Fred Astaire Dance Studios
Ballroom, Latin, Swing and more. Private lessons, group classes, wedding chor…
Fred Astaire Dance Studios is a premier ballroom dance franchise established in 1947 with the personal endorsement of Fred Astaire himself.
Before your first class
The studio works with students of all ages and abilities in a warm, non-judgmental atmosphere and promises confident dancing by the end of your first lesson.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that allow easy movement.
Wear something comfortable that allows you to move easily.
One 45-minute private lesson for $30 (introductory offer for new students).
About this studio
Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Worcester teaches ballroom, Latin, Smooth, Rhythm and Swing dances at 319 Shrewsbury Street. The studio's curriculum covers 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 — both International and American Ballroom styles.
The studio runs private lessons, group lessons, and practice parties designed so you learn as much as possible in the shortest time with the most retention. You're expected to be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your first lesson. Instructors include Norm Thibeault (Owner & Instructor), Dan Pace, Amy Toedt, Karin Holovnia, and Stephanie Raymond. All instructors are certified in the Fred Astaire Dance Curriculum, a teaching method developed by Fred Astaire himself. Many hold Fine Arts degrees and are actively competing, award-winning professional dancers who have trained all over the world.
Wedding dance programmes are a major focus. The studio choreographs everything from simple First Dances to full wedding-party routines set to your music. Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dances are also offered. Lessons help couples feel at ease and confident on their wedding day; the studio recommends starting 5–6 months before the wedding. Wedding dance lessons serve as stress relief during wedding planning.
The studio offers competitive opportunities through Fred Astaire's branded Regional, Inter-Regional, National and International Pro-Am and Professional dance competitions. Students can also attend guest parties, showcases, spotlights, community outreach events and coaching sessions. Beyond dance, the studio operates an online Dance Store with dance-related items to help you look and feel your best on and off the dance floor.
What to expect
Your first visit
New students start with a 45-minute private lesson. You'll experience a welcoming, non-judgmental, joyful atmosphere from the moment you walk in. The studio tailors its teaching to your goals — whether social dancing, wedding preparation, competitive training or simply a new hobby. Bring a dance partner or come alone; the studio teaches lessons either way.
Instructors
Who teaches here
The Worcester studio's five named instructors are Norm Thibeault (Owner & Instructor), Dan Pace, Amy Toedt, Karin Holovnia, and Stephanie Raymond. All are certified in the Fred Astaire Dance Curriculum. Many instructors hold Fine Arts degrees and are actively competing, award-winning professional dancers trained all over the world.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
The studio works with students of all ages and abilities in a warm, non-judgmental atmosphere and promises confident dancing by the end of your first lesson.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
Dress code
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that allow easy movement.
What to bring
Wear something comfortable that allows you to move easily. Comfortable shoes are essential; the studio suggests leather-sole shoes for gentlemen and a shoe with a back for ladies.
Studio history
Fred Astaire Dance Studios was founded in 1947. The Worcester location operates under the Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise system, which uses a teaching curriculum developed by Fred Astaire himself.
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, Smooth, Rhythm, Latin, 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 Worcester, MA. 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.