Big Apple Ballroom: The Heart of Social and Ballroom Dance Culture in New York City
New York City is a place where creativity thrives, cultures mix, and art takes endless forms. From Broadway theaters to subway musicians, the city lives and breathes rhythm. Yet among all the cultural giants of New York, one place stands out for bringing dance back to its core purpose: connection, confidence, and joy. That place is Big Apple Ballroom, an inviting ballroom and social-dance studio located near Union Square.
While New York offers many world-class dance facilities, Big Apple Ballroom has carved out a special place in the hearts of its students. It isn’t a massive institution or a hyper-competitive ballroom academy. Instead, it is a boutique studio that focuses on personalized teaching, warmth, and the life-changing magic of learning to dance.
This long-form article explores the story, philosophy, and experience of Big Apple Ballroom, and why it continues to be one of the most beloved dance studios in the city.
1. The Philosophy: Dance Is for Everyone
Big Apple Ballroom operates on a simple belief: anyone can learn to dance.
This philosophy is surprisingly rare in a city where many dance spaces cater only to professionals, advanced dancers, or competitive ballroom circuits. Big Apple Ballroom takes the opposite approach. Its goal is to make dance accessible, unintimidating, and enjoyable for people from every background.
Welcoming beginners with open arms
For many people, walking into a dance studio for the first time can be scary. Some worry about having two left feet; others fear they will look awkward or slow. Big Apple Ballroom is designed to remove that fear.
The instructors know how to teach absolute beginners from scratch. They focus on simple foundations, body comfort, and natural movement rather than perfection. This supportive approach helps students relax, learn faster, and discover confidence they never knew they had.
A home for experienced dancers as well
While beginners feel at home, intermediate and advanced dancers also thrive here. The instructors have professional training across ballroom, Latin, and rhythm styles. This allows them to offer tailored feedback, advanced technique, and choreography for those who want a challenge or are preparing for special events.
2. The Teaching Style: Professional but Personal
Many dance studios rely on fast-paced group classes or rigid curriculums. Big Apple Ballroom is different. Their teaching style balances three elements rarely found together:
• Expert technique
• Relaxed atmosphere
• Personalized guidance
Each instructor brings years of technical experience yet maintains a warm and approachable teaching method. They care not only about steps, but about how students feel while dancing—confident, comfortable, and connected.
Technique made simple
Students often describe the teaching as clear, intuitive, and surprisingly fun. Even when learning complex dances like tango or Viennese waltz, instructors break everything down into manageable pieces.
You learn posture, partner connection, rhythm, timing, and body movement. The goal is not to create rigid, robotic dancers, but confident movers who can enjoy any dance floor.
3. A Full Range of Ballroom and Social Dance Styles
Big Apple Ballroom offers a rich variety of partner-dance styles, ranging from classic ballroom to energetic Latin rhythms.
Ballroom styles
Waltz
Foxtrot
Tango
Viennese Waltz
Quickstep
Latin and rhythm styles
Cha-Cha
Rumba
Salsa
Swing
Samba
Mambo
Bachata (in some private lessons)
Social dance and event styles
Slow dance
Wedding dance basics
Custom first-dance choreography
Nightclub Two-Step
Social floorcraft and etiquette
This diversity allows students to explore different moods, expressions, and energies within the world of dance.
4. Private Lessons: The Fastest and Most Effective Way to Learn
Private lessons are one of the studio’s specialties. These one-on-one sessions allow students to learn at their own pace with a dedicated instructor who tailors every detail to their goals.
Why students love private lessons
• Rapid improvement
• Personalized corrections
• Increased confidence
• Flexible scheduling
• A comfortable environment for shy or new dancers
Private instruction is especially popular among professionals who have limited time or couples preparing for important events.
Wedding dance preparation
The studio’s wedding services are among their most appreciated offerings. Couples receive help with music selection, choreography, partner connection, and pacing. Whether they want something elegant and simple or a dramatic routine, Big Apple Ballroom ensures they feel prepared and relaxed on their big day.
5. Group Classes: Fun, Social, and Beginner-Friendly
Group classes are perfect for students who want a lively learning experience. These sessions include step-by-step instruction, partner rotation, and lots of encouragement.
What makes group classes special
• Small class sizes
• Friendly, patient teachers
• Easy-to-follow instruction
• No partner required
• Great way to make friends
Group classes are ideal for people who want to build rhythm, coordination, and social-dance confidence in a supportive environment.
6. Social Dance Events: Turning Lessons into Real-Life Confidence
Big Apple Ballroom regularly hosts practice socials—fun, low-pressure events where students can dance with different partners and apply what they’ve learned.
At these events, students develop:
• Leading and following skills
• Musicality
• Social confidence
• Floorcraft
• Real dancing experience
Social events are often where students truly feel their progress. It’s one thing to practice steps in class; it’s another to dance comfortably among peers and enjoy the music.