Business Details
Learn to Dance with Confidence in Oakland, CA
Steps On Toes has been transforming individuals with two-left-feet into confident dancers for over 39 years. Founded by LaurieAnn Lepoff, our studio specializes in personalized dance instruction tailored to overcome physical and psychological barriers to learning. With expertise in wedding dances, swing, ballroom, and social styles, we combine decades of teaching experience with a deep understanding of movement psychology.Our approach emphasizes mental preparation alongside physical technique, helping students master partner dynamics and musicality. Recognized as one of Oakland's highest-rated dance studios, we pride ourselves on making dance accessible to everyone, regardless of prior experience. Our legacy includes collaborations with legendary dancers like Frankie Manning, ensuring our methods remain at the forefront of dance education.
Services
Wedding Dance Lessons
Swing Dance Instruction
Ballroom Dance Training
Cajun Zydeco Classes
Social Club Dancing
Salsa Dance Workshops
Country Western Lessons
Highlights and features
- 39 years of specialized dance instruction experience
- Personalized approach for overcoming learning barriers
- Proven success with wedding dance preparation
- Combines dance technique with movement psychology
- Recognized as Oakland's top-rated dance studio
What people say
Unforgettable experience
Knows her stuff
Brilliant teacher
Mental preparation techniques
Customized approach
Services
Wedding Dance Lessons
Custom-designed wedding dance programs transform couples into confident partners for their special day. Our Oakland studio specializes in creating memorable first dances tailored to each couple's unique style and comfort level. With personalized instruction focusing on both technical skill and emotional connection, we ensure your wedding dance becomes a highlight of your celebration.
Swing Dance Instruction
Comprehensive swing dance training covering Lindy Hop, Jitterbug, and West Coast Swing styles. Our Oakland-based instructors break down complex movements into learnable steps while maintaining the dance's energetic essence. Students gain confidence in social dance settings through structured lessons that emphasize rhythm and partner connection.
Ballroom Dance Training
Master traditional ballroom styles including Waltz, Foxtrot, and Tango through our structured curriculum. Designed for both social and competitive dancers, our Oakland studio teaches proper technique while making learning enjoyable. Students develop grace, posture, and partner coordination in a supportive environment.
Cajun Zydeco Classes
Energetic Cajun and Zydeco dance instruction brings Louisiana's vibrant culture to Oakland. Our lessons focus on the joyful, partner-friendly movements that characterize these social dance styles. Students learn to connect with music and partners while experiencing the cultural roots of these dynamic dance forms.
Social Club Dancing
Social dance programs prepare students for real-world dance environments with practical partner skills. Our Oakland studio teaches adaptable techniques applicable to various social settings. Focusing on comfort and connection, these lessons help dancers navigate different partners and music styles with confidence.
People
LaurieAnn Lepoff
Owner & Lead Instructor
With 39 years of dance instruction experience, LaurieAnn specializes in teaching beginners through psychological and physical barriers. Former couples counselor and self-defense instructor who studied with Frankie Manning, combining dance expertise with movement psychology to create accessible learning methods.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer wedding dances, swing (Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing), ballroom (Waltz, Tango), Cajun Zydeco, salsa, and country western lessons in Oakland.
Do you teach complete beginners?
Yes! Our specialty is transforming beginners with 'two-left-feet' into confident dancers through personalized instruction that addresses both physical and mental learning barriers.
How do wedding dance lessons work?
We create custom wedding dance programs tailored to each couple's song, style, and comfort level, focusing on making your first dance memorable and stress-free.
What makes your teaching approach unique?
Combining dance expertise with psychological insights from our background in counseling and self-defense instruction, we develop personalized learning strategies that address both physical and mental barriers to dancing.
Are lessons available for experienced dancers?
Yes, we help experienced dancers refine technique, learn new styles, and improve partner connection through advanced instruction focused on musicality and performance skills.
How long does it take to learn?
Most students achieve basic proficiency in 6-8 lessons, with wedding couples typically starting 3-6 months before their event for optimal preparation.
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