Fred Astaire Dance Studios: Elevating Dance Instruction with Legacy and Precision

Fred Astaire Dance Studios is a prestigious dance franchise that traces its roots back to 1947, when it was established by the iconic dancer Fred Astaire in partnership with Charles and Chester Casanave.

Today, the brand is headquartered in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Although Astaire stepped away from the business in 1966, he granted the rights to continue using his name, preserving his enduring legacy in the dance world.

The studios specialize in a wide array of dance disciplines, offering expert instruction in ballroom, Latin, swing, and dance-based fitness classes. These programs are thoughtfully designed to accommodate dancers across all age groups and experience levels.

A defining feature of the Fred Astaire Dance Studios is its proprietary teaching system, originally crafted by Fred Astaire himself. This unique curriculum ensures that students receive high-quality training that reflects the techniques and elegance championed by Astaire throughout his illustrious career.

Training

Fred Astaire Dance Studios provides a multi-tiered training system designed to prepare franchisees and their staff for effective studio operations and long-term success. The programs combine in-person, on-site, and digital learning formats with ongoing training requirements.

1. Initial Training Program
   Franchisees must complete a mandatory initial training program consisting of three days at Fred Astaire’s offices and two consecutive days at an existing studio. This training includes e-learning modules and must be completed at least 10 days before the studio opens.
2. Employee Training by Franchisee
   The Operating Principal and Key Managers are responsible for training all other employees, including future hires, in accordance with Fred Astaire’s standards. If training does not meet franchisor expectations, the franchisee may be required to delay opening or undergo remedial training.
3. Continuing Business Education (CBE)
   Franchisees must complete 24 hours of business education every two years. This can include optional internal training or third-party programs focused on general business and franchising topics.

Territory Protection

Fred Astaire Dance Studios grants franchisees a defined “Territory” based on local demographics and density, with a minimum population of 30,000 people.

While the franchisor agrees not to open another Fred Astaire Studio within this Territory during the agreement term—assuming the franchisee meets performance standards—this area is not exclusive.

Other franchise territories may overlap, and the franchisor retains rights to operate other businesses or sell through alternative channels.

The franchisee's rights to the Territory can be reduced or revoked if they fail to meet required performance standards, such as sales targets. Moreover, the franchisor and its affiliates reserve the right to advertise, sell, or license the brand’s products and services—including through e-commerce or retail outlets—inside and outside the Territory.