Fred Astaire Dance Studios

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. Once you discover how much fun ballroom dancing can be, we know you’ll be back for more!

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!

Regardless of whether you’re keen on wedding dance lessons, a new pastime 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!

More Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ Locations Add Para Dance Sport to their Curriculum. Fred Astaire Dance Studios Bloomfield Hills MI Hosts Country’s First Paralympics.org Sanctioned Para Dance Instructor Training.

Our practice sessions take place in the studio and prepare you for dancing socially in the real world. At practice sessions, we dim the lights, supply the music, and have a fabulous time in a party-type atmosphere. Practice sessions allow you to apply material learned in your private lessons and group classes.

Our group classes are designed to be taken in addition to private Lessons, and consist of several students learning from one Dance Instructor. Group classes offer a wide variety of dances and topics to better your technique, physical fitness, and understanding of ballroom dance.

Private Lessons consist of one Student or a couple working with one or two Dance Instructors. Private instruction is tailored to your personal needs. Learning at your own pace is the optimum method of comprehension and that’s what private instruction makes possible.

For those with a competitive edge, we can also help you become a skilled Pro/Am competitor with your Instructor at lots of branded Fred Astaire Regional, Inter-Regional, National and International dance competitions!

We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner. For those with a competitive edge, we can also help you become a skilled Pro/Am competitor with your Instructor at lots of branded Fred Astaire Regional, Inter-Regional, National and International dance competitions!

We offer instruction for all partnership dances from waltz, tango, cha-cha, and salsa, to country western, swing and club dancing. We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner.

We offer instruction for all partnership dances from waltz, tango, cha-cha, and salsa, to country western, swing and club dancing. We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner.

We offer instruction for all partnership dances from waltz, tango, cha-cha, and salsa, to country western, swing and club dancing. We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner.

We offer instruction for all partnership dances from waltz, tango, cha-cha, and salsa, to country western, swing and club dancing. We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner.

We offer instruction for all partnership dances from waltz, tango, cha-cha, and salsa, to country western, swing and club dancing. We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner.

We offer instruction for all partnership dances from waltz, tango, cha-cha, and salsa, to country western, swing and club dancing. We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner.

We offer instruction for all partnership dances from waltz, tango, cha-cha, and salsa, to country western, swing and club dancing. We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner.

Discover the lifelong joy of ballroom dancing at Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Our unique teaching system includes private instruction, group lessons and practice parties, to help you learn as much as possible in as short a time as possible.

Discover why dance is important at every age—boosting brain health, confidence, fitness, and joy—plus how Fred Astaire Dance Studios makes getting started feel easy and fun.

Ageless joy: Ballroom dance lessons for seniors! Improve health, mind, & connections. Unleash your inner superstar at Fred Astaire Dance Studios.

In group lessons, weekly practice parties, regional and national competitions and studio events and outings, you’ll meet a melting pot of people of all ages, with varied cultural and occupational backgrounds. And the best part? Since they all share your passion for dance, these meetings often transition into lasting friendships.

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.

Dance lessons provide an enjoyable escape from your normal daily routine, plus a chance to relax, relieve stress, and concentrate just on yourself. Our students often tell us that even if they’re “not feeling it” when they arrive for a lesson, once they stretch and start dancing, they’re able to forget about the day’s triggers, simply b-r-e-a-t-h-e and let the dance take over.

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 (which has been shown to significantly reduce levels of depression and stress) in that it requires you to fully focus your attention, and be present in the moment.

Among younger dancers, the results can also be significant. 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.

A reputable ballroom dance class will typically begin with a few stretching exercises, to get you prepped to execute dance steps with comfort & ease, and to protect against dance-related injury. Beginner dancers especially will notice that the more you dance, the more flexibility and range of motion your body develops.

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. 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 Willoughby’s teaching methods will result in faster learning rates, higher levels of achievement – and more FUN! Contact us, at Willoughby, Ohio’s Fred Astaire Dance Studios – and be sure to ask about our special Introductory Offer for new students! Check us out on Ridge Road!

The Viennese Waltz is a progressive and turning dance which features some figures that are danced in place. Rise and fall is used in the dance but differently than in other smooth dances. Rise is created through the knees and body. It requires a great deal of control and stamina, due mainly to the tempo of the music. The hallmark charisma and social grace is typical of that period of history.

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.

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.

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. Of the three styles of Rumba that were introduced to the United States, the Bolero-Rumba, the Son-Rumba and the Guaracha-Rumba, only the Bolero-Rumba (shortened to Bolero) and the Son-Rumba (shortened to Rumba) have survived the test of time. The Guaracha-Rumba quickly faded in popularity when the more exciting Mambo was introduced to Americans in the late 1940s. The Rumba is danced in place as the steps are quite compact. Although the Rumba is not danced with the same body contact that is used in smooth-style dances, there may be times when partnership looks and feels more attractive when a closer contact is felt. A smooth and subtle movement of the hips is characteristic of the Rumba.

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.

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.

The Merengue is danced in place to Latin music. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or a way to connect with your partner, want to take your dancing skills to the next level, or just want to improve your social life, the teaching methods of Fred Astaire of Willoughby will result in faster learning rates, higher levels of achievement – and more FUN!

The Mambo can be danced according to the individual dancer’s temperament. Conservative dancers can stay in a closed position, while the more daring can perform steps that break apart and completely separate themselves from each other.

Regional & National Pro-Am and Professional Dance Competitions with over $580,000 in annual Pro and Pro-Am prize money awarded.

The world of ballroom dance instruction continues to grow in popularity. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, you’ll be part of a warm and welcoming community that will inspire you and your students to reach new heights, feel and look confident, and have fun doing it! Our teaching philosophy is simple and straightforward: learning how to ballroom dance should always be fun! You’ll instruct students of all ages and abilities, and help them realize their ballroom dancing goals, in a friendly and inspirational atmosphere.

Since 1947, when Mr. Fred Astaire co-founded our company, Fred Astaire Dance Studios has been a successful worldwide name, identified with dance excellence. Mr. Astaire himself was instrumental in creating the exclusive ballroom dance curriculum and instructional method, to ensure that his dancing techniques would be preserved and passed on to the public. Using these unsurpassed training and certification programs, our mission has always been to share the joy of lifelong dance as a tool to inspire, renew and empower our students, instructors, staff and communities!

For over 75 years, Fred Astaire Dance Studios ® has been the premier brand in ballroom dance instruction. And today, our programs offer Students more fun and options than ever, while continually maintaining the high standards of our proprietary curriculum (developed by Mr. Fred Astaire himself). We provide comprehensive tools and training, plus the ongoing support you need, to create a successful entrepreneurial business.

More Fred Astaire Dance Studios' Locations Add Para Dance Sport to their Curriculum. Fred Astaire Dance Studios Bloomfield Hills MI Host Country's First Paralympics.org Sanctioned Para Dance Instructor Training.

We are going to get you moving and grooving – even more so than usual – when April rolls around. Come on and out join us for West Coast Swing classes.

West Coast Swing (or Western Swing) quickly gained popularity across the U.S. because of its refined style and easy adaptation to contemporary rock music. A regional dance style that is smooth and progressive.

We offer instruction for all partnership dances– from waltz, tango, cha-cha, and salsa, to country western, swing and club dancing. We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner. For those with a competitive edge, we can also help you become a skilled Pro/Am competitor with your Instructor at lots of branded Fred Astaire Regional, Inter-Regional, National and International dance competitions!

Our practice sessions take place in the studio and prepare you for dancing socially in the real world. At practice sessions, we dim the lights, supply the music, and have a fabulous time in a party-type atmosphere.

Our group classes are designed to be taken in addition to private Lessons, and consist of several students learning from one Dance Instructor. Group classes offer a wide variety of dances and topics to better your technique, physical fitness, and understanding of ballroom dance.

Private Lessons consist of one Student or a couple working with one or two Dance Instructors. Private instruction is tailored to your personal needs. Learning at your own pace is the optimum method of comprehension and that’s what private instruction makes possible.

We offer instruction for all partnership dances from waltz, tango, cha-cha, and salsa, to country western, swing and club dancing. We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner.

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.

Take advantage of our special introductory offer just for new students, and take the first step towards realizing your ballroom dance goals. Simply submit the Info Form on this website, and we’ll be in touch with exciting details about our program options and a special discount just for new students (which is sure to get you dancing!).

Our repertoire covers the full range of ballroom dances – American, Latin, International Style, Ballroom Style, even Exhibition and Theater Arts dances, for both social and competitive dancers.

Our proven program of Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties ensures that you learn as much as possible, in the shortest amount of time, with the most retention, and the most FUN.

Our proven program of Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties ensures that you learn as much as possible, in the shortest amount of time, with the most retention, and the most FUN.

Our proven program of Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties ensures that you learn as much as possible, in the shortest amount of time, with the most retention, and the most FUN.

Learning how to ballroom dance is always fun! We work with students of all ages and abilities, and our friendly and inspirational atmosphere will help make your ballroom dance journey a reality.

Learn to dance for your wedding day, or as a new hobby, or a way to connect with your partner. Improve your social life, physical and emotional health, or take your dance skills to the next level.

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!

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 can also be a great way to have fun and relax before the Big Day. With all the decisions and deadlines involved in wedding planning, having this time to enjoy together can help you both de-stress and re-energize – and we promise you’ll have lots of fun doing it.

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

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

Your First Dance is an everlasting expression of your love and commitment – both for you and your new spouse, as well as for all the special guests who are celebrating with you. From a few simple 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.

We customize our Wedding Dance Programs just for you, to give you the confidence and skills you want, to show off your elegance, style – and maybe even a little personality on the dance floor. We’ll help you create a special “First Dance” that’s totally “YOU” – be that elegant, contemporary or just plain fun.

The Fred Astaire Dance Studios® Online Trophy System is available exclusively to enrolled FADS students, and only from Fred Astaire Dance Studios! This exciting new program was created by FADS dance experts, just for our students.

Once you discover how much fun ballroom dancing can be, we know you’ll be back for more! Every Fred Astaire Dance Studio Dance Instructor is a gifted dance educator with a passion for dance.

Whether you’re keen on wedding dance lessons, a new pastime 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.

A Practice Party is an informal social event where students can apply what they've learned in lessons in a relaxed setting. It provides opportunities to dance with different partners, gain confidence, and enjoy the social aspect of ballroom dancing, making it a valuable part of the learning experience.

A Group Class offers a dynamic learning environment where dancers of similar skill levels come together to learn choreography and techniques. It's a great way to practice social dancing skills and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow students, fostering a fun and engaging atmosphere for all participants.

A 45 Minute Private Lesson is a one-on-one instructional session designed to focus on individual dance technique and progress, providing personalized feedback and guidance tailored to your specific needs and goals. This allows for a deeper understanding and faster improvement in your dance journey.

Step-by-step instruction from certified Fred Astaire professionals in a wide variety of ballroom and Latin styles.

Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ exclusive Video On Demand platform designed to keep you dancing, learning, and progressing — wherever life takes you. Whether you want to brush up on steps between lessons, practice at home, or explore new dances at your own pace, this powerful online resource puts expert instruction right at your fingertips.

Step onto the floor and dance your heart out in front of world-class judges — with categories for all levels and styles.

Our National Events are more than just competitions — they’re world-class celebrations of dance, achievement, and community. Held at stunning destinations across the country, these events bring together students, instructors, and professionals for an exciting and inspiring experience like no other.

The series features a lineup of regional and national events throughout the year, each offering a professionally run, high-energy atmosphere.

Our premier competition circuit — a thrilling journey that brings together dancers from across the country (and beyond!) to showcase their skills, celebrate their progress, and experience the excitement of top-tier ballroom dance events.

This exciting new program was created by FADS dance experts, just for our students. It will enhance the private lessons taken with our certified dance instructors and help you truly empower your dancing.

Enhance the private lessons taken with our certified dance instructors, whether they are in-studio or virtual, and help you truly empower your dancing with the Online Trophy System.

learning how to ballroom dance is always fun! Step inside our studio on Ridge Road in the Pine Ridge Plaza, and 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.

Get Your First Private 40 Minute Lesson for only $49! Get Dancing, With This Special Introductory Offer! Simply submit the form on this page and we’ll be in touch right away with a money-saving offer, just for new students.