The Breakaway - Swing Dancing in Oakland

- 200 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610

The Breakaway is a vibrant and welcoming community dedicated to the art of swing dancing in the heart of Oakland, California. For locals in the Bay Area, it is a go-to destination for anyone looking to learn, practice, and enjoy swing dance. The atmosphere is consistently praised for being friendly and inclusive, making it a comfortable space for dancers of all levels, from those taking their very first steps to seasoned veterans. The Breakaway’s core mission is to spread the joy of Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, and other jazz-era dances, creating a positive and fun environment where people can connect through movement and music.

What makes The Breakaway truly special is its focus on community. It is more than just a dance studio; it is a hub for jazz dancers who share a common passion. The organizers and regulars have cultivated a culture that is supportive and encouraging, ensuring that new dancers feel right at home. The social dancing aspect is a key part of the experience, providing ample opportunity for everyone to practice their moves and meet new people. This blend of structured lessons and open, social dance floors is a perfect recipe for learning and growth. The Breakaway embodies a spirit of camaraderie and shared love for jazz music and vintage dance that is a hallmark of the Bay Area swing scene.

The Breakaway is the kind of place where you can walk in alone and leave with new friends. The live music nights, in particular, create an electric atmosphere that transports dancers back to the golden age of swing. The dedication to providing both a high-quality learning experience and a lively social outlet is what makes The Breakaway a premier choice for swing dancing enthusiasts in California.

The Breakaway is located at 200 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610. This central location in the East Bay makes it highly accessible for residents coming from Oakland, Berkeley, San Francisco, and other surrounding areas. Accessibility is a key priority for the venue, which offers a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot. These features ensure that the joy of swing dancing is open to as many people as possible.

The spacious and well-maintained ballroom provides a clean and safe environment for all dancers. The location is easy to find, which simplifies planning for weekly attendance. Whether you are driving or using public transportation, the central Oakland address makes The Breakaway a convenient destination for a night of dance and fun. The commitment to a welcoming physical space complements the warm and inviting community, creating an inclusive experience from the moment you arrive.

The Breakaway offers a variety of services designed to cater to dancers at every stage of their journey, from curious beginners to dedicated Lindy Hoppers.

• Beginner Classes: The school offers beginner lessons, which are free with the price of entry to the social dance. These drop-in classes are perfect for true beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of East Coast Swing and Lindy Hop without the pressure of a full series. These lessons are offered weekly, making it easy to jump in at any time.

• Intermediate Classes: For dancers with some experience, The Breakaway holds progressive Intermediate Lindy Hop classes. These sessions are designed to help students refine their technique and learn more complex moves, building upon the foundational knowledge they have already acquired. The curriculum covers a wide variety of core skills for dancers who are ready to take their skills to the next level.

• Private Lessons: For those who want personalized attention and accelerated learning, private lessons are available. This service allows a student to work one-on-one with an instructor to focus on specific techniques, patterns, or goals.

• Social Dancing: Every Thursday night, the main event is social dancing. This is a time for all dancers, regardless of skill level, to put their moves into practice, dance with different partners, and simply enjoy the music and company. Social dancing is a crucial part of the swing dance community and is what makes The Breakaway such a vibrant place.

• Live Band Nights: On the last Thursday of every month, The Breakaway features a live band. This special event offers an enhanced dancing experience, with the energy of live music elevating the entire evening. It is a highly anticipated and celebrated part of the monthly schedule.

The Breakaway is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a standout choice for swing dancing in the Bay Area.

• Inclusivity and Community: The studio is known for its welcoming and inclusive community. Dancers of all skill levels, ages, and backgrounds are encouraged to participate and dance with one another. This friendly atmosphere is consistently mentioned in positive reviews from both new and experienced dancers.

• Live Music: The monthly live band nights are a major highlight. Dancing to a live band adds a whole new dimension to the experience, and The Breakaway's commitment to booking quality musical acts is a significant draw for the community.

• Affordable and Accessible: With a modest entry fee that includes a free beginner lesson, The Breakaway is an affordable option for a night out. The fact that they are going cash-free and accept credit, debit, and NFC mobile payments adds to the convenience. This ease of access, combined with the accessible physical space, makes it a truly welcoming place for everyone.

• Variety of Dance Styles: While focusing on swing, The Breakaway also offers lessons in East Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, and even features Blues Dance and other styles, providing a rich and varied dance experience.

For more information, class schedules, or to connect with the community, you can use the following contact information.

Address: 200 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610, USA

Phone: (925) 319-3643

When considering where to learn or enjoy swing dancing in California, The Breakaway in Oakland is an exceptional choice. What is truly worth choosing is the unparalleled combination of a friendly community and a high-quality dance experience. This is a place where beginners are not only taught but are also welcomed onto the dance floor by seasoned dancers, creating an environment that is both educational and fun. The free beginner lesson with entry is a fantastic way to dip your toes into swing dancing without a major commitment.

The presence of a live band once a month is a rare treat and a testament to the community's dedication to the art form's roots. The Breakaway's commitment to inclusivity and convenience, from its welcoming atmosphere to its accessible facilities and modern payment options, makes it a top-tier destination for anyone in the Bay Area looking for a rewarding and joyful way to spend their Thursday nights. It’s more than just a dance class; it’s a living, breathing community that celebrates music, movement, and human connection.

The Breakaway - Swing Dancing in Oakland

200 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610, USA