Empire Swing
Brisbane's longest-running swing dance school. Classes, socials & workshops.
A swing dance studio offering instruction in East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, and related swing styles.
Before your first class
Beginner classes start at 6:45pm on Mondays and Wednesdays; you don't need a partner or prior experience.
For social nights, dress to express and impress according to the theme of the evening.
Comfortable clothes that allow free movement and shoes that are comfortable, won't slip off and move easily on the floor.
Street parking available in the surrounding area of 132 La Trobe Terrace.
About this studio
Empire Swing is Brisbane's longest-running swing dance school, based in Paddington. They teach vintage dance styles from the 1920s, 30s and 40s: Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa and Blues, plus authentic solo jazz. The school welcomes all ages, experience levels, genders, ethnicities and abilities—you don't need a partner or any prior dance experience to start.
Regular weekly classes run Mondays and Wednesdays at the BrisWest Centre on 132 La Trobe Terrace. Beginner classes start at 6:45pm and progress to more advanced levels at 8:00pm. They design their beginner courses so you'll be dancing confidently on your first night and building skills each week. An 8-week beginner block introduces the basics systematically, and you can also drop in for single classes.
Beyond classes, Empire Swing runs Swing Shack, a monthly social dance party held in Newmarket. Swing Shack opens with an absolute beginners lesson at 6:45pm, followed by social dancing to live DJ'd swing music until 10pm. Theme nights include Gatsby Glam, Spring Fling, Royal Shack, Day At the Races, and Festive Shack. This is where you can practice what you've learned in a fun, social setting.
The school also offers workshops, private lessons, and special services including help with wedding dances and performances at events. They run a weekly Swing Buzz newsletter with dance clips and music to keep you connected between sessions.
What to expect
Your first visit
Come to your first class with comfortable, moveable clothes and shoes that won't slip. You'll learn basic swings steps from the start—most people dance on the very first night. Classes rotate through different styles and difficulty levels, with absolute beginners welcome every session.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Beginner classes start at 6:45pm on Mondays and Wednesdays; you don't need a partner or prior experience.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
Dress code
For social nights, dress to express and impress according to the theme of the evening.
What to bring
Comfortable clothes that allow free movement and shoes that are comfortable, won't slip off and move easily on the floor. High heels are not recommended when starting out.
Studio history
Empire Swing is Brisbane's longest-running swing dance school, specialising in teaching vintage dance styles inspired by the big bands and music halls of the 1920s, 30s and 40s.
Styles offered
8 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Empire Swinghasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Empire Swing, 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 Empire Swing
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Empire Swing teach?
Empire Swing teaches Swing, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa and 2 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Empire Swing located?
Empire Swing is located in Paddington, QLD. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Empire Swing offer private lessons?
Contact Empire Swing directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Empire Swing teach kids and adults?
Empire Swing 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 Empire Swing?
The fastest path is to visit Empire Swing via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.
Is there parking at Empire Swing?
Street parking available in the surrounding area of 132 La Trobe Terrace.