Business Details
Your Premier Dance Destination in Madison Heights
At Evoke Ballroom, we believe dance transcends mere movementit is a universal language that unites people across cultures and abilities. Founded by Jeffrey Rakowski, our studio was born from a passion for dance and a desire to reignite its role in social connection. With over 15 years of experience teaching diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities and special needs, we specialize in creating inclusive, joyful environments where students of all ages and skill levels thrive.Our mission is to make partner dancing accessible and popular again, offering personalized instruction in styles ranging from ballroom to Latin. Whether preparing for a wedding, competition, or simply seeking a fun date night activity, our clients benefit from tailored lessons that emphasize confidence, creativity, and community. We pride ourselves on fostering a non-judgmental space where every individual can discover their inner dancer and build lasting memories.
Services
Private Lessons
Wedding Dances
Group Classes
Competition Training
Gift Certificates
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized dance instruction tailored to individual goals and abilities.
- Our instructors have 15+ years of experience teaching diverse populations, including special needs.
- We specialize in wedding choreography with packages including music editing and practice videos.
- No partner, experience, or commitment required for any class or lesson.
- We provide inclusive dance experiences for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
What people say
Patient, kind teachers
Perfect wedding first dance
Inclusive for all abilities
Stress-relief through dance
Fun date night option
Services
Private Lessons
Customized dance sessions for individuals or couples focusing on specific goals. Our instructors adapt to your pace and preferences, whether learning basics or refining advanced techniques. Ideal for building confidence and mastering personalized routines.
Wedding Dances
Professional choreography and rehearsal for your wedding's first dance. Packages include music editing, practice videos, and multiple sessions to create a memorable performance. No prior experience required for this stress-free preparation.
Group Classes
Fun, interactive lessons for groups of three or more in styles like ballroom, Latin, and swing. Designed for all skill levels, these classes foster camaraderie while teaching practical dance skills applicable to social events and special occasions.
Competition Training
Specialized coaching for dancers aiming to compete in local and national events. Our instructors provide technical refinement, routine development, and performance strategies to help competitors achieve their highest potential in various dance categories.
Gift Certificates
Flexible gift options for dance lessons or packages redeemable at Evoke Ballroom. Perfect for special occasions, these certificates offer recipients the opportunity to learn new skills, enjoy date nights, or prepare for milestone events like weddings.
People
Jeffrey Rakowski
Owner/Instructor
Jeffrey Rakowski founded Evoke Ballroom after 15 years of teaching dance globally and helping diverse populations through movement. His passion for partner dancing and inclusive instruction drives the studio's mission to make dance accessible to all.
Questions
Do I need prior dance experience to take lessons?
No experience is required. Our instructors welcome absolute beginners and adapt lessons to individual comfort levels and goals.
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer instruction in ballroom, Latin, swing, country, and social dance styles including waltz, tango, salsa, and cha-cha.
Can you help with wedding dance preparation?
Yes! Our wedding packages include choreography, music editing, and practice videos to create a memorable first dance experience.
Are group lessons available?
Yes, we offer group classes for kids, adults, and private groups with no partner or commitment required.
Do you teach special needs students?
Yes, we specialize in inclusive dance instruction for individuals with physical and developmental disabilities across all age groups.
What should I wear to my first lesson?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows movement. For footwear, choose shoes with smooth soles that stay securely on your feet.
Reviews (5)
Heather Yter
Oct 18, 2020
Report
We went to Jeffrey for lessons for our first wedding dance! We both had zero experience, but that didn’t faze Jeffrey. Jeffrey was very kind and patient with us. We enjoyed every lesson and enjoyed our first dance even more. Our guests all thought it was beautiful. If you need dance lessons, Jeffrey is the guy to see.
Rain Arms - Smith
May 23, 2019
Report
We highly recommend Evoke Ballroom. My husband and I wanted to learn Ballroom dancing and wanted someone who was patient because we had zero experience. A friend referred us to Jeff. We are so blessed to have Jeff as our teacher. He is an amazing teacher who has taught us so much and has made each session a fun time. We always look forward to our next session. Thank You Jeff.
Jen Siladke
Jan 23, 2019
Report
I highly recommend kid ballroom classes at Evoke! I love that my 10 year old daughter is learning the type of dances that she can use throughout her life. Jeff Rakowski and Nadiia are amazing teachers! They are both patient, kind and lots of fun! In my daughter's words " Coming here calms me after a hard day at school!"
Theresa Moehlig
Jan 23, 2019
Report
We highly recommend Evoke Ballroom. We came to Jeff Rakowski with absolutely no dance experience at all. We wanted to learn "some" basic ballroom so that we could dance when we go on cruises and at social gatherings. Well, the rest is history. We have learned so much from Jeff and have so much fun taking lessons. Jeff is so patient and has such a great sense of humor. Anyone who wants to start from square one or who wants to enhance their dance experience should call Evoke to start their lessons. You will be happy that you did. I promise!!!
Kelly Hetner
Sep 29, 2018
Report
With the help of Jeffrey, I completed my very first showcase dance at the Motown Showdown and won first place! Jeffrey is an awesome teacher!
