Fred Astaire Dance Studios

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!

Fred Astaire Dance Studios can help make your Wedding Day even more special, whether it's a simple First Dance or a "YouTube-Worthy" routine for the entire wedding party.

Special offer for new students on your first dance lesson. Learn about your dance goals and set up your first private lesson to discover how much fun ballroom dancing can be.

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!!

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.

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! Contact us today, and be sure to ask about our special introductory offer for new students.

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.

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! Contact us today, at Fred Astaire Dance Studios – and ask about our Introductory Offer just for new students! We’ll look forward to seeing you on the dance floor.

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.

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. The modern form of ballroom jive is a very happy and boppy dance, with many flicks & kicks.

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.

Harry Fox, a vaudeville dancer and comedian lent his name to the Foxtrot dance step. Fox was believed to be the first to use the “slow step,” hence… the birth of the Foxtrot. This first freestyle use of the “slow step” came into vogue around 1912, during the period of ragtime music. This marked a completely new phase of ballroom dancing where partners danced much closer together and ad-libbed to the new and exhilarating music. By 1915, another change took place — new and melodic “pop” songs were being written; tunes like, “Oh, You Beautiful Doll” and “Ida” were the smash hits of the day. The public was quick to appreciate the change to 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. 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.

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 (with each being danced to the same one-two-three triple step). The Cha Cha, while sprung up from Latin American roots in Cuba, really flowered under North American influence. While closely identified with the aforementioned Mambo, Cha Cha has enough intrinsic individuality to be classified as a distinct dance. Much has been written about the history of the Rumba and the Mambo, while little has been explored about the origins of Cha Cha, despite it being a dance to be reckoned with. Cha Cha’s tempo is anywhere from slow and staccato to fast and lively. It is very much an on-the-beat dance and hard not to inject one’s own feelings into it. This facet, more than any other, makes the dance fun for people of all ages. It is a real let-it-all-out type of dance. Cha Cha is danced in place as the steps are quite compact, with the feet usually no more than 12 inches apart. Popularized in the 1950’s with music by such artists as Tito Puente and Tito Rodriguez, today it is danced to popular night club kind of music.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

Learning to dance is a fun way to relieve the stress of your wedding planning! Our certified Dance Instructors can help you feel at ease and confident on your wedding day. We can choreograph the whole dance with you – even including the wedding party. The fact is, there are no hard and fast rules – so you decide on the plan.

Attending an upcoming wedding? Well you better be prepared too! Weddings are all about the love between two people. That’s why they’re a great place for singles to meet each other and for couples to rekindle their love for each other. The magic happens on the dance floor. Come in for our introductory offer and we’ll have you looking as fabulous as the bride and groom!

If you’re looking for something really memorable, we can choreograph a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for the whole wedding party, that’s even set to your favorite music! Extend those special moments with an awesome routine you’ll want to re-live, again and again. Your entire wedding party will love the team-building and fun that a large group class can provide.

A Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dance is a memorable complement to your First Dance. Including your parents (or the special friends or family members who will be standing in that traditional role) in your reception plans is a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation. So why not schedule a few wedding dance lessons for them, too?

The Best First Dance Wedding Dance Lessons in Worcester. Make Wedding Dance Memories That Will Last a Lifetime… We know how important your Wedding Day is, and we want to help make it even more special!

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we can customize a Wedding Dance Lesson Program just for you, to give you both the confidence and skills to show off your style, elegance – and maybe even a little personality at your wedding reception. Let us help you create a special “First Dance” that’s totally “YOU” – be that elegant, contemporary or just plain fun.

Our studio welcomes you to the elegant world of ballroom dance, where rhythm meets grace. Here, you’ll not only learn the art of dance but also enjoy a multitude of benefits. Ballroom dancing is an exceptional way to improve physical health, enhancing flexibility, balance, and strength.

One 45-minute private lesson for just $30! Come by yourself or with a dance partner (we teach lessons either way)! Start dancing with Fred Astaire Dance Studios of Worcester, and discover your passion for dance.

Our practice parties bring your skills to life in a real-world setting, giving you the confidence to shine at any social event.

Group classes are a fun way to learn new steps and styles while connecting with fellow dance enthusiasts. They foster a supportive community environment and enhance your social skills on and off the dance floor.

Private lessons provide personalized instruction, allowing you to progress at your own pace and focus on areas of interest or improvement.

Ballroom dance lessons offer you a great opportunity to expand your social circle, build connections and engage with people in a low-pressure environment, where there are no expectations. It’s perfect for younger singles who want to step up their dating game, couples looking to reconnect, and for adults interested in discovering something new and inspiring, just for them.

Group activities such as ballroom dance lessons can expand your sense of social “connectedness”, which is beneficial to lowering stress and depression levels. Ballroom dance is similar to the practice of mindful meditation.

Swedish researchers studying teenaged girls with stress, anxiety and depression saw a decrease in anxiety and stress levels among those who took up partner dancing. They also saw marked improvement in mental health and patients reported being happier than those who did not participate in dancing.

Beginner dancers especially will notice that the more you dance, the more flexibility and range of motion your body develops. Increased flexibility will help your dance abilities, decrease joint pain and muscle soreness after exercise, and improve core strength and balance.

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!!

Students can continue to the Silver Program and then all the way to Gold!

Students can continue to the Silver Program and then all the way to Gold!

Our most popular program, which enables students to dance on any size dance floor, to any music, with any partner, and feel comfortable and confident. From there, students can continue to the Silver Program and then all the way to Gold!

Our Beginner and Social Foundation Programs teach newer students the step patterns and techniques to move comfortably around the dance floor. From there, students can progress to the Bronze Trophy Program (our most popular!), which enables students to dance on any size dance floor, to any music, with any partner, and feel comfortable and confident.

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.

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 of Worcester, you’ll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your very first lesson! Learn Faster, Achieve More… Have More FUN! 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!

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!

Get One 45-minute Private Lesson for Just $30! 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!

Custom Gift Package FADS Worcester is excited to offer you the unique opportunity to craft the perfect dance experience with our customizable gift packages! We understand that everyone has different needs and budgets, so we’re thrilled to tailor a package that’s just right for you. Whether you’re looking for a special gift or planning to treat yourself, we’re here to ensure that your dance journey is as unique and memorable as you are. Let us help you create a package that fits your budget and brings the joy of dance into your life. Reach out to us and let’s design your dream dance experience today!

Ignite your passion for rhythm and movement with this exhilarating “Get a Sample of Dancing” Gift Certificate! Whether it’s you or your partner itching to hit the dance floor, this is your golden ticket to begin an unforgettable journey. Dive into the world of dance with us, learning the fundamental steps of the most popular social dances. Get ready to experience the sheer joy and exhilaration of dancing. It’s time to step out of your comfort zone, feel the music, and let your feet do the talking. Let’s dance!

Step up and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of dance with our “Feel the Dance” Gift Certificate! This isn’t just about learning steps; it’s about embracing the rhythm and letting it flow through you. Get ready to build not just muscle memory, but a deep, joyful connection with every move. This is your chance to go beyond the basics and truly feel the pulse of dance in your veins. Grab this opportunity to transform every step into a celebration of movement and joy! Let’s dance with heart and soul!

Yes! 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.

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.

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

Learning to dance is a fun way to relieve the stress of your wedding planning! Our certified Dance Instructors can help you feel at ease and confident on your wedding day. We can choreograph the whole dance with you – even including the wedding party.

Attending an upcoming wedding? Well you better be prepared too! Weddings are all about the love between two people. That’s why they’re a great place for singles to meet each other and for couples to rekindle their love for each other. The magic happens on the dance floor. Come in for our introductory offer and we’ll have you looking as fabulous as the bride and groom!

If you’re looking for something really memorable, we can choreograph a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for the whole wedding party, that’s even set to your favorite music! Extend those special moments with an awesome routine you’ll want to re-live, again and again.

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

Get One 45-minute private lesson and consultation for just $30! We know how important your Wedding Day is, and we want to help make it even more special!

The Best First Dance Wedding Dance Lessons in Worcester. Make Wedding Dance Memories That Will Last a Lifetime… We want to help make it even more special! At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we can customize a Wedding Dance Lesson Program just for you.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we can customize a Wedding Dance Lesson Program just for you, to give you both the confidence and skills to show off your style, elegance – and maybe even a little personality at your wedding reception.

Our studio welcomes you to the elegant world of ballroom dance, where rhythm meets grace. Here, you’ll not only learn the art of dance but also enjoy a multitude of benefits. Ballroom dancing is an exceptional way to improve physical health, enhancing flexibility, balance, and strength. It’s a heart-friendly activity that boosts cardiovascular health and promotes weight management. Mentally, it sharpens the mind and enhances memory skills by requiring you to recall steps, routines, and patterns. Emotionally, ballroom dance is a stress-reliever, offering a fun escape from the daily grind and a chance to express yourself creatively. Socially, our welcoming community provides a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and build lasting friendships.

One 45-minute Private Lessons for just $30! Come by yourself or with a dance partner (we teach lessons either way)! Start dancing with Fred Astaire Dance Studios of Worcester, and discover your passion for dance. Our certified Instructors and unique teaching method help you learn and retain more, faster – regardless of your age, dancing skills or physical abilities. And at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, 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.

Are you ready to dive into the electrifying world of dance? If you’ve ever dreamed of mastering the basic elements of the most popular social dances, now is your chance! Our program is designed to guide you step-by-step through the rhythms and moves that light up dance floors around the world. From the elegant waltz to the upbeat salsa, you’ll learn not just steps, but the spirit of each dance. Embrace this opportunity to unleash your inner dancer, connect with others, and find joy in every beat. Let’s transform your enthusiasm into graceful, confident movements. It’s time to dance your way to unforgettable moments and new friendships!