Where to shake a leg

Don’t worry about having two left feet. We found dance studios for singles, couples, and groups that can teach you how to move around a dance floor. Classes, private lessons, drop-ins, and weekly events offer everything from ballroom dancing to kicking it with a tap routine. And let’s not forget the art of belly dancing or getting in shape with Zumba. Here are just a few of the many dance studios to check out in and around Seattle and the Eastside to find personalized and professional instruction.

Arthur Murray School of Dance has been around for years. Some of you may remember Arthur and his wife, Kathryn, cutting a rug on their TV show years ago (1950-1960). Arthur Murray studios are still going strong today and are located conveniently around the Puget Sound. Whatever dance style you want to learn, they probably know it. Check out their classes and private instruction in swing, tango, two step, waltz, country western, and more.
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Bellydancing By Zaphara, an entertainer and master instructor in the art of belly dancing who can show  you the way to fitness through dance. Belly dancing is one of the most difficult workouts of all the dance forms, one that strengthens your muscles, helps with coordination, tones your arms and shoulders, and is also a lot of fun. Get the workout you need with this low-impact dance.
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My World Dance & Fitness Studio is located in a new, state-of-the-art space with a suspended Marley floor, a full wall of mirrors, changing room, and awesome sound system. With dance and fitness classes from around the world, My World Dance has drop-in dance classes in salsa, swing, belly dance, and samba. Fitness classes include yoga, funk aerobics, tai chi, and Pilates Mat. They also offer ballet and jazz for ages 3-9, and Children and Youth Hip Hop! Try the 3rd Friday Salsa Dance Party. No partner necessary.
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Dance for Joy gives you the chance to dance creatively and playfully and, at the same time, learn to waltz, swing, and zydeco, so check out the weekly classes and events. Their Web site even has an online discography for practicing your new dancing skills. Look for workshops and live music with lots of waltz, swing, foxtrot, and polka .
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Belltown Dance Studio provides an opportunity to meet new people and have fun at the same time!  Classes include salsa, Argentine tango, West African dance, and more.  All students are given individual attention and an optional rotating system so that a dance partner is not required.  Zumba, a fusion of hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow steps, is also available.
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The Century Ballroom has one of the largest dance floors in Seattle (2000 sq. feet), as well as a restaurant, The Tin Table, and a full bar. Learn to dance the salsa, lindy hop, East and West Coast swing, and more. With a calendar jam packed with nightly drop-in lessons and classes, live DJs and entertainment, you’ll find a party almost every night. No need for a partner to have fun.
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In case you find all the dance styles confusing, check out The History of Dance for a short history of each dance form, a description, and background information.

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