Dirty Dancing: a guide to dance schools in Warsaw

Dirty Dancing: a guide to dance schools in Warsaw

April 10, 2025

Since the release of the cult film 'Dirty Dancing' in 1987, which grossed more than $214 million worldwide, dancing has become a dream for many. The iconic final scene with Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey has inspired generations to learn new steps. As the cultural capital of Poland, Warsaw offers a rich selection of dance schools where you can feel like the characters in the film, learn sensual moves and experience your own dance adventure. Whether you're preparing for your first dance at a wedding or just want to try something new, Warsaw's dance schools have something for everyone.

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Dance schools in the west of Warsaw

Western Warsaw is a true mecca for dance lovers, offering a variety of schools with a wide range of classes. One such place is The BEAT Dance School run by Paulina (Pola) Gaweł, located at 11B Jana Kazimierza Street. This place stands out for its modern approach to dance instruction, combining classical techniques with modern trends. The school specializes in dance styles inspired by the 80's and 90's, which perfectly fits the 'Dirty Dancing' vibe.

The BEAT offers classes at various levels, so both beginners and experienced dancers will find something for themselves. A unique asset of the school is its intimate atmosphere, which promotes an individual approach to each participant. The instructors pay special attention to technique and expression, allowing students not only to master the steps, but also to express their emotions through dance - exactly as Baby and Johnny did in the cult movie.

Prices for classes at The BEAT can be described as average, making them accessible to a wide audience. The school also holds regular themed workshops, including classes inspired by scenes from 'Dirty Dancing,' which are extremely popular with fans of the film. Spacious rooms with mirrors and a professional sound system create ideal conditions for learning to dance.

Slightly further west, at 46 1 Sierpnia Street, is the AT Dance School. This is a place with traditions, operating for more than a decade, which has won recognition among both amateurs and professionals. AT Dance is distinguished by the versatility of the dance styles on offer - from classic ballroom dance, to latino, to modern dance forms.

The school is famous for its professional approach to teaching first dances to young couples. AT Dance instructors are able to create unique choreography, tailored to clients' skills and expectations. Interestingly, the school also organizes themed dance evenings, during which you can practice the skills you've learned in a real dance party atmosphere.

AT Dance also offers special programs for solo travelers who want to meet new people through dance. This is a great option for those who are new to the city or looking for company to learn together. Prices at AT Dance vary depending on the type of course, but can generally be described as medium to high, reflecting the quality of services offered.

Both schools in the west of Warsaw share a passion for dance and a professional approach to teaching, but differ in style and atmosphere. The BEAT focuses on modernity and an individual approach, while AT Dance relies on tradition and proven teaching methods. The choice between the two depends mainly on personal preferences and dance goals.

The center and south of Warsaw - the dancing heart of the capital

Warsaw's city center is teeming with dance venues, offering schools of diverse character and specialization. One of the most recognizable places is the Riviera Dance School, located at 12 Ludwika Waryñskiego St. This school, operating in the heart of the city, refers by its name to the resort where the film 'Dirty Dancing' was set, which is no coincidence. Riviera has been cultivating the traditions of ballroom dancing for years, with a particular focus on mambo and rumba - styles that were central to the 1987 cult film.

Riviera is distinguished by its elegant interior design, which takes participants back to the atmosphere of the 1960s, when 'Dirty Dancing' was set. The school offers courses at various levels, but its real specialty is classes for couples who want to prepare an unforgettable first wedding dance. Riviera's instructors are renowned for their ability to create choreography that is both impressive and manageable for amateurs.

Prices at Riviera can be described as high, but the quality of the services offered fully justifies the price. The school regularly organizes dance shows of its students, which is an additional motivation to improve their skills. It's worth mentioning that Riviera was one of the locations where scenes for a Polish dance-themed film took place, which adds to its prestige and aura of film glamour.

On the south side of the Vistula River, at 72 Stany Stanya Avenue in the Wiatraczna Gallery, there is an intimate school called Step by Step with Sandra, specializing in first dance lessons. Born out of a passion for dance and a desire to share it with others, this place offers a personalized approach to each couple. Sandra, the school's founder, has had numerous successes in ballroom dance tournaments, which translates into the professionalism of her classes.

Step by Step is distinguished by its flexible class schedule, tailored to the needs of its clients, which is especially important for busy couples preparing for a wedding. The school also offers a lesson recording service, so students can practice at home, watching their progress. Prices at Step by Step can be described as average, and the school often offers promotions for new customers.

Interestingly, Sandra, the school's owner, holds an annual Valentine's Day workshop inspired by 'Dirty Dancing,' where couples can learn the iconic choreography from the film's final scene. These workshops are extremely popular and are often sold out months in advance.

Comparing the two schools, Riviera offers a more traditional approach to learning dance in an elegant setting, while Step by Step focuses on personalization and flexibility. Riviera boasts more experience and prestige, while Step by Step offers a more intimate and friendly environment, ideal for those who feel jitters before dancing in a larger group. The choice between these schools depends mainly on personal preference, budget and whether one is looking for a more traditional or modern approach to dance instruction.

Dance on the right bank of the Vistula River

The right bank of the Vistula River, once considered a less attractive part of Warsaw, has been experiencing a true cultural renaissance in recent years, and with it, the dance scene is also flourishing. One of the most interesting venues in this part of the city is the Polish Club Dance School, located at 646 Wal Miedzeszynski St. This school, founded by former Polish ballroom dance champions, combines a traditional approach to dance instruction with modern teaching methods.

Polish Club stands out from other dance schools in Warsaw for its holistic approach to learning. In addition to standard dance classes, the school also offers workshops in dance history, which allows students to better understand the cultural context of different dance styles. This is of particular interest to 'Dirty Dancing' fans, who can learn more about the social significance of dance in the 1960s, when the film was set.

The school has spacious practice rooms with professional sound and lighting, creating an ideal learning environment. Polish Club organizes regular dance practices, during which students can practice the skills they have learned in an informal atmosphere. Prices at Polish Club can be described as average to high, but the school offers a variety of class packages, so everyone can find an option that fits their budget.

An interesting fact about Polish Club is that the school collaborates with Warsaw theaters on musical productions, and its instructors often act as choreographic consultants for various artistic projects. As a result, students sometimes have the opportunity to take part in professional productions as background dancers, which is an unforgettable experience.

The Polish Club is also famous for organizing themed dance balls, including an annual ball inspired by the 1980s and 1990s, which draws on the music from the film 'Dirty Dancing.' The event attracts dance enthusiasts from all over Warsaw and provides a great opportunity to showcase their skills in a stylish setting.

If we compare all the described dance schools in Warsaw, each has its own unique strengths. The BEAT in the west of the city offers a modern approach and an intimate atmosphere, AT Dance stands out for its versatility and tradition, Riviera in the center attracts with its elegant decor and cinematic atmosphere, Step by Step focuses on personalization and flexibility, and Polish Club on the right bank of the Vistula combines tradition with cultural education.

Choosing the right dance school depends on many factors: location, budget, preferred dance style and personal goals. For those preparing for their first dance, the best options will be Step by Step with Sandra or Riviera, which specialize in this type of choreography. Fans of the 'Dirty Dancing' vibe should consider Riviera or Polish Club, which organize themed events that relate to the film. On the other hand, those looking for all-around dance development will find something for themselves at AT Dance or The BEAT.

Regardless of your choice, all the described dance schools in Warsaw offer a professional approach to teaching and a passionate adventure in dance. As Johnny Castle from 'Dirty Dancing' used to say: 'Dancing isn't just about body movement, it's about expressing yourself'. - and Warsaw dance schools offer the opportunity to discover this truth for yourself.

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