Ballroom, Rhythm & Latin: Partner Dance for Actors

Until we are able to resume classes at the Studio, this workshop will be held online via Zoom Conferencing:

Ballroom, Rhythm & Latin: Partner Dance for Actors with Peter Jones | April 4, 2020 – May 2, 2020 | Saturdays, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Presented by Peter Jones

In this online workshop, learn the fundamental elements of the most common and useful Ballroom, Rhythm and Latin dances: when the casting call specifies, you need to know how to do them. One challenge will be how to learn without direct physical contact: we’ll learn the choreography of different ballroom and partner dance’s basic steps, their rhythm patterns, plus styling options and a bit of their histories. The Waltzes and Foxtrot, Latin dances, Swing, and Tango.

Tailored to actors and the rigor demanded by an actor’s need to learn quickly, learn how to communicate clearly to a partner: how to “Lead” and “Follow,” the foundation of partner dancing, but importantly, learn the steps themselves, not assuming your partner’s expertise. Shows often require a working knowledge of the Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Swing and Latin dances and if you don’t know them… you won’t be cast. Be ready when the world comes back!

While certainly great for couples learning together (if an option), individual students will be coached on how to communicate physically, how the leader guides and the follower responds. We’ll focus primarily simply on how to do specific steps, with ease and confidence, and how they match the music.

Though geared towards performers, this workshop is suitable for those at any level of experience and is open to actors and non-actors alike, a useful performance and social “Life” skill.

Preferably wear shoes with smooth/leather (non-rubber) soles or character shoes.


Peter Jones has performed thousands of times in NYC, regionally, in London and Dublin and done dozens of National and regional tours. Faculty of the Michael Chekhov Studio, Broadway Theater Institute, and The Theater Workshop, faculty and Board of Director of the Manhattan Dance/Theater and Musical Mondays Theater Workshop. He has taught at Manhattan Dance, Fred Astaire and Pierre Dulaine’s dance studio, and has written, performed and directed off-Broadway NYC and regional shows, along with his own Shakespearean adaptations. Founder: BallroomNYC…read more


Recommended for pairing with Movement for Actors with Michelle “Mitch” Uranowitz. Purchase both together for $15 off.