To find a dance class near you, start with an online search for “dance class + your city,” then check your local council’s directory of community groups and look for local dance nights. Then, book a trial class at two or three different studios before committing. You can only judge a class for yourself: the level of the group, the teacher’s approach, the quality of the floor, and whether the schedule works with your week.
Clarify what you are looking for
Before you start looking, answer three questions. They will help you avoid signing up at the wrong place.
- Which dance? Partner dancing (salsa, bachata, rock and roll, tango, ballroom dancing, West Coast Swing) or solo dancing (ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, tap): the studios are not the same.
- What is your goal? Leisure and social dancing, technical progress, an end-of-year performance, or competition. A school focused on stage performances or competitions will have a different pace than a social dancing club.
- With or without a partner? Most partner dancing classes rotate partners, so you can come alone. Ask anyway: some classes, especially ballroom dancing, are organized around registered couples.
Where to look
Online
Searching a map using the name of the dance and your city will show nearby schools and community groups, along with their schedules and reviews. Read recent reviews rather than the overall rating, and check the studio’s website or page for the season’s schedule.
Your local council
Many local councils publish a directory of community groups and hold a community group fair at the start of the school year. This is a good opportunity to meet teachers, watch demonstrations, and compare several options in one afternoon.
At dance venues
Dance nights and open practice sessions are an excellent source of information: dancers know which classes are good, where the atmosphere is welcoming, and which teachers explain things well to beginners. Local groups and pages on social media also share information about classes and workshops.
Through dance federations and conservatories
Sports and cultural federations that oversee dance often list their affiliated clubs. For children and teenagers who want to study ballet, contemporary dance, or jazz, local conservatories often offer a structured curriculum, with entry requirements to check.
Types of studios
| Studio | Strengths | Points to check |
|---|---|---|
| Private dance school | Multiple levels, extensive schedules, specialization by style | Commitment for the year or term, refund conditions |
| Community group | Friendly atmosphere, student social events, often an annual membership fee | Group size, teacher consistency |
| Community center or cultural center | Accessible, close to home, varied options | Studio floor, level of specialization |
| Conservatory | Progressive curriculum for children and teenagers | Limited places, admission requirements |
| Private lessons | Rapid progress, tailored content | Supplement with group classes to dance with others |
The criteria of a good class
The teacher
In France, teaching ballet, contemporary dance, and jazz for pay is a regulated profession: teachers must generally hold a state teaching certificate or have an equivalent qualification or exemption. For other styles, ask about their training, experience, and teaching style. A good teacher breaks down the steps, provides individual corrections, and adapts the pace to the group.
The studio and floor
The floor matters for your joints. Parquet or a sprung dance floor absorbs some of the impact. Tiled or bare concrete floors strain the knees and ankles, especially in dance that involves jumping. Also check the ventilation, the space per student, and the availability of mirrors for solo dancing.
The level of the group
An “all levels” class is rarely ideal for a true beginner. Look for a dedicated beginner class, or ask when the next term begins. Arriving halfway through the year in a group that started in September can be discouraging.
Organization
Ask these questions before paying: Are the times compatible with your week? Can you make up a missed class? How long is the commitment? What are the registration or membership fees? Is a license required? Also ask whether a medical certificate or health declaration is required.
Make the most of the trial class
Most studios offer a trial class, free or at a reduced rate. Use the opportunity to observe as well as to dance.
- Arrive a little early to see the end of the previous class and how people are welcomed.
- See whether the teacher takes the time to explain things to newcomers and correct each student.
- Observe the atmosphere among the students: do they talk to you and invite you to dance?
- Note how you feel when you leave: tired but happy, or lost and frustrated?
As for what to wear, loose clothing is sufficient. For your feet, ask the teacher for advice before buying: depending on the dance, they will recommend dance shoes, half-shoes, suede-soled shoes, or dance sneakers. Avoid regular sneakers with treaded soles on parquet floors, as they prevent pivoting. Our guide to choosing dance shoes will then help you make the right choice, and the beginner dance shoes selection includes easy-to-use styles. For salsa, see our salsa shoes directly.
The right time to start
September remains the time when most beginner classes start. Many studios also open a new term in January, and holiday workshops allow you to try a dance for a few days. For a child, ask what age the class is open to: classes are often called introductory or foundation classes before technical classes begin. Our guide to children’s dance shoes tells you what to buy, and the children’s dance shoes collection includes suitable styles. Once you have signed up, the dance class bag checklist will help you avoid forgetting anything.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sign up alone for a partner dancing class?
Yes, in most salsa, bachata, rock and roll, or West Coast Swing classes, partners rotate during the class. Some ballroom dancing classes are organized around registered couples, so ask when you sign up. Coming alone also allows you to dance with more partners and progress faster.
How many trial classes should I take before choosing?
Two or three different studios are generally enough to compare the teacher, atmosphere, and floor. If there is only one studio near you, take at least one trial class before paying for the year.
Should I buy dance shoes before the first class?
No. Come with clean shoes with smooth soles and ask the teacher for advice. Then buy a pair suited to your dance once you are sure you want to continue.
Is it too late to start dancing as an adult?
No, most schools and community groups have beginner classes for adults, and partner dancing attracts many beginners of all ages. If you have a health problem or joint pain, ask your doctor for advice before you start.