Fred Astaire Dance Studios
Ballroom, Latin, Swing & more. Wedding dances, social dancing, competition tr…
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
Absolutely designed for beginners; the studio works with students of all ages and abilities, and promises you'll be on your way to confident dancing after your first lesson.
Wear something comfortable that allows you to move easily; students arriving straight from the office or dressed casually are both welcome.
Comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily, and comfortable shoes.
Every Fred Astaire Dance Studio offers a special introductory offer for new students; prices vary beyond that as programs are designed to fit each student's specific interests and goals.
About this studio
Fred Astaire Dance Studios in DC Palisades teaches ballroom and Latin partner dances at 5185 MacArthur Blvd NW, Suite 250. The studio offers instruction across a full range of styles: Waltz, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Tango, Argentine Tango, Bolero, Rumba, Cha Cha, Mambo, Salsa, Merengue, Paso Doble, Samba, East Coast Swing, Jive, Hustle, and West Coast Swing. Classes and private lessons serve all ages and abilities, from absolute beginners to competitive dancers.
The teaching approach combines private lessons, group classes, and practice parties. The studio's curriculum is based on Fred Astaire's original teaching method, developed to help students learn dance steps in the way people naturally learn. Dance Instructors are certified in this curriculum and many are actively competing, award-winning professional dancers with Fine Arts degrees from around the world. Co-owners Daniele Fulvi and Veronica Criscione lead the studio; both are internationally recognized professional ballroom dancers, coaches, and choreographers.
Wedding dance instruction is a major focus. The studio customises programs for couples, offering everything from simple first-dance steps to fully choreographed routines. They also teach Father/Daughter, Mother/Son, and wedding party dances. The studio recommends starting lessons at least 5–6 months before a wedding, or at minimum one month before the ceremony. Couples can bring their own music, venue photos, and wedding attire to consultations to shape the dance to their style.
Beyond weddings, the studio runs local events including Guest Parties, Showcases, Spotlights, Community Outreach Events, and coaching sessions. For competitive dancers, Fred Astaire offers access to Regional, National, and International Pro-Am and Professional Dance Competitions. An online trophy system tracks student progress.
New students receive an introductory offer and can attend lessons alone or with a partner—the studio pairs solo students with instructors for private lessons and matches them with other students in group classes and practice sessions. The studio emphasises a welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere and has earned a 5.0 Google rating across 37 reviews.
What to expect
Your first visit
You'll step into a warm, non-judgmental environment designed to make learning fun from day one. New students complete an introductory form and meet with staff to discuss dance goals. Private lessons pair you with a certified instructor (or your partner, if you bring one). Group classes and practice parties let you apply what you've learned with fellow students. You'll progress through the Fred Astaire curriculum at your own pace.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Daniele Fulvi (Co-Owner & Dance Director) and Veronica Criscione (Co-Owner & Dance Director) lead the studio. Both are internationally recognised professional ballroom dancers, coaches, and choreographers. The studio's instructors are certified in the Fred Astaire Curriculum; many have Fine Arts degrees and are actively competing, award-winning professional dancers from around the world.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Absolutely designed for beginners; the studio works with students of all ages and abilities, and promises you'll be on your way to confident dancing after your first lesson.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
Dress code
Wear something comfortable that allows you to move easily; students arriving straight from the office or dressed casually are both welcome.
What to bring
Comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily, and comfortable shoes. For wedding lessons, leather-sole shoes are recommended for gentlemen and a shoe with a back for ladies. If you've already purchased wedding shoes, bring them to your first lesson.
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 Washington, DC. 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.