Fred Astaire Dance Studios - Doctor Phillips

Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Doctor Phillips is part of the Fred Astaire network, which has been dedicated to enriching lives through dance since 1947. The Doctor Phillips location serves Orlando and nearby communities including Windermere, Kissimmee, Lake Buena Vista, Celebration, and Clermont.

The studio teaches the full range of partnership dances: American, Latin-American, International and Exhibition/Theater Arts styles. You can study Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz, Argentine Tango, Bolero, Cha Cha, Rumba, Samba, Mambo, Salsa, Paso Doble, Merengue, East Coast Swing, Jive, Hustle, and West Coast Swing. The Fred Astaire curriculum is documented and constantly reviewed by world-famous dance champions and registered judges to ensure students learn current, proven techniques.

Lessons are offered in three formats: private instruction tailored to your pace, group classes covering technique and various dance styles, and practice parties in a low-pressure social setting where you can apply what you've learned. The studio emphasises that you'll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your first lesson. You do not need a partner—your instructor becomes your partner for private lessons, and group classes and practice sessions provide chances to meet other students.

The studio specialises in wedding dance instruction for couples, parents, and entire wedding parties. Whether you want a simple first dance or a fully choreographed routine, instructors can work with you. The studio recommends starting lessons at least 5–6 months before your wedding, though they accommodate shorter timelines. They also welcome competitive dancers and offer access to Fred Astaire's Regional, Inter-Regional, National and International Pro-Am and Professional dance competitions.

Staff include owner and dancer Tetyana Makarenko, owner and instructor Igor Puzhevich (originally from Belarus, dancing since age 8), manager and instructor Varvara Zhigulskaya (dancing since age 7, finalist in national and international competitions), instructor Dmytro Semenyuk (over 20 years of international experience), and front desk manager and instructor Lyndsay Larson (over 15 years as professional instructor and competitor). Instructors are certified in the Fred Astaire Curriculum, many hold Fine Arts degrees, and several are actively competing award-winning professional dancers.

When you arrive, you'll find a warm, welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere. Your first private lesson will be tailored to your pace and goals. If you join a group class or practice party, you'll learn alongside other students in a supportive setting designed to help you progress quickly and have fun.

The studio is led by owners Tetyana Makarenko and Igor Puzhevich. Teaching staff include Varvara Zhigulskaya (manager and instructor, dancing since age 7, finalist in national and international competitions), Dmytro Semenyuk (over 20 years of international dance experience), and Lyndsay Larson (front desk manager and instructor, over 15 years as professional instructor and competitor). All instructors are certified in the Fred Astaire Curriculum; many hold Fine Arts degrees and are actively competing professional dancers from around the world.

The studio welcomes all ages and abilities; you do not need a partner to start, and instructors emphasise that learning ballroom dance is designed to be fun from your first lesson.