From first steps to the Fairmont: How one Richmond studio is elevating dance in Vancouver

Ever dreamed of dressing up for a grand ballroom and dancing the night away? For many, it feels like a scene straight out of a movie — elegant gowns, polished floors, and music echoing through the halls. In Richmond, however, that dream is quietly becoming a reality for dancers of all ages.

A grand stage, just months after opening

The Academy of Ballroom Arts (ABA), a newly opened dance studio specializing in American Smooth and Rhythm, is already making waves in Vancouver’s dance scene. Just two and a half months after opening, their students performed at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver — one of the city’s most iconic venues.

For many dancers, performing in a venue like the Fairmont can take years of training, so how did a brand-new studio make it happen so quickly?

A different approach to learning dance

Academy of Ballroom Arts

According to the team at the Academy of Ballroom Arts, the answer lies in their structured, high-level approach to dance training.

Rather than relying on drop-in classes, the studio guides students through a personalized learning journey that combines private lessons, group classes, and social dance parties.

Private lessons provide focused coaching, while group classes and parties help students build technique, musicality, and confidence on the dance floor.

“Dance has the power to bring people together in a way few activities do,” says Krista, the school principal. “We want to create opportunities for dancers of all ages to grow, perform, and experience that.”

The Academy of Ballroom Arts offers Social, Youth and Competitive programs, welcoming dancers at every stage — whether someone is trying dance for the first time, looking for a fun social activity, or training to compete.

Putting the spotlight on American Smooth & Rhythm

Academy of Ballroom Arts

At the heart of the Academy of Ballroom Arts’ training is American Smooth and Rhythm.

Unlike more standardized ballroom dances, these styles encourage dancers to move beyond fixed patterns — allowing them to interpret the music, connect with their partner, and bring more personality to the floor.

Students have the chance to explore more than 20 dance styles, including popular favourites such as Tango, Salsa, Bachata, and West Coast Swing.

The studio aims to raise the standard for American Smooth and Rhythm in Vancouver and create more opportunities for dancers to perform, develop their skills, and experience partner dancing at a higher level.

Why dance matters

Academy of Ballroom Arts

While the elegance and excitement of dancing draw many people in, the benefits of dance extend far beyond the dance floor. 

Dance strengthens coordination, balance, and posture while providing meaningful physical activity. At the same time, it engages the body and the mind in ways few activities do – dancers are constantly listening to the music, remembering patterns, and coordinating with a partner. This combination of movement, memory, and social interaction has been shown to support cognitive function over time.

For children, dance can be especially powerful. As they learn new skills, they develop discipline, self-expression, and a sense of belonging — qualities that support their growth both inside and outside the studio.

Taking the first step

Academy of Ballroom Arts

For those curious about trying it themselves, the Academy of Ballroom Arts offers a $99 introductory program, giving new students the chance to experience private lessons, group classes, and social parties.

For many students, what begins as a first lesson quickly becomes something more – a new skill, a new community, and sometimes even the opportunity to perform under the chandeliers of a grand dance floor like the Fairmont.

And if the studio’s first few months are any indication, the Academy of Ballroom Arts is only just getting started.

To learn more about the studio or book your first lesson, visit the Academy of Ballroom Arts website.