Bayou Dance Club

Bayou Dance Club opened its doors in 1998 and has spent over two decades helping students of all ages discover the joy of partner dancing. The studio is known as an "all generation" studio, welcoming students from age 6 to 95, with the majority of students being middle-aged. Many have stayed for years—some have danced with the studio since its first day, and couples who married after learning their first dance here continue dancing together on anniversaries.

The studio teaches partnership dances in both American and International styles: the smooth dances (waltz, tango, foxtrot) and Latin dances (rumba, cha cha, salsa), as well as East and West Coast Swing and other minor dances. Instruction is available through private lessons, group classes, and customised wedding packages. The team helps you progress at your own pace, whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine existing skills. Students can take lessons as few or as many times a week as their schedule allows, with a general recommendation of at least twice weekly for faster progress.

Bayou Dance Club runs in-house showcases and sends students to competitions throughout the United States, giving those who wish to compete the opportunity to do so. The studio also hosts regular weekly parties where students can practise their steps and meet fellow dancers. Owned and operated by Mario Drobny (owner and instructor) and Letizia Di Carlo (owner and office manager), the team includes instructors Sarah Choquette, Dylan Jenkins, and Alessio Miraglia. Reviews consistently highlight the friendly, welcoming atmosphere and the calibre of instruction.

The studio operates from two spacious ballrooms at 6541 102nd Ave N, Pinellas Park. Hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 11:00 am–9:00 pm; Tuesday and Friday 11:00 am–10:00 pm; Saturday 9:00 am–3:00 pm. It serves residents across the Tampa Bay area, including Clearwater, Largo, St. Petersburg, Seminole, Pinellas Park, Tampa, Safety Harbor, and Belleair.

Your first lesson is free and no-obligation. An instructor will work with you one-on-one to understand your goals, evaluate your potential, and recommend a programme that suits your needs. No partner is required if you're starting alone. As you progress, you'll be invited to group classes and weekly parties to practise with other students.

The studio is led by owner and instructor Mario Drobny and owner and office manager Letizia Di Carlo. Teaching staff includes instructors Sarah Choquette, Dylan Jenkins, and Alessio Miraglia. Reviews praise the instructors as kind, funny, helpful, professional, and well-trained.

Beginners are welcome; instructors break patterns into simple steps and teach you everything necessary to look great on the dance floor, with no prior dance experience required.