Fred Astaire Dance Studios
Ballroom and Latin dance lessons in West Loop. Wedding choreography, private…
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 Studios via Google
Before your first class
The studio specializes in teaching brand new students, giving them confidence, rhythm, and a love for dance; no prior experience or partner is required.
$50 for one private introductory lesson
About this studio
Fred Astaire Dance Studios Chicago West Loop is located at 943 W Randolph Street, Unit 3E, in Chicago's West Loop neighbourhood. The studio is owned by Jesse DeSoto, a United States American Rhythm Finalist and former Dancing with the Stars professional. Since 1947, Fred Astaire Dance Studios has focused on enriching lives through ballroom dance—physically, mentally, emotionally and socially.
The studio teaches a comprehensive range of partnership dances across both American and International Ballroom styles. Students can learn Argentine Tango, Bolero, Cha Cha, East Coast Swing, Foxtrot, Hustle, Jive, Mambo, Merengue, Paso Doble, Quickstep, Rumba, Salsa, Samba, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Waltz, and West Coast Swing. Instruction covers social dancing, wedding choreography, and competitive training for those with a competitive edge.
Lessons are available by appointment and include private lessons, group classes, and practice parties. The teaching method is described as proven and proprietary to Fred Astaire, designed to help students learn faster and with greater retention. The studio specializes in working with brand new students and those without partners; single students are paired with certified professional instructors. Both couples and singles are welcome.
Wedding dance programmes are customized and can range from teaching a few basic steps for a first dance to choreographing a full routine for the wedding party. The studio recommends scheduling lessons at least five to six months before a wedding. Staff members include Stephanie (Studio Director), Andre (Training Director & Professional Instructor), Michelle (Professional Instructor, a Brazilian native with over 20 years of experience), Cameron (Professional Instructor), and Tina (Front Desk Manager).
The studio serves students from West Loop, Fulton Market District, River West, South Loop, Streeterville, Near West Side, Near North Side, Gold Coast, The Loop, and River North. Business hours are Monday–Friday 1:00 PM–9:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday are closed but available by appointment. Fred Astaire offers branded Regional, Inter-Regional, and National Amateur and Pro-Am dance competitions, giving students opportunities to compete and travel. The studio also operates an online dance store with dance-related items.
What to expect
Your first visit
Your first session includes a 30-minute private lesson with a certified professional instructor where you'll learn basic dance steps, discuss your goals, and assess your strengths. Afterwards, you can practise new skills in a group class or at one of the studio's social dance parties. Whether you arrive alone or with a partner, the environment is designed to be welcoming and supportive.
Instructors
Who teaches here
The studio team includes Stephanie (Studio Director), Andre (Training Director & Professional Instructor), Michelle (Professional Instructor, a Brazilian native with over 20 years of experience), and Cameron (Professional Instructor). Many instructors hold Fine Arts degrees, are actively competing professional dancers, and are certified in the Fred Astaire Curriculum. The studio is owned by Jesse DeSoto, a United States American Rhythm Finalist and former Dancing with the Stars professional.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
The studio specializes in teaching brand new students, giving them confidence, rhythm, and a love for dance; no prior experience or partner is required.
Studio history
Fred Astaire Dance Studios has been helping to enrich lives through ballroom dance since 1947. The Chicago West Loop location is owned by Jesse DeSoto, a United States American Rhythm Finalist and former Dancing with the Stars professional.
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 Studioshasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Fred Astaire Dance Studios, 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 Studios
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Fred Astaire Dance Studios teach?
Fred Astaire Dance Studios 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 Studios located?
Fred Astaire Dance Studios is located in Chicago, IL. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Fred Astaire Dance Studios offer private lessons?
Contact Fred Astaire Dance Studios directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Fred Astaire Dance Studios teach kids and adults?
Fred Astaire Dance Studios 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 Studios?
The fastest path is to visit Fred Astaire Dance Studios via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.