Business Details
24 Years
experience
Your Premier Ballroom Dance Studio in Virginia Beach
Established in 2002, DanceSportVA has grown into Hampton Roads' premier ballroom dance studio through strategic ownership transitions and continuous innovation. Our founders Betty Lu and Clive Stevens laid the foundation for quality instruction, which was expanded upon by Bob and Maria of DanceSport LLC in 2016 through facility upgrades and theatrical productions. Since 2025, Sara Austin and John Riffle have cultivated an independent instructor network spanning 36 dance styles, creating Virginia's first Art Instruction ABC-licensed studio. Our 5,000-square-foot facility hosts the annual Virginia Beach Dance Challenge - the region's largest competition with nearly 1,000 entries. We maintain rigorous industry standards through affiliations with ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC while offering flexible learning formats including in-person, virtual, and hybrid classes.Our staff's collective expertise spans decades of competitive dance experience, evidenced by our exclusive Broadway-style theatrical productions and nationally recognized venue rental spaces. We demonstrate authoritativeness through consistent 'Best of Virginia Beach' awards and transparent operations that include state-of-the-art facilities with raised sprung floors, modern lighting systems, and climate-controlled environments. Our commitment to trustworthiness is reflected in our 20-year track record of customer satisfaction, documented through positive venue rental testimonials and repeat competition participants.
Services
Private Dance Lessons
Group Dance Classes
Dance Competitions
Venue Rental
Social Dance Events
Performance Opportunities
Wedding Venue
Birthday Parties
Baby Showers
Dance Club Events
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We offer instruction in 36 dance styles from independent Hampton Roads instructors
- Our facility features Virginia's first Art Instruction ABC-licensed dance theater
- We host the region's largest ballroom competition with nearly 1,000 annual entries
- Our 5,000-square-foot space includes three specialized dance environments
- We maintain industry standards through affiliations with major performing rights organizations
Associations and certifications
- ASCAP
- BMI
- SESAC
- Virginia ABC Licensed
What people say
Amazing venue
Professional staff
Modern amenities
Successful celebrations
Exceptional organization
Services
Private Dance Lessons
Personalized dance instruction tailored to individual learning styles and skill levels. Our qualified instructors provide focused attention to develop proper technique, improve performance quality, and build confidence on the dance floor. Students benefit from customized lesson plans that adapt to their specific goals and progress at their own pace.
Group Dance Classes
Affordable group instruction available for all experience levels at $15 per session. Classes cover fundamental techniques and advanced patterns across 36 dance styles, from traditional ballroom to contemporary club formats. Participants enjoy social interaction while developing dance skills in structured, progressive learning environments.
Dance Competitions
Annual Virginia Beach Dance Challenge featuring Pro/Am and Am/Am divisions. Competitors gain valuable performance experience through judged events that track technical progress and artistic expression. The competition includes multiple categories accommodating various skill levels and dance styles.
Venue Rental
Versatile event spaces available for weddings, parties, and special occasions. Our 5,000-square-foot facility includes three distinct venues with sprung dance floors, modern lighting systems, and complete amenities. The space accommodates events from intimate gatherings to large celebrations with professional support services.
Social Dance Events
Weekly social dance events featuring multiple ballroom styles and rotating DJs. Attendees enjoy structured group lessons followed by open dance sessions with professional dance hosts ensuring inclusive participation. Events include themed nights covering Latin, swing, country, and club-style dance formats.
People
Sara Austin
Owner
Co-owner with extensive dance industry experience who revitalized the studio in 2025. Focuses on creating collaborative learning environments and expanding performance opportunities. Brings entrepreneurial vision to maintain Virginia Beach's premier dance destination.
John Riffle
Owner
Co-owner instrumental in establishing independent instructor network across Hampton Roads. Combines business acumen with dance expertise to enhance studio operations. Prioritizes facility upgrades and community engagement initiatives since 2025 acquisition.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer 36 styles including ballroom, Latin, swing, country, and club dances like Argentine Tango, Salsa, and West Coast Swing.
Do I need a partner for classes?
No partner required for group classes. Our instructors rotate partners during lessons to ensure all participants receive quality practice opportunities.
Can I rent your space for special events?
Yes! Our 5,000-square-foot facility includes three venues accommodating weddings, parties, and corporate events with capacity up to 350 guests.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! Participate in our annual showcase, theatrical productions, or compete in the Virginia Beach Dance Challenge with multiple divisions.
What makes you different from other studios?
We uniquely combine 36 dance styles, Virginia's first Art Instruction ABC license, and independent instructors from across Hampton Roads in a state-of-the-art facility.
How do I book dance lessons?
Contact us directly at 757-473-3267 or visit our website to schedule private lessons or register for group classes.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Iyana Dale
Oct 28, 2021
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Very nice quince/ reception/birthday space. Very friendly and accommodating..3 different rooms to choose from.
Joe Hertzler
Aug 05, 2021
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We've been going to DanceSportVA for about 5 years attending dance parties, group classes, showcases, and private lessons. It really is one of the best run studios in the area. The instructors are all top notch. The facilities are beautiful and spacious. And the dance floor is one of my favorites in the area.
Ann Bolen
Jan 31, 2021
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Best Groupon I've done in awhile. Super well organized, friendly and great instructor. Was uncertain with Covid-19, but it is well monitored and clean. If you have always wanted to learn to dance, try it!
Kaitlyn Morris
Jan 15, 2021
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The knowledge and level of professionalism from the instructors at this studio is unmatched. Kristina, the young woman who runs the front desk, brightens your day as soon as you see her smiling face greeting you no matter what kind of day youve had. The studio is extremely clean, and all of the proper covid safety precautions are strictly followed. I recommend this place to everyone I can, its always the best time during the lessons!
