Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Kansas City North teaches ballroom, Latin, smooth, rhythm and swing dance styles. Located at 4131 N Mulberry Dr Suite 100 inside The Village at Briarcliff shopping center, the studio offers private lessons, group classes and practice parties for adults of all abilities.

The instructors are certified professionals. The teaching philosophy centres on making learning fun and efficient. The studio uses a progressive system of instruction and an online trophy system to track progress. Instructors recommend scheduling lessons close together, especially at the start, to minimise forgetting and accelerate progress. You can combine private lessons with group classes and practice sessions for the fastest learning.

Wedding dance is a major offering. The studio provides in-person bridal consultations and custom choreography for first dances, mother-son, father-daughter dances, and wedding party routines. A sample lesson and consultation costs $50. The studio recommends starting lessons 5–6 months before the wedding. Wedding couples can choose anything from simple steps to fully choreographed routines, and the studio can include parents and wedding parties.

For new students, a 30-minute intro lesson is $50. A popular beginner package includes one intro lesson, four personal lessons, 30 days of beginner group classes and dance parties, and online trophy system access for $423 (listed as saving $50 instantly). The studio also offers gift certificates and runs local events including guest parties, showcases, spotlights and community outreach events. Branded regional, national and international pro-am and professional dance competitions are available for those wanting to compete.

The studio atmosphere is described by students as warm, welcoming, non-judgmental and joyful. Staff include owners Tavier and Amy Haarer (both professional dance instructors), plus professional dance instructors Hannah, Michell, Riah, and front desk staff Bell.

You'll be greeted at the door and shown around the studio. Your instructor will guide you through simple steps at your own pace. Most students start with zero dance experience, so there's no pressure to be perfect. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes you can move in. After booking, the team will call to schedule a convenient time.

The studio is owned and operated by Tavier and Amy Haarer, both professional dance instructors. Additional instructors include Hannah, Michell, and Riah, all certified professional dance instructors. Many instructors have Fine Arts degrees and are actively competing, award-winning professional dancers who have completed rigorous Fred Astaire Curriculum certification.

Completely beginner friendly; most students start with zero dance experience and no partner is needed for the intro lesson.