Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Fred Astaire Dance Studios occupies the ground floor of 1661 North Water Street in downtown Milwaukee, in the Historic Third Ward. The studio teaches ballroom and Latin dance to students of all ages and abilities, with or without a partner.

The studio's curriculum covers 20+ partner dances across American and International styles, including 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. Classes and private lessons are available for social dancing, wedding preparation, and competitive training. Wedding programs range from simple first dances to full choreography for the wedding party. The studio also runs social practice parties, guest coaching sessions and community events.

Teaching combines private lessons, group classes and practice parties in a curriculum developed by Fred Astaire himself and taught only at Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Many instructors have Fine Arts degrees and are actively competing award-winning professional dancers. The studio's staff includes Studio Co-Director Anna Tomasini, Studio Training Director Daniel Skyler (who has danced at Fred Astaire since 2001), and dance instructors Serhii Kotenko, Viktor Malichenko and Yana Pobidynska. The studio also offers online shopping for dance-related items.

The studio is part of the FADS network and hosts regional, inter-regional and national Pro-Am and professional dance competitions. Local events include the Milwaukee DanceSport Classic & Awards Gala, Dance Fantasy, Great Lakes Championships, Spring Trophy Ball, Wisconsin Grand Championships, Cream City Challenge and Holiday Trophy Ball. Fred Astaire Dance Studios' stated mission is to enrich lives physically, mentally, emotionally and socially through dance.

Operating hours are Monday to Thursday 12pm–9pm, Friday 12pm–7:30pm, and Saturday by appointment only.

You'll notice a welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere from the moment you step inside. New students can take advantage of an introductory offer; no prior experience or partner is required. You're on your way to confident dancing by the end of your first lesson.

Dance instructors are gifted educators from around the world, many with Fine Arts degrees and active competition records. All complete rigorous Fred Astaire curriculum certification. The studio co-director, Anna Tomasini, walked in as a student 14 years ago; training director Daniel Skyler began dancing here in 2001.

No prior experience or partner necessary; the studio explicitly welcomes beginners.