Business Details
9 Years
experience
Your Premier Destination for Ballroom Dance in Niskayuna & Saratoga Springs
Dance Fire Studio was founded in 2017 by Natalia O'Connor Vlad and Florin Vlad, two world-renowned ballroom dancers with extensive competitive and instructional experience. Our mission is to empower lives and strengthen communities through the art of dance. With locations in Niskayuna and Saratoga Springs, New York, we offer state-of-the-art facilities featuring floating wooden floors, climate control, and professional sound systems. Our team of certified instructors specializes in ballroom, Latin, and social dance styles, catering to students of all levels from beginners to competitive professionals.We emphasize technical fundamentals while fostering a welcoming environment for personal growth, community engagement, and physical fitness. Our comprehensive offerings include private lessons, group classes, wedding dance preparation, venue rentals, and boutique dance tours. Since opening, we have built a reputation for excellence through personalized instruction, innovative programs, and a commitment to making dance accessible to all.
Services
Private Dance Lessons
Wedding Dance Classes
Kids Dance Classes
Venue Rentals
Group Dance Classes
Dance Store Sales
Dance Tours
Social Dance Membership
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- Our co-owners are US National Ballroom Champions with 15+ years of competitive dance experience
- Dual locations featuring floating wooden floors, climate control, and professional sound systems
- Personalized instruction for all skill levels from absolute beginners to competitive dancers
- Specialized wedding dance choreography with proven track record of standing ovations
- Venue rentals include professional equipment and preferred vendor partnerships
What people say
Accelerated my dancing
Made our night special
Patient and knowledgeable instructors
Helped take dancing to new level
Confidence-building lessons
Services
Private Dance Lessons
Customized one-on-one dance instruction for all skill levels. Our certified instructors provide personalized feedback and structured lesson plans to develop proper technique and build confidence. Students benefit from flexible scheduling options at two convenient locations with state-of-the-art facilities.
Wedding Dance Lessons
Specialized wedding dance preparation with experienced choreographers. Our instructors create customized routines that showcase each couple's unique style while ensuring comfort and confidence. Most couples achieve performance-ready status within 3-5 months of weekly lessons.
Venue Rentals
Versatile event spaces available for rent at both locations. Niskayuna offers 4,400 sq ft with 75-person capacity, while Saratoga Springs provides 4,100 sq ft for up to 50 guests. Both include professional sound systems, climate control, and optional dance entertainment packages.
Kids Dance Classes
Age-appropriate dance instruction for children starting at age 2. Our curriculum develops foundational dance skills while promoting physical fitness, coordination, and self-confidence. Classes emphasize fun while preparing students for potential competitive dance pathways.
Group Dance Classes
Scheduled group lessons covering multiple dance styles from ballroom to Latin. Classes cater to both singles and couples seeking social dance skills in a group environment. Participants benefit from structured learning combined with social interaction opportunities.
People
Natalia O'Connor Vlad
Co-Owner & Dance Master
US National RS Professional Ballroom Champion with 20+ years competitive experience. Holds BA in Psychology with focus on behavioral science. Co-founded Dance Fire Studio in 2017 after successful international teaching career.
Florin Vlad
Co-Owner & Dance Master
World champion competitive dancer with 15+ years professional experience. Former world championship semifinalist and NDCA member. Brings business management expertise from prior civil engineering venture while maintaining active competitive career.
Celene Parragh
Dance Master
Certified instructor with international competition experience. Transitioned from American-style teaching to professional Latin competition. Holds Vice Championship title in Portugal while maintaining active teaching schedule at both studio locations.
Lilian Odom
Dance Master
Classically trained ballet dancer with extensive competition background. Former Kansas City Ballet performer with expertise in wedding dance choreography. Brings structured teaching approach developed through intensive training at major dance institutions.
Thomas Russell
Dance Master
USA Dance National Champion with 15 years teaching experience. Active community participant in Capital District dance events. Specializes in making ballroom dance accessible to adults through relaxed, engaging instruction style while maintaining technical accuracy.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer ballroom, Latin, swing, salsa, bachata, and contemporary styles at both locations.
Are there dance classes for beginners?
Yes! We offer introductory classes and private lessons for absolute beginners with no prior experience needed.
Can I rent your space for a private event?
Our studios accommodate events up to 75 guests with full rental packages including sound equipment and optional dance entertainment.
Do you offer wedding dance lessons?
Yes, our specialized wedding packages include choreography development and performance coaching for first dances.
What are your studio hours?
Niskayuna: Mon-Thu 12pm-9pm, Fri 12pm-8pm, Sat 9am-2pm. Saratoga: Tues & Thu 1pm-9pm by appointment.
Is parking available at your locations?
Both locations have ample parking with Niskayuna offering direct lot access and Saratoga providing validated parking options.
