Fred Astaire Dance Studios
Ballroom, Latin, Swing & more—private lessons, group classes, wedding choreog…
Fred Astaire Dance Studios is a premier ballroom dance franchise established in 1947 with the personal endorsement of Fred Astaire himself.
Photo: Fred Astaire via Google
Before your first class
The studio works with students of all ages and abilities, and you'll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your first lesson.
Wear something comfortable that allows you to move easily; many students arrive straight from work or dress casually.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily.
Special introductory offer available for new students; prices vary as programs are tailored to individual goals (social dancing, wedding, competitive dancing) and budget.
About this studio
Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Pensacola teaches ballroom and Latin partnership dances to students of all ages and abilities. The studio offers a curriculum covering American and International Ballroom styles, with instruction in Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz, Argentine Tango, Bolero, Cha Cha, Rumba, Samba, Mambo, Merengue, Paso Doble, Salsa, Jive, East Coast Swing, Hustle, and West Coast Swing.
The teaching approach combines private lessons, group classes, and practice parties. Private lessons are tailored to individual needs and scheduled by appointment during business hours. Group classes run throughout the week in afternoon and evening slots, covering various dances and technique levels. Practice sessions take place in a party-type atmosphere with dimmed lighting and music, giving you a chance to apply what you've learned without pressure and to meet other students.
The studio has five certified instructors: Maria Middleton, who has danced since age 5 and is described as a versatile dancer; Andre Eimers, who started dancing with Fred Astaire in 2016 and trained in jazz and ballroom; Marina Kuklina, who began dancing at age 4 and was born and raised in Russia; Georgii Ilinykh, born in Chelyabinsk, Russia, who started dancing at age 5; and Marisol Aldana, originally from Tampico in the Gulf of Mexico. All instructors are certified in the Fred Astaire curriculum and many have Fine Arts degrees and are actively competing, award-winning professional dancers.
Wedding dance programs are a core offering. The studio customizes instruction for couples seeking anything from simple first-dance steps to fully choreographed routines. They can also create wedding party dances and Father/Daughter or Mother/Son dances. The studio recommends starting lessons at least five to six months before the wedding. You're encouraged to bring favourite songs, venue pictures, wedding attire photos, and dance video examples to your free consultation.
The studio welcomes both singles and couples. If you arrive without a partner, your instructor becomes your partner for private lessons, and group classes and practice sessions provide opportunities to meet other students. Flexible scheduling is available, with group class times varying by dance type and level. The studio operates an online dance store stocked with dozens of dance-related items. Competitive dancers can participate in Fred Astaire regional, inter-regional, national, and international Pro-Am and amateur competitions.
What to expect
Your first visit
You'll discover a warm, welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere from the moment you step in. On your first lesson you'll be on your way to confident dancing. The studio teaches through private instruction, group lessons, and practice parties designed to help you learn as much as possible in the shortest time.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Five certified instructors teach at the Pensacola studio: Maria Middleton (dancing since age 5), Andre Eimers (trained in jazz and ballroom), Marina Kuklina (began at age 4, trained in Russia), Georgii Ilinykh (born in Chelyabinsk, started at age 5), and Marisol Aldana (from Tampico, Mexico). All are certified in the Fred Astaire curriculum; many hold Fine Arts degrees and are actively competing professional dancers.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
The studio works with students of all ages and abilities, and you'll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your first lesson.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
Dress code
Wear something comfortable that allows you to move easily; many students arrive straight from work or dress casually.
What to bring
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily. For shoes, the studio suggests leather-sole shoes for gentlemen and a shoe with a back (similar to a pump) for ladies.
Studio history
Fred Astaire Dance Studios was founded in 1947 with a passion for enriching lives physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially through the transforming power of dance. The teaching method was developed by Fred Astaire himself and remains unique to the organisation.
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, Waltz 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 Pensacola, FL. 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.