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.

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

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

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

We can help you make your Wedding Day even more special! Whether it be a simple First Dance, to “YouTube-worthy” routines for the entire wedding party, our instructors are ready to help make your dreams a reality.

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.

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

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!!

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. 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 Madison 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. 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. 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 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.

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. The popularity of the Mambo was almost entirely the work of Cuban bandleader Perez Prado. During the early 1930s, Latin style dance bands were coming increasingly popular with American audiences and filling the airwaves with Rumbas, Sambas and Tangos. Then, in the early ’50s, Prado recorded the song, “Mambo Jambo,” and the fun was on. 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. Ready to take your first step towards a new and exciting lifestyle? Contact us, at Madison West Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Inside our doors, you’ll discover a warm and friendly atmosphere that will inspire you to reach new heights, and have lots of fun doing it!

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.

A dance that evolved in the 1970s, initially in discotheques, with freestyle dancing and a prerequisite dress code. It became a touch dance with intricate turn patterns and multiple turns, evolving into forms like Rope Hustle or Latin Hustle. It incorporates traveling movements and pivots, borrowing from ballroom, swing, and Latin dances, and is danced to contemporary pop music with the lady spinning almost constantly.

The Foxtrot dance step was named after vaudeville dancer and comedian Harry Fox. This dance marked a new phase of ballroom dancing where partners danced much closer together and ad-libbed to new and exhilarating music. By 1917, the accent has been placed on smoother dancing and individualized expression.

Eastern Swing or East Coast Swing (or just Swing), evolved from the Lindy Hop and is perhaps the most famous American folk dance. The best known forms of Swing include the Charleston, Black Bottom, and Shag. 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 (with each being danced to the same one-two-three triple step).

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 in Madison. We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor!

Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or a way to connect with your partner, want to improve your social life, or want to take your dancing skills to the next level, Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Madison West will have you dancing confidently – and having FUN from your very first lesson! Contact us today.

Country Western Two-Step is a fun and lively partner dance style that can be incorporated into your Wedding Dance choreography. Our certified Dance Instructors can help you learn this energetic dance.

Tango is a sultry and passionate ballroom dance style that can be incorporated into your Wedding Dance choreography. Our certified Dance Instructors can help you master this dramatic dance.

Foxtrot is a smooth and elegant ballroom dance style that can be incorporated into your Wedding Dance choreography. Our certified Dance Instructors can help you learn this graceful dance.

Waltz is a classic ballroom dance style that can be incorporated into your Wedding Dance choreography. Our certified Dance Instructors can help you learn this elegant dance.

Wedding dance lessons are a great way to have fun and relax before your big day. Enjoy this time together, that’s just for you, which can help you both de-stress and re-energize. You’ll have lots of fun doing it.

Get the whole wedding party involved with a choreographed dance for everyone in your party, set to your favorite music. Extend those special wedding day moments and keep the memories coming with an awesome routine.

A memorable Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dance is a wonderful compliment to your special day. Including your parents 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. Qualified instructors will assist in teaching you a few basic steps or choreographing a full dance to your special song to wow the crowd.

Customize your wedding dance to fit your interests, meet your dance needs, and give you, your family, and bridal party the confidence and skill to enjoy a variety of dances. Create dance memories you’ll never forget.

Our proprietary teaching method that not only teaches the mechanics of partner dancing, but also presents the building blocks of how people absorb and retain information.

Learn 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.

Check out this month’s schedule of Group Classes, Practice Parties and Special Events at our Studio. Come with a dance partner or by yourself. If you’d like more information, or to join us, just give us a call!

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 (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.

Ballroom 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.

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.

Students can progress to the Gold Program after completing the Silver Program, reaching the highest level of skill and confidence.

Students can continue to the Silver Program after completing the Bronze Trophy Program. This program builds upon existing skills and confidence.

Our most popular! This program enables students to dance on any size dance floor, to any music, with any partner, and feel comfortable and confident. Students can progress from the Beginner and Social Foundation Programs.

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.

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 of Madison 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 of Madison 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 of Madison 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 of Madison ballroom dance curriculum covers the full range of American, Latin-American, International Style, Exhibition/Theater Arts dances and more.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Looking for something really memorable? Interesting in getting the whole wedding party involved? Bridesmaids? Groomsmen? We can choreograph a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for everyone in your party, that’s set to your favorite music!

A memorable Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dance is a wonderful compliment to your special day. 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. In a short time, our qualified instructors will assist in teaching you a few basic steps or choreographing a full dance to “your special song.”

Customize our Wedding Dance Programs just for you, to fit your interests, meet your dance needs, and give you, your family, and bridal party the confidence and skill to enjoy a variety of dances. Join us today and create dance memories you’ll never forget!

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!

Enjoy 2 beginner private dance lessons, to be used right here at our studio location, along with 2 – $75 gift certificates, for enjoying a delicious meal out at this extravagant dinner location!

learning how to ballroom dance is always fun! Step inside, 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.