Blue Suede Ballroom Dance Studio

Blue Suede Ballroom Dance Studio has been teaching ballroom and Latin dance in the Memphis area since 2008. The studio is run by Andriy, the founder and owner, who began dancing at age 10 in Kiev, Ukraine, studying ballroom, jazz and ballet before focusing on ballroom as his primary passion. Andriy competed professionally in Ukraine and internationally, placing in finals of numerous prestigious competitions. He has performed on TV and stage shows and charity events, and worked as a choreographer and ballroom dance coach. After moving to the United States in 1999, he taught in Upper Montclair, New Jersey, then joined a national chain dance studio in Memphis from 2000 to 2006, where he won regional and national Top Teacher Awards. He also created a special ballroom program for the University of Memphis.

The studio teaches four major styles: American Rhythm, American Smooth, International Latin and International Standard. They offer private lessons, group classes at Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced levels, dance parties, workshops and special events. Wedding dance lessons are a key offering — the studio helps couples choreograph first dances and father-daughter dances, recommending couples start lessons 3 to 6 months before their wedding.

Group classes focus on learning dance steps and patterns through repetition to build muscle memory. Advanced classes emphasise technique and styling. Private lessons are available by appointment, tailored to your schedule. The studio also runs private group classes for birthdays, anniversaries and team outings, accommodating groups from 2 to 60 people. Dance parties provide a relaxed social atmosphere to practise steps and improve floorcraft and partnering skills.

Blue Suede Ballroom offers classes for children aged 7 and up, grouped by age, with boys and girls welcome. The studio emphasises that ballroom dancing helps children develop self-esteem, respect, coordination and social skills. Parents are welcome to watch classes from the ballroom. The studio also accommodates school cotillion programs and ministry group functions, highlighting the physical, psychological and social benefits of dance.

Located in Forest Hill Shopping Center at the intersection of Forest Hill, Irene and Winchester on the border of Germantown and Memphis, the studio serves the wider area including Collierville, Olive Branch, MS, Cordova and Downtown Memphis. The studio is described as having a family atmosphere with knowledgeable instructors and passionate students.

When you visit, you'll work with experienced instructors in a family-oriented studio environment. Private lessons are tailored to your goals and schedule, while group classes let you learn with other students at your level and practise with different partners. The studio can arrange a calendar of classes and welcomes first-time visitors to call and discuss your dance aspirations.

Andriy, the founder and owner, teaches advanced level group classes and private lessons. He began dancing in Kiev, Ukraine at age 10 and competed professionally before moving to the US in 1999. He taught in New Jersey and Memphis, winning regional and national Top Teacher Awards during his time at a national chain studio. The studio notes it is fortunate to have wonderful, passionate, enthusiastic and very experienced dance teachers.

The studio works with beginners starting from the very basics, with group classes at Beginner level and private lessons tailored to your level and pace.