Fred Astaire Dance Studios

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.

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.

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.

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 is an elegant and glamorous dance with roots in Ragtime, developed in the 1920s in New York. It is a progressive and turning dance moving along the Line of Dance, utilizing Walks and Chasse movements with Rise and Fall, Sway and Bounce action.

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.

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. Spins and turns are quite popular with Mambo dancers.

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.

Hustle is a fast, smooth dance, with the lady spinning almost constantly, while her partner draws her close and sends her away. Free rhythmic interpretation is characteristic of this dance.

The Foxtrot dance step, named after Harry Fox, originated around 1912 during the ragtime era. It marked a shift towards closer partner dancing and ad-libbed movements to new music, evolving into a smoother, more individualized style by 1917. The International style, implemented around 1960, differs from the American style by maintaining a normal dance hold throughout, while the American style offers more freedom. Figures are designed for larger ballrooms but can be adapted for smaller spaces.

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 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 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 – Exton.

There are many legends and stories about the origins and development of tango. 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!

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. Wedding Dance lessons are also a great way to have fun and relax before the Big Day. Think of it as “date nights”!

Wedding dance lessons are a great way to have fun and relax before the 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 choreograph a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for the whole wedding party, that’s set to your favorite music! Extend those special wedding day moments with an awesome routine you’ll want to re-live, again and again.

A memorable Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dance is a wonderful 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 wedding dance 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. 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.

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

Once you discover how much fun ballroom dancing can be, we know you’ll be back for more! Our instructors will be able to help you achieve your goals. Whether you want to become a competitive dancer or just dance to have fun, our instructors will guide you in the right direction.

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.

Fred Astaire Studio Exton offers classes for your wedding dances that will make you look awesome. Talk with us to get started today and we will work with you!

learning how to ballroom dance is always fun! Step inside our Main Street Shopping Mall studio, 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.

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.

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.

Partner dancing can also decrease loneliness among all age groups, because it’s a goal-oriented social activity that brings like-minded people together. 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.

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!!

Our most popular! Bronze Trophy Program 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. 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.

Originally inspired by Fred Astaire’s superb style of dancing, Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ ballroom dance curriculum covers the full range of American, Latin-American, International Style, Exhibition/Theater Arts dances and more.

Originally inspired by Fred Astaire’s superb style of dancing, Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ ballroom dance curriculum covers the full range of American, Latin-American, International Style, Exhibition/Theater Arts dances and more.

Originally inspired by Fred Astaire’s superb style of dancing, Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ ballroom dance curriculum covers the full range of American, Latin-American, International Style, Exhibition/Theater Arts dances and more.

Originally inspired by Fred Astaire’s superb style of dancing, Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ ballroom dance curriculum covers the full range of American, Latin-American, International Style, Exhibition/Theater Arts dances and more.

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 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 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 a classic Waltz or Foxtrot or sultry Tango, to a fun & lively Country Western Two-Step and more, our certified Dance Instructors can help!

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. We can include your wedding party, for a YouTube-worthy routine. And including your parents (or special friends or family members who will be standing in that traditional role) in your Wedding Dance can be a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation. It’s totally up to you!

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 the 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! Contact us today, and give everyone at your wedding a dance to remember.

A memorable Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dance is a wonderful 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 wedding dance is a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation. We’d recommend also scheduling a few wedding dance lessons for them, too.

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

Dance lesson programs are designed to fit each student’s specific interests & goals, including competitive dancing. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we will tailor programs to meet your individual goals and budget.

Dance lesson programs are designed to fit each student’s specific interests & goals, including social dancing. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we will tailor programs to meet your individual goals and budget.

Fred Astaire Studio Exton offers classes for your wedding dances that will make you look awesome. Talk with us to get started today and we will work with you to create a lasting memory from your wedding.

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!

This gift certificate includes one group class or one social party for new students, suitable for singles or couples.

This gift certificate includes five 45-minute private lessons for new students, suitable for singles or couples.

This gift certificate includes one 30-minute introductory lesson for new students, suitable for singles or couples.

This gift certificate includes one group class or one social party for new students, suitable for singles or couples.

This gift certificate includes three 45-minute private lessons for new students, suitable for singles or couples.

This gift certificate includes two 45-minute private lessons for new students, suitable for singles or couples.

This gift certificate includes one 45-minute private lesson for new students, suitable for singles or couples.

Learn how to ballroom dance in a fun, welcoming, and non-judgmental community. Our unique teaching method ensures faster learning.

Take your existing dancing skills to a higher level with our advanced instruction and dedicated practice sessions.

Enhance your social life by learning to dance and meeting new people. Our studio offers a welcoming environment for all.

Strengthen your bond with your partner through the joy of dance. It's a perfect activity for couples to enjoy together.

Engage in a fun and exciting way to stay active and improve your physical fitness. Dancing is a fantastic cardiovascular workout.

Discover a new hobby that brings joy and fulfillment into your life. Dancing is a wonderful way to explore your creative side.

Learn romantic wedding dances to make your special day even more memorable. Our expert instructors will guide you every step of the way.