swing dancersHow long does it take to learn to dance?
Learning to dance is a lot like learning tennis. If you want to volley with a friend, you take a few lessons. If you want to play competitive tennis, you spend your life learning. It's the same with dance. If you want to be able to get on a dance floor for an evening and have an enjoyable time dancing with fun and useful basic steps, then a basic course will get you started. The more you want to learn and the more proficient you want to become, the more you need to study and practice.

How can I practice what I learn?
We offer lots of opportunities to practice what you're working on in class. We have practice sessions every weeknight for all levels of dancers. We play taped music in one of our studios and students can practice with each other. Our staff is on hand to dance and answer questions. The practice sessions are free to enrolled students.

What should I wear for classses at your studio?
We recommend comfortable, casual clothing. Many people come to classes directly from work, and work clothes are fine. We advise against straight skirts because they're too hard to move in. Shoes should be comfortable to move in and fit securely.

Do I need a partner?
Ninety-five percent of our students come to class without partners. We keep changing partners in the classes so everyone gets a chance to dance. If you attend with a partner and want to dance only with each other, you have that option.

What if I miss a class?
We know that our students lead very busy lives, so we try to accommodate them by offering several ways to make up a class. Speak to our Registrar for the specifics. Call us at (212) 431-1825.


Where is your studio located?

We are located in Manhattan's Noho at 439 Lafayette Street, 2nd floor (at Astor Place), NYC 10003. The nearest subway stops are the #6 train to Astor Place, or the N/R train to 8th Street. View the map

How large are the classes?
The classes vary in enrollment from a minimum of 5 people to as many as 25. It all depends on the month's enrollment. We do limit enrollment at 25, so it's best to register early to get into the class you want.

Should I take group classes or private lessons?
This really depends on you. Some people are more comfortable learning in a group, some in a one-on-one situation. Some people like the class pace, some prefer a faster or slower pace in privates. Some people have no time limit for learning and want to take classes, some people have to learn a Fox Trot by next week to attend a wedding and would be better off with private lessons.