Dancing on the Suncoast
Ballroom, Latin and Swing dance lessons in Lakewood Ranch since 2001
Dancing on the Suncoast has taught ballroom, Latin, and Swing dance in the Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Bradenton areas since 2001.
Photo: Dancing on the Suncoast via Google
Before your first class
Beginners are welcome; the studio focuses on moving past the "mechanical" stage quickly so you start enjoying dancing naturally.
About this studio
Dancing on the Suncoast has taught ballroom, Latin, and Swing dance in the Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Bradenton areas since 2001. The studio is located in San Marco Plaza shopping suites at 8215 Natures Way Suite 101, just north of University Parkway. Founder Patrick Johnson, a former competitive dancer who won ballroom dance competitions around the world, established the studio with his dance champion wife Cyntia. As of November 2023, Octavian Para is the sole owner, with Patrick and Cyntia still involved in a smaller capacity.
The studio teaches Salsa, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Waltz, Rumba, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha Cha, and more, specializing in both American and International styles. Private lessons are 45 minutes one-on-one with an instructor. The studio recommends at least 5 to 10 private lessons to get good at couple dancing, and scheduling the first couple of lessons within the same week for best results. You can come alone or with a partner for the same price.
Group classes are held two to three times a week, each 40–45 minutes long, ranging from beginner to advanced and open to all current students. These are designed to complement private lessons and help you learn leading and following, variety of dances, and technique. Classes usually run throughout the week in the evenings, with special group classes occasionally on weekends.
The studio hosts monthly social parties where students practice their moves in a "night club" ambiance. Everyone dances with each other, and instructors are available to help. Wedding choreography services cover first dances, father-and-bride dances, mother-and-groom dances, and wedding party routines, all tailored to your needs and learning style. The studio also works with competitive dancers, offering demonstrations at social parties, showcases, and mini-matches for those aiming for higher levels in ballroom and Latin competitions. The studio operates Monday–Friday 12:00–9:00pm, with Saturday and Sunday by appointment.
What to expect
Your first visit
Expert instruction in a relaxed, private atmosphere. Your first lesson focuses on learning steps and understanding how to lead or follow. Instructors break down movements into manageable pieces using both contemporary and older music. The studio emphasises a friendly, welcoming environment with no high-pressure sales or confusing contracts.
Instructors
Who teaches here
The studio employs nationally recognized dance instructors, including Caesar and Zavier and Alice, who are noted for taking time to explain steps clearly and for their generosity and warmth.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Beginners are welcome; the studio focuses on moving past the "mechanical" stage quickly so you start enjoying dancing naturally. Group classes range from beginner to advanced and you can learn at your own pace.
Studio history
Founded in 2001 by Patrick Johnson and his wife Cyntia, both accomplished dancers. Patrick began training as a competitive dancer at age 4 and competed in ballroom dance competitions worldwide before eventually serving as Dance Board Chairman of a dance affiliation. He owned multiple successful studios before establishing Dancing on the Suncoast, which he considers the best. Octavian Para became sole owner in November 2023.
Styles offered
11 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Dancing on the Suncoasthasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Dancing on the Suncoast, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about Dancing on the Suncoast
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Dancing on the Suncoast teach?
Dancing on the Suncoast teaches Ballroom, Latin, Swing, Salsa, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing and 5 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Dancing on the Suncoast located?
Dancing on the Suncoast is located in Lakewood Ranch, FL. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Dancing on the Suncoast offer private lessons?
Contact Dancing on the Suncoast directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Dancing on the Suncoast teach kids and adults?
Dancing on the Suncoast welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at Dancing on the Suncoast?
The fastest path is to visit Dancing on the Suncoast via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.