Walk through the doors of Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Lake Oswego for a life-affirming experience! You say you have two left feet? You think you’d be the worst dancer they’ve ever taught? Not true, and no worries even if you are! Fred Astaire Dance Studios provides a welcoming, stress-free environment for the most novice beginners and programs that offer a wide range of appeal. So slip on your dancing shoes and step across the threshold in confidence. Enter a world of movement, personal expression, and social interaction. Bring a friend and share the adventure!

Alex and Jessi Aillon, owners of Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Lake Oswego, extend their passion for dance to the community, inviting you to take advantage of their New Student Introductory Program. Jessi compares it to a wine tasting, since you’ll sample six popular dance styles to determine which suits you best. Helping members of the community understand that dancing can truly be enjoyed by everyone is the heart and soul of this studio. “There are so many valid reasons to take dance lessons that don’t revolve around the goal of being a fantastic self-proclaimed dancer,” says Jessi. She describes the studio culture as more of a community of people who are all trying to figure out what they could do as someone learning to dance.

Beginners should prepare to set aside pre-conceived notions of what it takes to learn to dance. Fred Astaire Dance Studios teachers will have you leaning into your life skills quicker than you can say, “What do you mean, I don’t have to be creative?” Do you play sports, work out, cook, clean, do yoga? Maybe you’re an engineer or accountant. “What we love to do in our teaching is to get to know the individual – what kind of skills and learning methods they bring to the table,” Jessi says. “Then we’re able to teach them how to dance through those familiar concepts, or through the body knowledge they already possess.” She adds, “It’s actually my favorite thing to do as a teacher!”

Students range from age six to seniors in their eighties, singles and couples and all levels of skill. Goals are tailored to meet students’ seasons of life and expectations, such as couples looking for a fun date night or those prepping for wedding dances. A partner format like ballroom dancing can provide emotional benefits and wellness aspects by “working with a coach who comes to know you and your particular struggles when it comes to learning something new,” Jessi explains. Joining a group class can provide a wonderful opportunity to build social bonds with others who are experiencing the same new journey. Take part in one of the 8 p.m. Friday Practice Parties for a fun and less intimidating atmosphere. Just show up and see what it’s like – even if you’ve never danced before, it’s a good way to dip your toe in.

The Fred Astaire dance community has grown over the last two years with the March 2023 opening of the Beaverton location, a “sister studio” to Lake Oswego, headed by principal owner and manager Kacey Bicking. Developing an identity of its own, Jessi notes, “It underscores the idea that a dance studio really is about the people who make it up.” Watching new relationships develop within a new community, holding joint events and having students from Lake Oswego walk into a social party at the Beaverton studio to dance amongst warm and welcoming friends is a truly gratifying experience for Alex and Jessi.

With the gift-giving season upon us, turn to Fred Astaire Dance Studios of Lake Oswego for that unique holiday gift. Offering a number of different dance certificates, be sure to pick one up as a special stocking stuffer or remember to add it to your holiday wish list. You’ll be glad you did!

Fred Astaire Dance Studios is located at 6520 SW Rosewood St. in Lake Oswego. To schedule lessons, inquire about group classes or social dances and events, call (971)255-1918 or visit their website at fredastaire.com/lakeoswego and view their calendar.