The Dance Shack
Salsa, swing, ballroom and Latin dance classes for absolute beginners in Jack…
The Dance Shack teaches social dancing for clubs, bars, ballrooms and anywhere else you want to dance.
Photo: CLEO 3000 via Google
Before your first class
The studio specialises in teaching people who have never danced before; no partner needed for any class.
Free newbie class every Friday 7pm.
About this studio
The Dance Shack teaches social dancing for clubs, bars, ballrooms and anywhere else you want to dance. They specialise in teaching people who have never danced before, offering salsa, bachata, cha cha, merengue, East Coast swing, West Coast swing, New York Hustle, two-step, waltz, tango and foxtrot. The studio runs three types of classes: free newbie samplers every Friday at 7pm, private lessons available 7 days a week between 10am–10pm weekdays and 12–6pm weekends, and group classes divided into beginner, intermediate and advanced levels.
The free newbie class introduces you to Latin dancing (salsa and bachata) and swing dancing (East Coast and Hustle) in one session. No partner or appointment is needed—just drop in. If you decide to continue, the first private lesson is also free. A private lesson is one-on-one with an instructor and covers leading and following, timing, balance, style and other techniques that group classes do not cover. The studio keeps track of your progress so you can pick up where you left off.
Group classes teach foot patterns and are most effective when combined with private lessons. Prices for group classes are $15 per person (singles) or $20 per couple if you hold Shacker Status, or $20 per person with no couple discount otherwise. You can earn Shacker Status—which gives discounted rates forever with no contracts or fees—by purchasing a Shack Pack for $99 (singles) or $149 (couples). The Shack Pack includes one forty-minute private lesson, three group classes, and lifetime Shacker Status.
The studio emphasises flexibility and no-pressure learning. There are no contracts. You can dance to any music, in any setting, once you have learned the patterns and techniques. Social dances are held where you can practice with instructors nearby to help. The studio also runs parties and nights out on the town where members meet and make friendships. A sister studio, The Wedding Dance Studio next door, offers choreographed wedding dance lessons.
What to expect
Your first visit
A welcoming first experience: come to the free Newbie Sampler Class on Friday at 7pm (no booking needed, no partner required), or schedule a free forty-minute private lesson one-on-one with an instructor. Either way, you'll sample the dances taught here and decide whether to continue.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Eddie Laski is listed as manager. The studio mentions separate instructors for beginner, intermediate and advanced group class levels, and instructors supervise the free newbie class and attend social dances to help members.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
The studio specialises in teaching people who have never danced before; no partner needed for any class.
Styles offered
12 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
The Dance Shackhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own The Dance Shack, 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 The Dance Shack
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does The Dance Shack teach?
The Dance Shack teaches General, Salsa, Bachata, Cha Cha, Merengue, East Coast Swing and 6 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is The Dance Shack located?
The Dance Shack is located in Jacksonville, FL. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does The Dance Shack offer private lessons?
Contact The Dance Shack directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does The Dance Shack teach kids and adults?
The Dance Shack 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 The Dance Shack?
The fastest path is to visit The Dance Shack via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.