Discover the Joy of Dance

We believe everyone can learn to dance! With our personalized instruction, expert knowledge, attention to detail and sense of humor you will definitely ENJOY your experience with Dance Connection

Dance Connection - Swing, Latin, Ballroom & Wedding Dance Lessons in Brooklyn, NYC

With over 35 years of serving the Brooklyn community bringing people together with Social Dance Classes! Everyone is welcome - all ages, new dancers, experienced dancers, singles, couples and LGBTQ+ friendly.

Ongoing Social dance classes in Swing, Latin & Ballroom styles with an emphasis on enjoyment, community and connection. These classes rotate partners working on lead and follow techniques, new patterns, rhythm and musicality. Beginner – Intermediate Levels and no partner necessary. All are welcome, LGBTQ friendly.

My partner and I took two private lessons and a three-class workshop with Laurie, to prepare for our wedding. We had so much fun, and learned so much, especially in the private lessons. We had tried another place in Manhattan, but found it to be high in price and upsell. Working with Laurie felt like working with a knowledgable friend — she was so outgoing, kind, and effective, and we never felt like she was trying to sell to us.

We ended up doing a foxtrot with a few spins and a dip at the wedding, and got so many compliments.

We’ll be looking into more group classes this summer!
— Edwin M.

Our Private lessons are personalized, one-on-one sessions taking place in a private studio. Try a new dance style or improve and add patterns in a style you know and focus on technique & musicality. Whether it’s for a social event, wedding preparation and a first dance or personal well-being, you will progress quickly and enjoy your dance floor time. Build confidence, have fun, receive immediate and supportive feedback in a private studio.


Give the Gift of Dance, Gift Cards are Available

What People Are Saying!

Our Couples Classes offer partners a fun and intimate way to connect through dance. These special sessions combine the charm of a date night with the joy of learning a variety of dance styles in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Experience the fun and romance of dancing together, adding a new dimension to your special connection! We do not rotate partners in these classes. Choose from 4 week sessions or 2 Hour Intensive Workshops.


Enjoy customized Wedding Dance Lessons designed to meet your specific goals and needs. We'll create a simple first dance with a few turns and dips, or an elaborate choreographed piece. We guarantee you will enjoy the process and feel confident with your end result! Choose from a 3-Week Workshop, Couples Only Classes, or private studio instruction. We also assist with music selection, classic parent bride and groom dances and wedding party surprise group dances.


Laurie is an outstanding dance instructor. Through the wedding workshop and several private lessons, we progressed quickly thanks to her clear, systematic teaching. She introduces new steps at just the right pace, so we built a solid foundation without feeling overwhelmed. I highly recommend Dance Connection.
— By Seamus M.
“I’ve been learning ballroom and Latin dances from Laurie at Dance Connection for 8+ years. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done—fun, healthy, and therapeutic! Don’t wait like I did; sign up now and learn to really dance with Laurie Shayler’s Dance Connection.
— Shirley
Laurie was amazing! We took the 10-class package, and our wedding dance was the best part of our wedding prep. Despite thinking I was uncoordinated, Laurie choreographed a beautiful, elegant dance. Our practices became our favorite date nights, and the dance even helped calm us during the chaos. Guests were impressed, assuming we had a dance background. Laurie is patient, encouraging, and gave us incredible confidence.
— Desiree
Laurie is an incredible dance teacher. She is so patient, encouraging and kind. She exudes excitement which is infectious!
I encourage anyone at any level to sign up with Dance Connection!
— Judy L

About Laurie

Laurie Shayler is an accomplished dancer, educator, and entrepreneur with deep roots in both academia and the social dance scene. Holding a B.S. in Dance (S.U.N.Y Brockport) and an M.A. in TESOL (Hunter College), her professional background spans Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Latin, Swing, and Ballroom styles.

She has performed and taught with numerous modern dance choreographers across the United States, Europe, and Asia. Driven by the energy of the New York social dance scene, she founded Dance Connection in Brooklyn, dedicated to making Swing, Latin, and Ballroom accessible to everyone. She also specializes in wedding preparation and choreography.…