FREQUENT Q&A'S
How do I get started?
For all new adult students, we offer an Introductory Special for 4 lessons: 2 half-hour private lessons, 1 group class & 1 practice session. You will get introduced to the variety of most popular social dances such Foxtrot, Salsa, Waltz, Swing, Tango, Cha-Cha, Hustle, and Rumba. We also specialize in working with wedding couples on choreography for their First Dance, Father and Daughter Dance, as well as teaching social dancing for the reception! If you have more questions, please fill out the prospective student questionnaire and we will be in touch shortly!
What types of lessons do you offer?
We offer private, group and practice sessions, a unique three way system of teaching developed by Fred Astaire Dance Studios. It is proven to develop the finest ballroom dancers the nation has to offer.
In a private lesson, you will be taught one-on-one by an instructor. Everything is specialy tailored to your need.
A group class focuses on the pattern of the dances and the technical skill. It is the fastest way to learn new steps.
At a Practice Party, you have the chance to go out on the dance floor and try out all the material you learned in your lessons. It is a great way to socialize and meet new friends. Our professional instructors are there to help you around the dance floor.
What types of dances do you offer?
We offer all partnership dances. From Ballroom dances to Lain dances to Swing dances. We also specialise in working with wedding couples on choreography for their First Dance, Father and Daughter Dance, as well as teaching social dancing for the reception!
How soon will I be able to dance?
Under the Fred Astaire System of dance instruction, you will be up on your feet and dancing in your very first lesson. We begin by teaching you the basic steps of the most popular dances so that, within a very short time, you will have the confidence to get your on the dance floor.
I have two left feet. Can you help me?
Fortunately, we have yet to meet anyone with two right feet so yes, we can help :) At Fred Astaire Dance Studio, we remember that everyone was a beginner at some point, even us! Being nervous about your first lesson is only normal and is to be expected. The staff at Fred Astaire Dance Studio is highly qualified and trained at helping you overcome the first time jitters.
Am I too young/old?
Dancing is enjoyed by the people of all ages. Our youngest students are 7 years old and the oldest are well into their eighties. As long as you can walk, you can dance. Since our programs are custom-tailored, you will be learning at a pace comfortable for you. Dancing brings with it a host of health benefits as well. But if you do have any health reservations, please consult your physician first.
Do I need a partner?
No. Here, at Fred Astaire Richmond, we teach both singles and couples. If you come in as one of our single students, your instructor will be your partner for your private lesson. Our practice parties and group classes will provide plenty of opportunity to meet other students with the same interests and goals.
Do you sell dancing shoes?
Yes we do - for both the ladies and the gentlemen.
Will my lessons be at the same time every week?
Not necessarily. In order to accommodate your busy schedule, we attempt to be as flexible as possible. We also recommend that you schedule your lessons a few weeks in advance in order to reserve your preferred times.
Do we have to change partners in group class?
Although rotating partners has been proven to help your dancing, rotating is by no means mandatory. You and your partner are free to stay with each other for the whole class; just be sure to let the instructor know that you would like to stay with your partner so that he/she can accommodate you without confusing the other students.