Welcome to Ballroom Dance Chicago

Imagine for a moment you are traveling to a country far away from your familiar oasis of Chicago. You have no prior experience with this new culture, and you have no idea what to expect. People will probably be dressed differently from you, they might speak another language, and even ordering a coffee might be stressful! Needless to say, you're probably a little nervous about visiting for the first time.

We understand that for most of our students, this is what it feels like to step into a dance studio for the first time. Will there be sequins and disco balls everywhere? Am I allowed to wear jeans? What am I going to have to do? This can all seem a little overwhelming. But, have no fear! You’ll find our spaces warm and welcoming from the moment you walk through the door. You’ll look around and see couples just like you working with instructors that want you to be successful. 

Here’s what you can expect your first time in the studio:

  1. You'll come into the studio, and we'll say "Hello!" (sometimes from across the studio). If there's already a lesson happening in the space, hang your coats and make yourself comfortable. As soon as we've available, come say hello and make sure you’re situated. Also, keep in mind, you're welcome to BYOB!

  2. You'll tell us about yourselves and your dance goals (if you have specific goals; if not, no problem!). We’ll answer any questions you have about the process.

  3. Once we’ve discussed any questions you have and gotten to know each other a bit, we’ll head out to the dance floor.

  4. We’ll take it from the very beginning by talking about how to connect with your partner and practice moving together in different directions.

  5. By the end of your first appointment, you'll have a better understanding of the fundamentals of leading and following, connecting with your partner, and moving your body efficiently through space.

There is no need to feel anxious or nervous about your first time in! 98% of our students start with zero dance experience, and we specialize in teaching beginners or “non-dancers” to find their own voice and style through dance. We will start at the beginning, whatever that means for you. Whether the beginning means walking with a little extra style or starting into dance “steps”, we’ll meet you where you are. Our objective is always to make you feel as comfortable and confident as possible throughout the learning process. The more comfortable you are, the more excited you’ll be to come back week-after-week.

In over 15 years as a business, we have never encountered a student who is incapable of learning to dance, and trust us, you will not be the exception. Regardless of your prior experience with dance, if you engage in the process and give yourself the benefit of the doubt, you are sure to be successful. Psychologist Sherrie Campbell writes in an article from Entrepreneur.com that “to be successful, choose your thoughts wisely and deliberately.” If you think you will be successful, you will be! Above all, just relax and enjoy a full hour focused on you and your partner.

Finding Our Studios

Lakeview Studio
4039B N Ravenswood Ave
312-504-5866

There is free parking in front of the studio, but please allow time for parking considerations so that it does not interfere with your scheduled lesson.

When you arrive, look for the big Ballroom Dance Chicago sign above our door. On the day of your appointment, if you're running late or need to contact us last minute, please give us a call at 312-504-5866 (Lakeview studio).

West Loop Loft Studio
845 W Fulton, Suite 213
224-425-8724

Parking in West Loop can be difficult. Please allow extra time for parking considerations so that it does not interfere with your scheduled lesson.

The West Loop studio is located across the street from Beatrix. When you arrive buzz #213 on the call box to enter. Follow the hallway back to the elevator and go to the second floor. Turn right when you exit the elevator to find our studio. On the day of your appointment, if you're running late or need to contact us last minute, please give us a call at 224-425-8724 (West Loop studio).

FAQ

  • Our Lakeview studio is located at 4039B N. Ravenswood Ave (near Irving Park), Chicago, IL 60613.

    Public Transportation: Brown Line CTA stop at Irving Park, Ashland Bus # 9, and Irving Park Bus # 80.

    Driving Directions: Ravenswood Ave has two directions, running on either side of the Metra tracks. We are located at the Ravenswood on the East side of the Metra tracks. Free parking is available in front of our building.

    Our West Loop Loft studio is located at 845 W Fulton St, Ste. 213 Chicago, IL 60607.

    Public Transportation: Blue Line CTA stop at Grand, Green and Pink Line CTA stop at Morgan.

    Parking: Metered/street parking available in the area.

  • Consultations and lessons are 45 minutes. The last 5 minutes of each appointment is spent scheduling and taking notes. Once your instructor leaves, you have up to fifteen minutes to practice in the space.

  • If you're running behind schedule, don't worry. Just give us a call at 312-504-5866 (Lakeview) or 224-425-8724 (West Loop studio) and let us know you're on your way. Due to our busy schedules, we'll still need to end your appointment at the originally scheduled time.

    We have a strict cancellation policy. If you need to cancel at the last minute (within 24 hours of your appointment), you will be charged.

  • Rates range for private lesson range from $135 – $180, depending on the number of lessons purchased in a package. Rates for completely private lessons range from $165 - $210, depending on the number of lessons purchased in a package. Don’t feel pressured to make a decision about the number of lessons right away. You can speak with your instructor about your goals and your time frame on your first visit.

  • Wear anything that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Generally our students wear regular daywear: slacks, jeans, dresses, tee shirts. Bring shoes that you will wear when you go out dancing or similar to the ones you will wear at your wedding. We recommend bringing shoes with a non-grip sole (sneakers are not recommended) that will stay attached to your feet (flip-flops are not the best option).

  • Firstly, not to worry. You can begin taking dance lessons without knowing your song. Your instructor can start by exploring different styles of dance with you, and this will help you decide on a song that suits your favorite dance style. We’ve written many blog posts with useful tips about choosing your first dance song. More importantly, we'll be able to discuss some options and offer suggestions on your first visit.

  • To cancel a lesson or consultation without being charged for the lesson, you must notify us 24 hours before your appointment starts (For example, if your scheduled lesson starts at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, you must call or email us before 8 p.m. on Tuesday). We do enforce a strict cancellation policy, so let us know if your schedule changes ASAP. To reschedule a lesson, please email info@ballroomdancechicago.com or call (312) 504-5866 (Lakeview).

  • All of our lessons and packages of lessons are nonrefundable and do not expire. After one year, packages of lessons only retain the original purchase value and can be applied to the purchase of a new package.