Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Yoga and ballet stretches can be extremely beneficial as pre-ballroom dance warm-ups, but be sure to talk with your Fred Astaire Dance Studios instructor about a recommended warm-up regimen.

Ballroom dancing is that perfect combination of physical activity, social interaction, and mental stimulation, and it can bring so much to your life. It’s a great workout; has documented physical and mental health benefits; can enhance your social life and self-confidence; reduces stress and depression; promotes relaxation; is a wonderful outlet for self-expression and creativity; and it’s FUN!! With all these reasons to start dancing – we challenge you to find a good reason NOT to.

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 dates back to the country folk dances of Bavaria, some 400 years ago, but was not introduced into “society” until 1812, when it made its appearance in English ballrooms. During the 16th century, it was simply danced as a round dance called the Volte. In most dance history books, it is often stated that the Volte made its first outside appearance in Italy, and then later on to France and Germany. In those early days, the Waltz had quite a few different names. Some of these names were the Galop, Redowa, Boston and the Hop Waltz. When the Waltz was first introduced into the ballrooms of the world in the early 19th century, it was met with outrage and indignation. People were shocked by the sight of a man dancing with his hand upon a lady’s waist (as no proper young maiden would compromise herself so) and thus, the Waltz was thought to be a wicked dance. The Waltz did not become popular among the European middle class until the first decade of the 20th century. Until then, it was the exclusive preserve of the aristocracy. In the United States, where no blue-blood caste existed, it was danced by the populace as early as 1840. Immediately upon its introduction in this country, the Waltz became one of the most popular dances. It was so popular, it survived the “ragtime revolution.” With the advent of ragtime in 1910, the Waltz fell out of favor with the public, being supplanted by the many walking/strutting dances of that era. Dancers who had not mastered the techniques and whirling patterns of the Waltz quickly learned the simple walking patterns, which ushered in the ragtime rage and birth of the Foxtrot. In the latter part of the 19th century, composers were writing Waltzes to a slower tempo than that of the original Viennese style. The box step, typical of the American style Waltz, was being taught in the 1880s and an even slower waltz came into prominence in the early 1920s. The result is three distinct tempos: (1) the Viennese Waltz (fast), (2) medium Waltz, and (3) slow Waltz — the last two being of American invention. The Waltz is a progressive and turning dance with figures designed for both a larger ballroom floor and the average dance floor. The use of sway, rise and fall highlight the smooth, lilting style of the Waltz. Being a very traditional style of dance, the Waltz makes one feel like a princess or a prince at the ball! Whether you are interested in wedding dance instruction, a new hobby or a way to connect with your partner, or want to take your dance skills to the next level, Fred Astaire’s teaching methods will result in faster learning rates, higher levels of achievement – and more FUN! Contact us, at Fred Astaire Dance Studios – and be sure to ask about our special Introductory Offer for new students!

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.

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.

When the Brazilian Samba was first introduced to the U.S. Dance Masters in 1929, it became an overnight sensation. Like many other Brazilian dances, the music is an amalgamation of African and Latin American rhythm that is adorned with expressive, melodic lines. In form, the Samba is a serenade; the repetition of its melody is continually interrupted by the strumming of a guitar or other stringed instruments. Originating in Bahia, Brazil, the dance first became popular in Rio de Janeiro, and later, its intoxicating rhythm was taken up by serious Latin American composers. The Samba is festive and lighthearted, and performed today in all parts of the world. It brings to mind pictures of Rio’s festive and exotic Carnival! In its native land, the Samba is usually danced to a moderately slow tempo which contrasts vividly with the spirited version favored in U.S. The Samba has withstood the test of time and still ranks high among social as well as competitive dancers.

Oozing with a sensuous style, Salsa has it all – passion, energy, and joy. As a dance form, Salsa has its origins in the Cuban Son and the Afro-Cuban dance, Rumba. As it relates to the popular music style, Salsa is continuously evolving, and new modern dance styles are associated and named according to the geographical areas that they are developed in. Some of the popular Salsa styles are Cuban, Columbian, Los Angeles, New York (or Eddie Torres Style), Palladium, Puerto Rican, Rueda, and On Clave. In the early 1970s in New York City, several franchised and independent dance studios, sensing the popularity of the burgeoning dance form capitalized on the Salsa craze by developing a standardized curriculum in which to teach the dance to an eager public. Salsa taught in Fred Astaire Dance Studios is based on Mambo patterns, but danced on the “one.” Take the first step towards realizing your ballroom dance goals, at your local Fred Astaire Dance Studio!

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 Quickstep music is written in 4/4 time and should be played at a tempo of about 48 -­‐ 52 measures per minute for examinations and competitions. The Quickstep is a progressive and turning dance moving along the Line of Dance, utilizing Walks and Chasse movements. Rise and Fall, Sway and Bounce action are the basic characteristics of the International Style Quickstep.

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. 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.

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. Give us a call at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, and get started today with our special introductory offer, just for new students!

In the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s, discotheques (or discos), with high quality sound systems and flashing lights became a popular form of entertainment in Europe and the U.S. Early ‘70s dancing in discos was mostly freestyle dancing (similar to the “rock” style exhibited by pop stars of the day like The Jackson 5) along with the prerequisite dress code of bellbottom pants and elevator shoes.

The Foxtrot dance step was lent its name by Harry Fox, a vaudeville dancer and comedian, who was believed to be the first to use the “slow step.” This first freestyle use of the “slow step” came into vogue around 1912, during the period of ragtime music, marking a completely new phase of ballroom dancing where partners danced much closer together and ad-libbed to the new and exhilarating music. By 1915, new and melodic “pop” songs were being written, and the public began to appreciate a smoother, more rhythmic style of music, and their dancing began to absorb the better attributes of the older dances. From 1917 up to the present time, the accent has been placed on smoother dancing and individualized expression. By 1960, the International style of dancing was making its way into the U.S. ballrooms and many of the techniques were implemented into the American style Foxtrot. As of this writing, the main difference between the two styles is that the International style Foxtrot is danced entirely in contact maintaining the normal dance hold, while the American style allows for complete freedom of expression utilizing various dance holds and positions. With its smooth and sophisticated feeling, most figures are designed for the larger ballroom floor. However, these same figures are also suited to the average dance floor when danced more compactly.

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.

Cha Cha is a dance of Cuban origin, and derives its name from the rhythm developed by a syncopation of the fourth beat. Cha Cha gathers its flavor, rhythm and charm from a derivation of three primary sources: the Mambo, Rumba, and indirectly, the Lindy.

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.

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 just a short amount of time, our Dance Instructors can help you master a few basic steps, so you’ll feel at ease and confident on your wedding day. If you have something bigger in mind, we can choreograph the whole dance with you – even include the wedding party!

Looking for something really memorable? We can create a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for the entire bridal 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 compliments 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 a memorable expression of your love and commitment – for you and your new spouse, and for the special guests who are celebrating with you. From a few simple dance steps to get by, to a fully choreographed routine, we can help make your first dance as unique as the rest of your wedding day.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, 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.

Wedding dance lessons are a great way to have fun and relax before the big day. Don’t get stressed about your dances! Fred Astaire Dance Studios is here to help you perfect your wedding dances.

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!

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!

Includes 1 private lesson, 1 group lesson, and 1 practice party. Perfect for beginners or those looking to dance competitively. Our instructors will help you achieve your goals.

Learning how to ballroom dance is always fun! Step inside, and discover a warm, welcoming and 100% non-judgmental community that will inspire you to reach new heights, feel and look confident, and have fun doing it.

You will be introduced to the basics of social dancing without having to leave your home. You can take a lesson by yourself or with a partner or even your whole family for a fun dance lesson.

Our studio offers fun introductory online dance lessons from the convenience of your living room. All you need is a tablet or computer and we can help you with the rest. You will be introduced to the basics of social dancing without having to leave your home.

1 private lesson, 1 group lesson, 1 practice party. New students only. Stuck at home? Stressed? Bored? Want to get back in shape? Our studio offers fun introductory online dance lessons from the convenience of your living room.

Yoga and ballet stretches can be extremely beneficial as pre-ballroom dance warm-ups, but be sure to talk with your Fred Astaire Dance Studios instructor about a recommended warm-up regimen.

Yoga and ballet stretches can be extremely beneficial as pre-ballroom dance warm-ups, but be sure to talk with your Fred Astaire Dance Studios instructor about a recommended warm-up regimen.

Ballroom dancing is that perfect combination of physical activity, social interaction, and mental stimulation, and it can bring so much to your life. It’s a great workout; has documented physical and mental health benefits; can enhance your social life and self-confidence; reduces stress and depression; promotes relaxation; is a wonderful outlet for self-expression and creativity; and it’s FUN!!

Our most popular! enables students to dance on any size dance floor, to any music, with any partner, and feel comfortable and confident.

Our Beginner and Social Foundation Programs teach newer students the step patterns and techniques to move comfortably around the dance floor.

Regularly scheduled practice parties complete the information taught in your private lessons and group classes. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ practice parties, we turn down the lights, turn up the music, and enjoy time dancing with different people in a relaxed social setting. Practice parties help you “put it all together”, aid with music identification, and help you learn how not to run into other people on the dance floor. Practice parties are a great (& FUN!) way to apply what you’re learning.

Group classes complement your private lessons, because this is where patterns, technique, and style are learned. Group classes also enable you to meet other students with similar dancing goals, develop balance, and learn the mechanics of dancing.

Private lessons, with one or more dance instructors, give you the specialized and personalized attention to look and feel confident on the dance floor, while developing the ability to lead or follow any partner. We move at your pace, perfecting and polishing your dancing all the while.

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, 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!

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.

First Dance lessons for “the Big Day” are a great way to have fun and relax, too. With all the decisions, schedules and deadlines involved in planning your wedding, enjoying this time together that’s just for you can help you re-energize and de-stress – and we know you’ll have lots of fun doing it!

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.

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!

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!

Special introductory offer for new students including one private lesson, one group lesson, and one practice party. Start dancing today and discover how much fun ballroom dancing can be.

Includes 3 group classes, and 3 practice parties. For New Students Only. Non-transferable. No cash value. Redeemable only for the value and services indicated.

Includes 2 group classes, and 2 practice parties. For New Students Only. Non-transferable. No cash value. Redeemable only for the value and services indicated.

Includes 1 group class, and 2 practice parties. For New Students Only. Non-transferable. No cash value. Redeemable only for the value and services indicated.

Our certified instructors will help you bring your dancing skills to the next level. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, we provide a unique teaching method to help you learn and retain more, faster.

Step inside our studio and discover a community that will help you improve your social life. Learn to dance and gain confidence in a fun and supportive environment.

Learn to dance and create a great way to connect or re-connect with your partner. Discover a shared passion and improve your relationship through the joy of dance.

Our dance classes are a fun and engaging way to exercise. Get back in shape and feel the benefits of a new dance routine in a welcoming community.

Start dancing with Fred Astaire Dance Studios of Orange and discover a new hobby. We make learning how to ballroom dance fun and engaging, providing a great way to exercise and improve your social life.

Discover your passion for dance by learning romantic wedding dances. Our studio offers a warm, welcoming and 100% non-judgmental community that will inspire you to reach new heights, feel and look confident, and have fun doing it.

Learn the basics of social dancing with our certified instructors and unique teaching method. We help you learn and retain more, faster – regardless of your age, dancing skills or physical abilities. Learning how to ballroom dance is always fun!

Fun introductory online dance lessons from the convenience of your living room. All you need is a tablet or computer and we can help you with the rest. You will be introduced to the basics of social dancing without having to leave your home.

Includes 1 private lesson, 1 group lesson, and 1 practice party. This special introductory offer is available for new students only.