Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware
Ballroom dance lessons in Wilmington, DE—wedding dances, group classes, priva…
Fred Astaire Dance Studios is a premier ballroom dance franchise established in 1947 with the personal endorsement of Fred Astaire himself.
Photo: Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware via Google
Before your first class
Absolutely beginner-friendly; the studio's teaching method is designed around how people naturally learn, and you'll be dancing confidently by the end of your first lesson.
Wear something comfortable that allows you easy movement; you can arrive straight from the office or dress casually—comfort matters more than formality.
30-minute private lesson and consultation for $25 (intro offer); 45-minute private lesson and consultation for $59 (wedding special).
About this studio
Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington-Fairfax teaches ballroom, Latin, smooth, rhythm and swing dancing at 3248 Avenue North Boulevard. The studio is owned and run by Emanuele Pappacena and Francesca Lazzari, both born in Rome and trained from childhood in dance. Emanuele began dancing at age 10; Francesca at age 6. Both are certified Fred Astaire instructors and actively competing professional dancers.
The studio offers private lessons, group classes, and practice parties. New students can start with a 30-minute private lesson and consultation. The teaching method is designed around how people naturally learn partner dance, and the studio uses a progressive trophy system to mark your progress. Lessons are available for absolute beginners through competitive dancers, and the studio works with students of all ages and abilities.
Wedding dance instruction is a focus. The studio creates custom first dances (from simple steps to fully choreographed routines), father/daughter and mother/son dances, and wedding party routines. They recommend starting 5–6 months before your wedding date. You can bring your favourite song, pictures of your venue, and wedding attire to consultations to help shape your dance. A special holiday offer gives one 45-minute private lesson and consultation for $59.
Group classes and dance parties run regularly; walk-ins are welcome at group classes. The studio also hosts showcases, spotlights, community outreach events, coaching sessions, and off-site group outings. Fred Astaire Dance Studios at this location offers access to regional, national, and international pro-am and professional dance competitions.
Reviews highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the skill of the instructors. Francesca and Emanuele are repeatedly praised for clarity, kindness, and the ability to teach complete beginners to dance confidently in a single session. One couple went from zero experience to a 7/10 score in their first lesson. Another couple preparing for their wedding said Francesca's choreography was "fun and stress-free" and they went from nervous to confident by their wedding day. Group class students note the friendly vibe and sense of community.
What to expect
Your first visit
You'll walk into a warm, non-judgmental space focused on making dance fun. Instructors Francesca and Emanuele will meet you at your level, whether you're a complete beginner or experienced dancer, and by the end of your first lesson you'll be practising moves and making progress.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Studio owners Emanuele Pappacena and Francesca Lazzari lead instruction. Both are Rome-born, professionally trained from childhood, certified Fred Astaire instructors, and award-winning competitive dancers. Reviews praise their clarity, warmth, and ability to teach beginners with confidence and care.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Absolutely beginner-friendly; the studio's teaching method is designed around how people naturally learn, and you'll be dancing confidently by the end of your first lesson.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
What to bring
Wear something comfortable that allows you easy movement; you can arrive straight from the office or dress casually—comfort matters more than formality.
Studio history
Fred Astaire Dance Studios as a brand was founded in 1947 with a passion for enriching lives through dance. The Wilmington-Fairfax location is independently owned and operated by Emanuele Pappacena and Francesca Lazzari.
Styles offered
23 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delawarehasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware, 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 Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware teach?
Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware teaches Ballroom, Latin, Smooth, Rhythm, Swing, Argentine Tango and 17 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware located?
Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware is located in Wilmington, DE. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware offer private lessons?
Contact Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware teach kids and adults?
Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware 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 Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware?
The fastest path is to visit Fred Astaire Dance Studio Wilmington Delaware via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.