The Garage Dance Studio & Coffee Lounge

The Garage Dance Studio & Coffee Lounge is an adult-focused dance space in New Britain, Connecticut, catering to dancers aged 19–90. Founded and directed by Muna Swairjo, the studio's mission is to support the creative journey of each student in a fun, affordable and caring environment that allows for individual style and growth. The focus is on quality dance instruction covering technique, rhythm and musicality, whether you're trying dance for the first time or exploring it more seriously.

The studio offers a diverse range of dance styles. Argentine tango is central to the program—HARTS (Hartford Argentine Tango Society) runs beginners classes, intermediate and advanced master classes on Wednesday evenings, and regular milongas and practicas. Line dance classes with Wendy run on Mondays and require no partner; they're pitched as accessible to complete beginners and experienced dancers alike. West Coast Swing socials, hosted by Angelina Capalbo, run monthly on the third Saturday. The calendar also features bachata classes, hustle, ballroom, NC2 step, and salsa socials.

Beyond regular classes, the studio hosts social dance events and milongas—tango-specific social dancing nights. A monthly West Coast Swing social includes a free class followed by social dancing. Special events like the HARTS Milonga for Nate Evans have raised funds for community members. The studio also advertises private dance lessons, gift certificates, and wedding dance instruction.

The space is described as new and well appointed. Muna Swairjo and Angelo Martucci serve as Argentine Tango DJs for events. The studio operates with COVID-19 prevention protocols in place. You can subscribe to a mailing list to stay updated on the full schedule of classes, practicas, milongas and socials.

On your first visit, you'll find a welcoming, energetic atmosphere. Line dance classes are designed for complete beginners with no partner required—just bring comfortable shoes and enthusiasm. Other classes vary in level; check the schedule for beginner-friendly options or contact the studio directly to confirm which class suits your experience.

Muna Swairjo directs and manages the studio and teaches HARTS intermediate and advanced tango classes on Wednesday evenings (7:30–9 pm). Wendy teaches Monday line dance classes. Angelina Capalbo hosts the monthly West Coast Swing socials. Angelo Martucci and Muna Swairjo both serve as Argentine Tango DJs for events.

Line dance classes are explicitly welcoming to complete beginners with no partner needed; other classes vary in level from beginner to advanced.