In Step School of Dance Introduce
For residents across Northern Virginia and the greater Fairfax area, In Step School of Dance stands out as a beloved institution for anyone looking to embrace the world of ballroom and social dancing. This women-owned business is more than a place to learn a few steps; it is a vibrant community where people of all ages and skill levels can find joy, confidence, and connection through the art of dance. Whether you're a complete novice with two left feet or an experienced dancer looking for a new practice space, In Step offers a welcoming and supportive environment that makes everyone feel at home. With a philosophy that focuses on making dance accessible and enjoyable, this school has become a cherished go-to for locals who want to stay active, social, and engaged.
The core of In Step's appeal lies in its friendly and non-intimidating atmosphere. Unlike studios that might push students into competitive environments, In Step's focus is on the social and personal benefits of dancing. This is a place where the journey is as important as the destination. The owner, Susan Shay, is a highly-praised instructor known for her patience and encouraging teaching style. As one long-time student happily shares, even for "slow learners," Susan makes the experience enjoyable and rewarding. This commitment to personalized attention ensures that every individual gets the support they need to learn and grow, fostering a sense of accomplishment and genuine love for the activity. Over the years, countless people have found that ballroom dancing at In Step has brought a tremendous amount of satisfaction and happiness into their lives, with many forming lifelong friendships and finding a new social outlet.
The school’s offerings are designed to cater to a wide variety of needs and interests. From structured group lessons to flexible walk-in classes and dedicated practice sessions, there's a format for everyone's schedule and budget. A particularly popular feature is the weekly Friday night open dance, which provides an easy-going opportunity for social dancing to a mix of old classics and new tunes. This is a fantastic way for students to practice what they’ve learned in a real-world setting, and for new dancers to get a taste of the social dance scene without any pressure. The fact that the school offers these types of low-cost, low-commitment entry points is a testament to their desire to share the joy of dance with the entire community. They also host special workshops and themed events, keeping the calendar full of fresh and exciting ways to get involved.
In addition to catering to adults, In Step School of Dance is also great for kids, offering youth classes that introduce young people to the joy and discipline of dance. This makes it a fantastic resource for families in the area, providing an engaging activity that promotes physical fitness, coordination, and social skills in a fun environment. The school’s dedication to its craft is evident in its adaptability, as seen during the post-COVID period where they continued to be an "awesome" place to dance. This resilience and commitment to their students, even during challenging times, further solidifies their reputation as a reliable and caring local business. Whether you are preparing for a special occasion like a wedding or simply looking for a new hobby, In Step's range of classes and events ensures that your unique needs will be met with professionalism and enthusiasm. They truly live up to their name by helping students take that crucial "first step" and guiding them on a rewarding dance journey.
Ultimately, In Step School of Dance is a cornerstone of the Fairfax community for a reason. It is a place that goes beyond the mechanics of dance, focusing on the human element—the connection, the confidence, and the sheer happiness that dancing can bring. The longevity of the school, with some students attending for over 25 years, speaks volumes about the quality of the instruction and the strength of the community they have built. For anyone in Virginia who has ever thought about ballroom dancing, from the absolute beginner to the experienced social dancer, In Step is a place where you can find excellent teaching, a warm welcome, and a fulfilling new chapter in your life. It is highly recommended to "anyone and everyone" by its devoted clientele, and it’s a recommendation that’s easy to wholeheartedly agree with.
In Step School of Dance is conveniently located at 9440 Mathy Dr, Fairfax, VA 22031, making it a central and accessible spot for residents throughout Northern Virginia. The location offers on-site services, and for those with mobility concerns, the school provides a wheelchair-accessible car park and toilet, demonstrating a commitment to welcoming all members of the community. The presence of gender-neutral toilets also contributes to a modern and inclusive environment. The studio's ease of access and well-thought-out amenities make it a stress-free destination for students of all backgrounds.
In Step School of Dance offers a wide range of services to cater to every level and interest in ballroom and social dancing. The classes are designed to be flexible and engaging for both individuals and couples. Their extensive list of services includes:
- Adult lessons
- Youth classes
- Beginner's classes
- Intermediate classes
- Advanced classes
- Private lessons
- Group classes
- Walk-In Classes
- Evening Classes
- Argentine Tango Class
- Fox Trot
- Viennese Waltz
- Rhythm Dances
- Smooth Dances
- Social Dance Classes
- Tango Workshops
- Tap Dancing Classes
- Traditional Dances
- Wedding Dance
- Dance Parties
- Practice Parties
- Practice Sessions
- Special Class
In Step School of Dance has several key features that make it a top choice for dance enthusiasts in the Fairfax area. These highlights contribute to its reputation as a welcoming and high-quality dance school:
Women-Owned Business: As a women-owned business, the school brings a unique perspective and leadership to its teaching and community-building.
Accessible and Inclusive: With a wheelchair-accessible car park and toilet, along with gender-neutral toilets, the school is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming space for all.
Variety of Learning Options: The school offers a mix of group classes, private lessons, and casual walk-in sessions, providing flexibility for all learning styles and schedules.
Social Focus: The emphasis on social dancing, including dedicated Dance Parties and Practice Sessions, provides a fun and low-pressure environment to apply what is learned in class.
Experienced and Patient Instruction: The owner, Susan Shay, is known for her exceptional teaching skills and patience, making her an ideal instructor for beginners and those who learn at a slower pace.
Affordable and Flexible Pricing: The school offers reasonably priced classes and walk-in options, making dance accessible without a long-term financial commitment.
Modern Payment Options: For convenience, the school accepts various forms of payment, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
For more information, class schedules, or to book a lesson, you can contact In Step School of Dance directly.
Address: 9440 Mathy Dr, Fairfax, VA 22031, USA
Phone: (703) 323-8304
When considering a dance school in the Fairfax and Northern Virginia region, In Step School of Dance is an outstanding choice for several key reasons. First and foremost, its identity as a women-owned business brings a unique perspective and a nurturing, professional atmosphere that is highly valued by its students. The school's commitment to accessibility, evidenced by its wheelchair-accessible facilities and gender-neutral toilets, makes it a truly welcoming place for everyone in the community. Furthermore, what truly sets In Step apart is its primary focus on social dancing. For many, the idea of a dance class can be intimidating, but In Step’s approach removes that pressure, emphasizing fun, connection, and personal growth over competition. The availability of flexible options like walk-in classes and affordable beginner lessons on Friday nights makes it incredibly easy for newcomers to try it out without a major commitment. The quality of instruction is consistently praised, with the owner, Susan Shay, lauded for her patience and ability to teach effectively. Her passion for dance is infectious and has helped many students find not just a hobby, but a source of immense happiness and social engagement. In Step’s reputation as a reliable and beloved local business is backed by decades of positive experiences from its students, who often return year after year. For anyone in Virginia looking for a place to learn, socialize, and fall in love with ballroom dancing, In Step School of Dance is wholeheartedly a worthy choice.
In Step School of Dance Services
Dance School
- Adult lessons
- Advanced classes
- Beginner's classes
- Intermediate classes
- Private lessons
- Youth classes
- Argentine Tango Class
- Dance Parties
- Evening Classes
- Fox Trot
- Group Classes
- Group Lessons
- Group Session
- Practice Party
- Practice Session
- Private Lessons
- Rhythm Dances
- Smooth Dances
- Social Dance Classes
- Special Class
- Step School
- Tango Workshops
- Tap Dancing Classes
- Traditional Dances
- Viennese Waltz
- Walk-In Classes
- Wedding Dance
In Step School of Dance Details
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- On-site services
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
Amenities
- Gender-neutral toilets
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
In Step School of Dance Photos










In Step School of Dance Location
In Step School of Dance Reviews
ballroom dancingfriday
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1If you are interested in Ballroom dancing but don't want to be hassled into taking classes. This is the place. Every Friday night they have an open dance from 9 until 11 pm. Easy social dancing to older music and some of the newer tunes on the radio. They do off reasonably priced classes if you wish to learn. Also on Friday beginning at 7:30 pm, they offer a beginning lesson for about $7. It lasts 45 minutes. After that is an intermediate and an advanced class. They also offer dance workshops. Lots of things to keep you busy and in shape.Ike most small businesses covid has impacted them. They are still awesome so if you are looking to dance this is a go-to place. The dance tests and mini spotlight are awesome.
February 19 · Robert MoranI have been going to In Step School of Dance for over 25 years. While I am not the most talented dancer I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I have taken lessons from the owner, Susan Shay. She is a fantastic dance teacher and very patient with slow learners like me. Ballroom dancing is a great social activity. It has allowed me to meet many wonderful people. Ballroom dancing has brought a tremendous amount of satisfaction and happiness into my life. Without any hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend In Step School of Dance to anyone and everyone.
November 05 · conrad heerFantastic ballroom lessons, and many during daytime, too. Small classes with excellent instructors who make sure you not only know the steps, but know the "dance," (style) too. TJ and Ralph are superb instructors! Don't need to sign a contract, and prices are reasonable and won't break the bank. Skip the light fandango!
March 31 · Charles PolingerI'm surprised there aren't more reviews. I've been going to In Step for the last couple of months, several times a week. I get something different for all the expert instructors and since I go multiple times a week I have had classes with TJ, Bill, John, Carl, Kit, and a few others who are good but I don't recall their names.I especially like the Friday night classes followed by dance. Lots of people to practice with. Everyone is friendly. Competitively priced.
January 02 · Kate vSThis is a fantastic place to dance! Lessons and Dance every Friday, Special Events during Holidays, Special Dances in April for Anniversary, Christmas, New Years, Cruises every 2 years, group and private lessons available. A fun way to meet people, have fun and enjoy dancing!
May 06 · Jeanne Little
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