wedding day dance floor. We can 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 memories that will be yours forever.

Fred Astaire dance instructors are dedicated to helping you discover the joy of ballroom dancing, and to making your learning experience enjoyable, educational, rewarding – and FUN!

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

Start your dance journey off on the right foot with this amazing dance offer! This package includes everything you need to dip your toes into the world of dance at Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Glenn Heights, and help you find what styles speak to you! Plus, you’ll get to enjoy a taste of our always awesome Dance Party events, the perfect place to make new friends, practice your moves, and have a ball!

Each of our Perfect Date packages is an amazing gift to get you dancing and having fun with a friend, family member, or romantic partner. These offers valid for new students only. We recommend these Offers to anyone new to our studio, so they can gain a firsthand impression of our studio, our teaching methods, and our stellar staff.

Each of our Perfect Date packages is an amazing gift to get you dancing and having fun with a friend, family member, or romantic partner. These offers valid for new students only. We recommend these Offers to anyone new to our studio, so they can gain a firsthand impression of our studio, our teaching methods, and our stellar staff.

Each of our Perfect Date packages is an amazing gift to get you dancing and having fun with a friend, family member, or romantic partner. These offers valid for new students only. We recommend these Offers to anyone new to our studio, so they can gain a firsthand impression of our studio, our teaching methods, and our stellar staff.

2 Private 40 Minute Lessons AND 2 Practice Sessions for $99! This introductory offer is designed to help you get started dancing and discover your passion for dance. Learn from certified instructors with a unique teaching method.