Published October 4, 2024
Dance has been a part of Atlanta since the jazz and swing scenes in the early 1900s up to the hip-hop culture of today that gives us styles like crunk and trap. Today, dance in Atlanta ranges from Atlanta Ballet, the country’s oldest continuously running ballet company, to hip-hop, which has influenced dancers worldwide. Whether you’re a beginner or an old hand, Atlanta’s dance scene makes it easy to jump in and find your rhythm.
Ballet/Contemporary
Atlanta Ballet
Atlanta Ballet offers exceptional dance education, creating an inspiring and supportive environment. The focus on core values like respect, collaboration and integrity fosters a vibrant community.
How To Experience It: There are adult classes for professionals, students and seniors plus a one-hour class.
Where: West Midtown, Buckhead, Virginia Highland
Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre
Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre merges traditional ballet with modern choreography. A commitment to innovation supports the growth of an inclusive and dynamic dance culture. Terminus partners with local talent and outreach programs.
How To Experience It: There are drop-in classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Where: 75 Bennett St. NW
Ballethnic Dance Co.
Ballethnic Dance Co. blends traditional ballet with the influences of various cultures, particularly African. Ballethnic Dance Co. enriches the city’s dance scene by promoting diversity and cultural representation, inspiring local dancers and creating inclusive performances.
How To Experience It: There are adult open classes.
Where: 2587 Ballethnic Way
ADMIX Project
The ADMIX Project, originally called Gotta Dance Contemporary, has been a part of Atlanta’s dance scene for the last 10 years. ADMIX focuses on contemporary dance while bringing together artists from various backgrounds to create something fresh and exciting for the local arts community. ADMIX also focuses on training dancers for both commercial and concert careers.
How To Experience It: Join the ADMIX summer program.
Where: 1105 Euclid Ave. NE
Neighborhood Ballet
Neighborhood Ballet offers classes for kids and adults. With locations in Ormewood Park, Grant Park and Northlake Village, Neighborhood Ballet welcomes dancers ranging from 18 months to 80 years old. The company also offer summer camps, birthday parties and cool dance-themed events.
How To Experience It: Join a beginner ballet, jazz or contemporary class or even host a birthday party at the studio for your little one.
Where: Moreland Avenue, Grant Park, Northlake Village
Dance 101
Dance 101 is a studio focused on making dance accessible to adults of all ages and skill levels. It offers a wide range of styles, including hip-hop.
How To Experience It: If you are new to dance, there is the Intro to Dance Fundamentals Workshop.
Where: 855 Emory Point Drive
XCEL Talent Agency
XCEL Talent Agency offers high-energy classes. Led by top choreographers, XCEL teaches professional techniques while embracing self-expression, important for dancers who want to make it in Atlanta’s thriving music and performance industry. XCEL’s classes give dancers access to industry professionals and real career opportunities.
How To Experience It: Book a beginner hip-hop class, online, for dancers 18 years old and older.
Where: 2093 Faulkner Road NE
I-Inspire Dance Studios
I-Inspire Dance Studios offer hip-hop classes that are suitable for dancers at all levels. The classes focus on rhythm, movement and high-energy style.
Where: 1735 Defoor Place NW
Performing Arts
Moving in The Spirit
Moving in the Spirit is a dance program for kids and teens, ages 3 to 18. In addition to teaching dance, the studio helps young people build confidence, leadership skills and a sense of community. Through programs and techniques such as modern, ballet, African, technical theater production and jazz, kids learn to express themselves and work as a team as they gain life skills.
How To Experience It: Classes run from September through May.
Where: 1458 La France St. NE
Dekalb School of the Arts
DeKalb School of the Arts (DSA) offers training in dance, theater, music and visual arts for kids in grades 8 through 12. DSA brings together students from various backgrounds, encouraging them to collaborate and express themselves. This creates a space where different cultures are celebrated. Students get opportunities to perform in various productions throughout the year.
How To Experience It: There is open enrollment at various times.
Where: 1192 Clarendon Ave
City Dance and Music (CityDance)
City Dance and Music recently has shifted to nurturing young dancers, offering them professional growth through events such as Fall for Fall and Elevate Atlanta. CityDance offers a supportive and dynamic environment where dancers can connect, learn and showcase their talents.
How To Experience It: City Dance and Music offers a summer musical theater camp for children ages 7-11.
Where: 524 Plasters Ave. NE
Latin & Salsa
Aatma Dance
Aatma Dance Studio offers lessons in salsa and bachata. New dancers enjoy the energy of the studio and the broader Latin dance culture in Atlanta.
How To Experience It: Choose from a variety of classes.
Where: 3308 Laventure Drive
Fuego y Hielo
Fuego y Hielo brings the fire and the cool to the dance floor. For anyone wanting to learn salsa, bachata or cha-cha-cha, Fuego y Hielo is the place to go. It’s all about having a great time and connecting with Atlanta’s Latin dance scene.
How To Experience It: There are bachata classes every Monday and Wednesday.
Where: 524 Plasters Ave. NE
SALSAtlanta
Specializing in Salsa Casino, SALSAtlanta creates a welcoming environment for dancers of all levels. The studio isn’t just about teaching steps; it’s about diving into the cultural richness of Latin dance. SALSAtlanta offers everything from group classes and private lessons to workshops.
How To Experience It: There are Academy Ballroom Classes for all levels every Sunday.
Where: 800 Miami Circle
African
Manga
Manga is all about bringing African cultural arts to life. Manga offer classes that emphasize dance, drums, fashion, drama and music from western, central and southern Africa, catering to various ages. Classes include everything from dance sessions for kids and teens to more in-depth workshops for adults.
How To Experience It: Drop in for an adult class or bring your little one.
Where: 1083 Austin Ave. NE
Rhythma Studios
Rhythma Studios offers an energetic and inclusive space where Atlanta’s arts and dance communities come together. Alongside an eclectic mix of classes, Rhythma focuses on African dance, drumming and cultural arts.
How To Experience It: Take a class.
Where: 555 Whitehall St.
Uhuru Dancers
Uhuru Dancers, Atlanta’s oldest African dance company, celebrate African culture through traditional dance, music and folklore. Performances, workshops and events include programs such as Mzee Uhuru for older people and Watoto Uhuru for young people. The group has performed at the National Black Arts Festival and even at an Atlanta Hawks game.
How To Experience It: There are classes at the Decatur School of Ballet, open to all ages, genders and skill levels. Uhuru Saturday African Dance occurs the second and fourth Saturdays at D.A.T.E. Charter School Gym.
Where: 667 Fairburn Road
Once you’ve mastered your dance moves, explore our Guide to Dinner and Dancing in Atlanta to find the best spots to dine, dance and show off.
Sophia Morro is a former ballet dancer with the Atlanta Ballet, working towards her marketing degree. With a passion for dance, food and culture, she enjoys writing about Atlanta’s growing arts scene and connecting readers to the city’s diverse experiences.
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