The best way to start learning to dance is with what we call an Introductory Session at R&J Ballroom in Canton, Ohio.
This session is designed specifically for brand-new dancers — no experience required and no partner needed. You’ll meet one-on-one with one of our instructors in a relaxed, welcoming environment and be gently introduced to partner dancing at a pace that feels comfortable.
During your Introductory Session, our instructors have three main goals:
If you’d like to go ahead and schedule your Introductory Session, you can do so by clicking the link below.
If you still have questions, keep reading — we’ll walk you through everything step by step.

Please reach us at info@startdancing.org if you cannot find an answer to your question.
No — you do not need a partner to get started. Many of our students begin on their own, and we’ll help you navigate partner dancing comfortably from day one.
Not at all. Most of our students start with zero prior dance experience. Our instructors specialize in teaching beginners and will guide you step by step at a pace that feels comfortable.
Comfortable clothes you can move in are perfect. For shoes, wear something secure on your feet — with a smooth sole on the bottom of the shoe. You don’t need special dance shoes to start.
Absolutely not. We teach adults of all ages, and many students start later in life. Dance is a skill — not an age-based ability — and progress comes from consistency, not youth.
That’s completely normal — and expected. Trying something new can feel uncomfortable at first, but our instructors create a welcoming, supportive environment where mistakes are part of the learning process. You won’t be alone in feeling that way.
After your Introductory Session, your instructor will recommend options that fit your goals, schedule, and budget. There’s no pressure — you decide what feels right for you.
There are three different methods of dance education: Private Lessons, Group Courses, Dance Parties
We believe it is important that each student experience all three methods because each offer different benefits! Most students will favor one method at first, however, as you continue to learn, you will find that fluctuating your method of training based on your interest and focus will be the best choice of action.
Take a moment to read the benefits of each of the methods, or as we will often refer to them... the Three Pillars of Learning.

Private lessons give the individual or couple the full attention of the instructor. This allows the lesson to be customized around the student’s interests AND speeds up the learning process.

During group courses instructors will transition from teaching the group to walking around giving individual attention to each student. This is a great segue to practicing and dancing outside of the studio. It allows students to practice their dancing on their own while having a guide close by in case they run into any issues.

Dance parties at the studio give students a chance to cut loose and put their training to use in a comfortable environment. Share the dance floor with other students who are working on improving their dancing skills just like you are!
If you would like to meet with one of our instructors for an Introductory Session, you can click HERE and contact us to schedule your session OR if you can't wait to get started, you can purchase our Introductory Package which includes two private lessons, one four-week group course, and one dance party for a single or couple.