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American Dance AcademySchool DanceFloridaOrange CountyWinter ParkSchool Dance in Aloma AvenueWinter Park Ballroom Dance Co.
Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. ico

Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co.

6904 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792, USA

4.0
Note: this applies only to the physical studio, studio owner, and not any of the individuals or groups that rent this space for their independent activities. Likewise, this is my personal perspective alone.I worked on my ballroom dancing at this location for ~10mo at approximately 4.5-8.5hrs per week for private lessons (with independent instruction), group classes, and socials, until the studio owner Mark Arnott's paranoid and erratic behavior toward collaborating independent professionals crossed into malicious.All independent ballroom instructors that considered Winter Park Ballroom as their primary public teaching location left this studio in Nov 2024 after a series of increasingly temperamental actions from the studio owner. I left the studio out of respect for those professionals.The core ballroom community here is made up of fantastic people that are warm and inviting and joyful, but unfortunately most are intrinsically tied to the Winter Park location and therefore this studio and owner. I miss seeing everyone--you all brought a lightness into my life that is now lacking.Everyone entering this studio should be wary of Mark's civil and potentially criminal misuse of studio security footage. You are being recorded and watched without your knowledge or consent, and any small private grievance toward Mark may be used to hurt you personally, publically, and professionally without explanation. To be clear, this is not simply a communication issue between two parties. Mark acted unethically, unprofessionally, and with petty malice to undermine a community that was greater for having these individuals.If you are considering investing your time and energy here, either as a professional or as a new member of the ballroom community, I would walk away. Mark will never condone professional, personal, or community growth that is beyond his control or that is greater than his own.If you are attending any of the group classes or socials led by independents that are just paying for floor space: West Coast Swing with Aimee and Gary on Mondays, or Contra Dance with Joe Harrington on Fridays; these groups have their own communities that are fantastic. Enjoy the independent events, but just be aware of the cameras and how your words or actions, however slight, could be used to hurt you, the event hosts, and respective communities on Arnott's whim. - Chris Engberg
Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. Introduce

For residents in the Florida region, particularly those in and around Winter Park, the Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. is a notable "school" and venue that serves as a central hub for various dance activities. While it functions as a location where people learn and practice dance, it's important for local users to understand its unique operational structure. The facility itself is praised for its "Great venue inside clean and great atmosphere" and "Phenomenal Air Conditioning," making it a comfortable place for dance. It regularly hosts independent dance groups and classes, offering a space for the diverse Central Florida dance community to come together.

The core ballroom community associated with this location is described by patrons as being made up of "fantastic people that are warm and inviting and joyful." This speaks to the positive social atmosphere that can be found within its walls, particularly during independent events. The venue's mission, as a space for dance, inherently provides a pathway to physical activity, social interaction, and mental stimulation, contributing to the well-being of its attendees. Many individuals find that learning and practicing dance offers "fun, exercise and meeting people."

It is crucial for potential new members or professionals considering this location to be fully informed about the nuances of the venue's management, as highlighted in some public reviews. One detailed review, while acknowledging the quality of independent instructors and the vibrant community, raises significant concerns regarding the studio owner's conduct and the use of security footage. This reviewer asserts that "Everyone entering this studio should be wary of Mark's civil and potentially criminal misuse of studio security footage. You are being recorded and watched without your knowledge or consent, and any small private grievance toward Mark may be used to hurt you personally, publically, and professionally without explanation." They further advise that "If you are considering investing your time and energy here, either as a professional or as a new member of the ballroom community, I would walk away. Mark will never condone professional, personal, or community growth that is beyond his control or that is greater than his own." This perspective suggests a challenging environment for those directly affiliated with the studio's owner.

However, another review offers a contrasting view, stating, "Check out Winter Park Ballroom and you will not be disappointed at all... Mark the owner cares about his clients and it shows. Always a great time here and mark is a very accomplished teacher for sure. Expect to be impressed!" This highlights a diverse range of experiences at the venue. For independent groups that rent the floor space, such as "West Coast Swing with Aimee and Gary on Mondays, or Contra Dance with Joe Harrington on Fridays," these events maintain their own "fantastic" communities. Patrons attending these independent events are advised to "Enjoy the independent events, but just be aware of the cameras and how your words or actions, however slight, could be used to hurt you, the event hosts, and respective communities on Arnott's whim." This nuanced understanding is essential for locals navigating their engagement with this "school" for dance.

Location and Accessibility

Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. is located at 6904 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792, USA. This address places the dance studio in a well-known area of Winter Park, making it generally accessible for residents throughout Winter Park and the broader Central Florida region. Aloma Avenue is a significant east-west corridor, providing straightforward navigation to the venue from various neighborhoods. The location's proximity to major roadways such as the 417 (Central Florida GreeneWay) facilitates easy access for individuals commuting from different parts of Orange and Seminole Counties.

The facility is noted for having "Well-lit parking area," which is a considerable advantage for attendees, especially during evening classes and social events. Ample parking enhances convenience and provides a sense of security. While specific public transportation routes would need to be verified with Orlando's Lynx bus service, major routes often run through or near commercial thoroughfares like Aloma Avenue, potentially offering additional accessibility for those relying on public transit. The strategic placement of the Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. ensures that it is a practical and convenient destination for locals seeking dance instruction, practice, and social events within the Central Florida dance community. Its setting in a commercial area further contributes to its ease of access and visibility for potential attendees.

Services Offered

Based on available public data and reviews, Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. serves primarily as a venue for dance activities, with some instruction provided by the owner and extensive use by independent instructors and groups.

  • Ballroom Dance Classes: Offers instruction in various ballroom dance styles, including Tango, Salsa, Lindy Hop, Cha Cha, Foxtrot, Waltz, Samba, Argentine Tango, Hustle, Rumba, Bolero, Merengue, West Coast Swing, East Coast Swing, Country, Polka, Bachata, Sensual Bachata, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz, Mambo, International Dances, Paso Doble, Jive, and Texas 2 Step.
  • Private Dance Lessons: Provides personalized private lessons for all dance experience levels, with expert instructors. The owner, Mark Arnott, is noted as an "accomplished teacher."
  • Group Classes: Offers group classes for various dance styles, catering to different interests and skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
  • Social Dance Events: Hosts social events and practice parties, allowing dancers to apply their skills in a relaxed setting and socialize with the dance community.
  • Life Events Choreography: Offers services for creating custom choreography for special life events, such as weddings.
  • Venue Rentals: The facility is available for rent for a range of events, including intimate weddings, engagement parties, anniversary celebrations, and private dinners.
  • Independent Group Classes: Serves as a space for independent dance groups and instructors who rent the floor for their own classes and socials (e.g., West Coast Swing with Aimee and Gary, Contra Dance with Joe Harrington).
Features / Highlights
  • Excellent Venue and Atmosphere: Praised for being a "Great venue inside clean and great atmosphere," creating an inviting space for dance activities.
  • Phenomenal Air Conditioning: A noted feature is the "Phenomenal Air Conditioning," ensuring a comfortable environment, especially in Florida's climate.
  • New Real Hardwood Floors: The studio boasts "New real hardwood floors," which are ideal for dance and contribute to a professional feel.
  • Modern Sound System: Equipped with a "Modern Sound System" for high-quality music during classes and events.
  • Galley Kitchen: Features a "Galley kitchen with dishwasher, sink, fridge," which is convenient for events and breaks.
  • Two HD Projectors: Includes "Two HD projectors," suggesting capabilities for presentations or visual aids during events.
  • Well-Lit Parking Area: Offers a "Well-lit parking area" for convenience and safety.
  • Easy Access to 417: Central location with "East access to 417," enhancing accessibility for attendees from across Central Florida.
  • Diverse Dance Offerings: A wide range of dance styles are taught, catering to varied interests in ballroom, Latin, and swing.
  • Community Hub for Independent Groups: Serves as a crucial meeting point for various independent dance communities, fostering a lively social scene.
Contact Information

Address: 6904 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792, USA

Phone: (407) 346-4790

Mobile Phone: +1 407-346-4790

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For locals in the Florida region, particularly those with an interest in dance in Winter Park and surrounding areas, Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. presents itself as a significant "school" and venue. It offers a well-appointed space for various dance activities, providing a comfortable and well-equipped environment for learning and social engagement. Its suitability for locals, however, comes with a caveat, as outlined in customer experiences.

On one hand, the physical attributes of the venue—including its "clean and great atmosphere," "phenomenal Air Conditioning," and "new real hardwood floors"—make it highly appealing for dance. The comprehensive array of ballroom and social dance styles offered, whether through the owner's instruction or via independent instructors renting the space, provides ample opportunities for locals to learn, practice, and enjoy dancing. The presence of vibrant "independent events" like West Coast Swing and Contra Dance, which have their own "fantastic" communities, underscores its role as a vital social hub for dancers in Central Florida. Many find the "core ballroom community here" to be "warm and inviting and joyful," which is a powerful draw for those seeking social connection through dance.

On the other hand, potential new students or professionals considering the studio for long-term engagement should be aware of the serious concerns raised by some former patrons regarding the studio owner's conduct and the use of security footage. These concerns suggest a need for caution and awareness for anyone directly interacting with the studio's management beyond attending independent, renter-led classes. This nuanced understanding is critical for locals to make informed decisions about their engagement with the venue.

In summary, for locals primarily seeking a high-quality venue to attend established independent dance classes and social events, enjoying excellent facilities and a strong community, Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. is a suitable option. However, for those considering deeper involvement or private lessons directly with the studio owner, it is advisable to proceed with caution and thorough due diligence, taking into account all available feedback to ensure a positive and secure experience in their pursuit of dance in Winter Park.

Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. Photos

Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. Picture 1

Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. Location

Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co.

6904 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792, USA

Winter Park Ballroom Dance Co. Reviews

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