Business Details
Philadelphia's Official Dance Instruction Experts
Founded by Audrey and June Donaldson, Dancing in Philly has become a cornerstone of dance education in the Philadelphia region. With over two decades of combined teaching experience, the Donaldsons specialize in preserving and promoting the Philly Bop as the city's official dance while offering instruction in Cha-Cha, Smooth Style Ballrooming, Chicago Stepping, and Line Dancing. Their approach combines technical precision with cultural preservation, having taught thousands through local classes, national workshops, and digital platforms. Certified in Smooth Style Ballrooming by Calvin and Jacalyn Siberts, they maintain rigorous instructional standards while making dance accessible to all ages and skill levels. The couple's expertise extends to event coordination, wedding choreography, and DJ services, creating immersive dance experiences that foster community connections. Their instructional materials, including the book 'How to Dance: Philly Bop - A 6 Count Dance,' demonstrate their commitment to dance education beyond the classroom.Through partnerships with organizations like United We Dance and appearances in media outlets such as FOX 29 and WXPN, they've elevated Philadelphia's dance heritage on national and international stages. Their teaching philosophy emphasizes dance as both physical exercise and emotional expression, creating inclusive environments where students overcome self-doubt and build social confidence. With a presence at festivals, conventions, and special events across six states, Dancing in Philly continues expanding its impact while maintaining local roots. Their recognition in Tiona Nekkia McClodden's art installation at The Shed in Brooklyn underscores their cultural significance in preserving urban dance traditions.
Services
Philly Bop Instruction
Cha-Cha Classes
Ballrooming Lessons
Wedding Choreography
Line Dance Events
Highlights and features
- Certified instructors with 20+ years teaching experience
- Specialists in Philadelphia's official dance heritage preservation
- Offer 5+ dance styles including Philly Bop and Cha-Cha
- Proven success teaching thousands through diverse learning methods
- Recognized by media outlets and cultural institutions nationwide
Associations and certifications
- Smooth Style Ballrooming Certification
What people say
Perfect fit for wedding instruction
Improved dancing significantly
Gift of dance for events
State-of-the-art information highway
Evangelists for Philly Bop
Services
Philly Bop Instruction
Learn Philadelphia's official dance through structured lessons combining technical instruction with cultural context. Our certified instructors teach proper form, rhythm patterns, and historical significance while adapting to individual learning styles. Students gain confidence through progressive skill development applicable to social dancing and special events.
Wedding Choreography
Create memorable first dances with customized choreography for weddings and special occasions. We specialize in adapting various dance styles to personal music selections while accommodating mixed-skill groups. Our instruction includes rehearsal support and performance coaching to ensure stress-free execution on your special day.
Smooth Style Ballrooming
Master certified Smooth Style Ballrooming techniques through individualized instruction. This elegant partner dance focuses on fluid movement patterns, posture, and connection between partners. Our curriculum builds from basic steps to complex combinations suitable for both recreational dancers and competition preparation.
Line Dance Events
Participate in social line dance experiences featuring classic and contemporary choreography. Our events cater to all skill levels with progressive instruction followed by music-driven dancing. Regular sessions maintain community connections while introducing participants to evolving line dance trends.
Dance Event Coordination
Leverage our expertise for successful dance-focused events including festivals, conventions, and private parties. Services combine dance instruction, DJ support, and logistical planning to create engaging experiences. We provide equipment, choreography, and on-site coordination for seamless execution.
People
Audrey Donaldson
Co-Founder/Instructor
Ed.D-certified dance educator with 20+ years experience preserving Philly Bop heritage. Specializes in adaptive teaching methods for diverse learners while maintaining technical dance standards through instructional materials and public demonstrations.
June Donaldson
Co-Founder/Instructor
Philly Bop and Cha-Cha specialist since 2003 with expertise in Smooth Style Ballrooming certification. Focuses on connecting dance fundamentals to personal expression through progressive skill development in both private and group settings.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We specialize in Philly Bop, Cha-Cha, Smooth Style Ballrooming, Chicago Stepping, and Line Dancing for all skill levels.
Do you offer wedding dance instruction?
Yes, we provide customized wedding choreography including first dances, bridal party routines, and family dances with rehearsal support.
Are classes available for beginners?
Absolutely! Our progressive curriculum starts with basic steps and builds confidence through structured lessons at your pace.
Do you travel for events?
We regularly teach and perform at dance conventions and special events across six states as part of our preservation mission.
How do I schedule lessons?
Contact us via phone or email to arrange private sessions or join our group classes held by appointment.
What makes you unique?
As certified instructors preserving Philadelphia's official dance, we combine technical expertise with cultural heritage education.
