Waterford Ballroom

I have been dancing since I was practically old enough to walk, and have been absolutely delighted with almost every dance I have set my feet to. In every city I've lived in, I've made it a point to find a dance studio to call home. Moving to Connecticut was no different, and now that my husband and I had a few lessons under our belt from pre-wedding prep, we had a newfound sense of confidence and excitement to restart lessons locally.

After asking around and sleuthing a bit on yelp, we decided on Waterford Ballroom for its proximity, and its varied classes from Mambo to Waltz. We were told that the introductory lesson was an hour long, and was free to prospective students, so we made the call and scheduled it right away. Located in a run down, tucked away commercial area in what I consider "downtown waterford," this is a convenient place for anyone to find, and we sauntered in with a blush of excitement.

We started introductions with our teacher Jessica, who speedily gave us a hi and threw us to the owner, who shuttled us to a back room office to write up paperwork (???). Basic questions on us and our skill level made sense, but the owner asked other questions and didn't really listen to the answers, which was very irritating to us both. After that, we moved to the dance floor and our teacher set to teach us the Waltz (which we both already knew). She seemed unhappy that we learned so quickly and moved to turning and moving faster than she had wanted, so she moved us to the owner again.

The owner wanted to test me on my skills, being the one with more dance experience, so he demanded a salsa. After yanking me around dispassionately, he remarked to my husband "You've riding quite a motorcycle, there", and then proceeded with more statements about my "speed" and how he needs to learn how to best "manage his bike around the corners as to not lose control." I was appalled at the tactless comments, especially coming from the owner, and being said to a prospective new student. He also showed us a move with the teacher, who he equally yanked around, and threw her aside with a statement of "you've been led." Mic drop.

After this cumulative...probably 13 minutes max of actual dancing, they moved us back again to the office, where the owner put us on the hard sell to purchase a package of lessons. It really was a seriously over-enthusiastic sell, especially with him knowing we were only going to remain in the area for a short time, and we explicitly told him we were interested in drop in lessons due to timing and work obligations.

Once we left, my husband and I talked about the experience, and both agreed we #1 didn't like the comments or attitude of the owner, #2 felt that our "free lesson" consisting of 13 minutes of dancing and 47 minutes of selling to us was obnoxious, and #3 even with our new student discount, cash discount, and military discount, these lessons were vastly overpriced and not worth it. We called to let them know we wouldn't be returning for a package of lessons, but might return for a drop in or "party night," but for nothing more. I would absolutely look elsewhere if I were staying in CT, because this ballroom is a disgrace, and not a place I would waste my time, nor my money.

I have to say I'm not much of a dancer having two very left feet but at the Waterford ballroom they are amazing! I've been to other studios before to see friends of mine dance and never really had any interest I had seen an ad for the ballroom and figured I'd give it a short. Honestly I have to say the teacher Alex I had was fabulous and very patient! He had me doing the waltz in 10 minutes! which was surprising to me because I always deemed myself unteachable! Alex and his wife Ashley who is also an amazing teacher invited me to one of the dance parties on Saturday night and I honestly have to say it was some of the most fun I've had in a while I had a chance to meet the teachers watch them dance. I have to say the Waterford ballroom is a professional fun atmosphere they are unlike the other ballroom dance studios

I love the Waterford ballroom! The parties are filled with fun, food and of course amazing dancing. The group lessons are a fun way to get extra practice. The staff is always very welcoming and friendly. Any questions are easily answered by the very knowledgeable staff. There is no pressure to compete or reach a certain level by a certain time. If you are looking for competition the Waterford ball room will take you to the top of the leader board with ease. Overall it is a superior dance studio with zero judgement and zero pressure. It is a fun filled environment for anyone wanting to learn the art of ballroom dancing!

I have been involved with the Waterford Ballroom since they opened. It is a wonderful place to learn to dance. The atmosphere is friendly . The teachers are extremely professional and always encourage you to try something new. Unlike other dance studios I have been involved in there is no pressure to dance at compitions...however if you are interested in competing they will take you to the top. The Saturday night dance parties are always alot of fun. Different themes make them exciting and no one ever judges your ability to dance. Lots of good food and fun. If you are interested in learning to dance I would recommend this studio.

After years of getting mocked for my inability to dance without endangering myself and/or others, I decided to scratch dance lessons off my bucket list. An associate of mine recommended Waterford Ballroom, so I decided to check it out. I went to one of their Saturday night dance parties and received a complimentary lesson. After patiently observing and throwing out some pointers (in between refreshment breaks), they treated me with a nearly unheard of level of respect and dignity. I sat on it for about a week, and then signed up for one of their very competitively priced dance packages. After a few lessons, (hats off to Jessica, Ashley, and Al!) I was ready to dance in public. I'm not saying I should give up taxidermy and take up professional ballroom dancing just yet, but in a few more lessons, I might consider it!

I absolutely love Waterford Ballroom!!! From the moment I walked in the door, I knew I was in the right place to learn ballroom dancing from top notch professionals! I was greeted with warmth and respect right away by sweet Ashley, who beamed with enthusiasm and friendliness. One of the owners Brian introduced me to my dance instructor Eric, who presented himself with poise, grace and professionalism. He immediately asked me what I was interested in learning, and then did his very best, (which I must say was way beyond my expectations), to begin instructing me in some basic ballroom steps. We had our 45 min free lesson and then introduced me to Brian one of the owners of the company. Once again, I was not disappointed!! We privately talked about what my goals were, and discussed an introductory package, which was a wonderful suggestion as an intro into ballroom dancing. Since that time, over 5 months ago, I have developed my dancing skills and love for dancing by learning from a wonderfully talented group of instructors. Alex, the co-owner ensures everyone learns the correct methods and his enthusiasm and love for dancing shines through in his instruction and during the Saturday Dance parties which are a blast! Jess is meticulous about technique while having a great time with her students, and DeAndria and Lauren make sure everyone is dancing and having a great time! These instructors are highly trained in technique, excellent presentation as well as creative expression! I have also met some kind and fun loving fellow dancers here, that add to the wonderful ambience of the studio! I highly recommend this professional, fun-loving environment to learn ballroom dancing and have great fun while doing so.