Who Dat Steppers (WDS) of New Orleans, LA (NOLA), LLC, dba, Urban Swing Dance Institute (USDI)

- 1995 Gentilly Blvd Suite C-6, New Orleans, LA 70119

Welcome to Who Dat Steppers (WDS) of New Orleans, LA, also known as the Urban Swing Dance Institute (USDI), a unique and culturally significant organization deeply rooted in the heart of our city. In a place where music and movement are the very lifeblood of the community, Who Dat Steppers offers more than just dance lessons; it provides a portal to the rich history and vibrant culture of New Orleans. We are a socially and culturally conscious urban swing dance organization with a powerful mission: "social dancing for social change." We believe that the art forms of Jazz and Urban Swing Dance, born from the historical and cultural legacy of New Orleans' Congo Square and Harlem's Savoy Club, are a powerful foundation for unification.

Our institute is dedicated to the valuation and preservation of these original American art forms. We use these uniquely African American creations as a way to build community and bring people together. By engaging in urban swing dancing, you're not just learning a skill; you're becoming a part of a movement that honors our city's heritage. Our classes are designed to be accessible and engaging for everyone, whether you're a complete beginner who has never danced before or someone with years of experience. We provide a space where you can explore the rhythms that define our city, connect with others, and contribute to a legacy that continues to evolve. At Who Dat Steppers, every step you take is a step toward celebrating our shared culture and building a more unified community, one dance at a time.

Finding your way to the rhythm has never been easier. The Who Dat Steppers/Urban Swing Dance Institute is located at 1995 Gentilly Blvd Suite C-6, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA. Our spot in the Gentilly area makes us a convenient destination for residents from across New Orleans. Whether you're coming from the French Quarter, Mid-City, or the Gentilly neighborhood, our central location provides easy access. The area is well-known and easy to navigate, so you can focus on the fun of dancing without the stress of a long commute.

We believe that dance should be for everyone, and our location is part of that commitment. While specific accessibility details for our physical location are limited in public data, our focus on welcoming people from all backgrounds and our emphasis on community building are central to our philosophy. We strive to make every student feel comfortable and included, and we encourage anyone with questions about accessibility to reach out to us directly. Our goal is to ensure that everyone who wants to experience the joy of urban swing dancing has the opportunity to do so in a supportive and accommodating environment. The spirit of our classes is all about bringing people together, and that starts with making our space open and available to all who wish to join our dance family.

At Who Dat Steppers/Urban Swing Dance Institute, we offer a variety of services designed to fit your unique needs and schedule. Whether you prefer the energy of a group setting or the personalized attention of a one-on-one session, we have an option for you. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive and enriching dance education, ensuring that every student can find their rhythm and grow as a dancer. Our services include:

• Dance Classes: Our core offering, these classes cover the fundamentals and intricacies of urban swing dance. They are designed to teach you not only the steps but also the history and feeling behind the movement.
• Group Class: Join a group of fellow dance enthusiasts and learn together. Group classes are a fantastic way to meet new people, practice your skills, and experience the communal joy of swing dancing. They provide a high-energy and social atmosphere that is both fun and effective for learning.
• Livestream Classes: For those who can’t make it to our physical location, or who simply prefer to dance from the comfort of home, our livestream classes provide a flexible and convenient option. You can log in and participate in real-time, receiving expert instruction from anywhere.
• Onsite Classes: Experience the full energy and community of our studio by attending our in-person classes. Our onsite sessions allow for direct interaction with instructors and fellow dancers, which is crucial for mastering partner dances.
• Private Class: Get personalized, one-on-one instruction with a dedicated teacher. A private class is ideal for working on specific techniques, getting tailored feedback, or preparing for a special event. It's a great way to accelerate your progress and build confidence on the dance floor.
• Swing Dance Classes: Our specialty, these classes focus specifically on the art of swing dance. We teach the authentic steps, styling, and musicality that make this dance form so beloved. We celebrate the historical roots of this art form while making it relevant and enjoyable for today’s dancers.
• Swing Dancing: Beyond the structured classes, we also promote and participate in social swing dancing events. We encourage our students to use their skills in a real-world setting, as social dancing is where the true magic of swing dance comes alive. We are a hub for the swing dance community in New Orleans.

Who Dat Steppers/Urban Swing Dance Institute stands out from other dance studios in the region for several key reasons. Our unique focus on cultural preservation and community-building, combined with a variety of class options, creates an experience that is both educational and deeply personal. Here are some of our highlights:

• Mission-Driven Approach: Our core mission of "social dancing for social change" is what truly sets us apart. We use dance as a vehicle for community empowerment and cultural preservation, ensuring that every student's journey is a part of something bigger than themselves.
• Legacy and Preservation: We are dedicated to preserving the historical legacy of jazz and urban swing dance. By learning with us, you are helping to keep these essential American art forms alive, connecting with a rich past that originated in places like Congo Square.
• Flexible Class Formats: We understand that modern life requires flexibility. That’s why we offer both onsite classes for a traditional studio experience and livestream classes for the convenience of learning from home. This blend of options ensures that everyone can find a way to participate, no matter their schedule.
• A Focus on Community: Who Dat Steppers is more than a business; it's a tight-knit community. Our group classes and social dance events are a fantastic way to meet new people, make friends, and become part of a supportive network of fellow dancers.
• Expert and Personalized Instruction: Our instructors are skilled not only in dance but also in teaching. Whether you're in a private class receiving one-on-one attention or in a group setting, you'll benefit from expert guidance that is tailored to help you succeed.

Ready to get started? We’re excited to welcome you to the Who Dat Steppers family. For any questions, class schedules, or to sign up for a lesson, please use the contact information below:

Address: 1995 Gentilly Blvd Suite C-6, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA

Phone: (504) 564-6941

Choosing to dance with Who Dat Steppers/Urban Swing Dance Institute is choosing to engage with a cultural institution that values more than just technical proficiency. We are a unique blend of a professional dance school and a passionate community hub. The value of our classes goes beyond learning steps and counts; it extends to understanding the historical significance of the dance, connecting with others, and contributing to the vibrant cultural fabric of New Orleans. Unlike many other studios, our focus on urban swing dance offers a specialized and authentic experience that is hard to find anywhere else.

Our commitment to "social dancing for social change" is a powerful reason to choose us. When you become a student, you are directly supporting an organization dedicated to empowering the community and preserving a vital piece of African American and New Orleans history. This is an opportunity to do something good for yourself—by learning to dance and staying active—and for your community. The flexibility of our class offerings, from private lessons to online streaming, ensures that we can accommodate a wide range of needs, making it easy to fit dancing into your life. Whether you are seeking a new hobby, a way to stay active, or a deeper connection to New Orleans' rich cultural heritage, Who Dat Steppers is the perfect place for you. Come join us and discover the joy of urban swing dance in the city where it all began.

Who Dat Steppers (WDS) of New Orleans, LA (NOLA), LLC, dba, Urban Swing Dance Institute (USDI)

1995 Gentilly Blvd Suite C-6, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA