Dance in Roanoke, Louisiana: A Local's Guide to Classes, Studios, and Social Halls

By [Your Name] | Updated May 21, 2024

Tucked into Jefferson Davis Parish, the small unincorporated community of Roanoke, Louisiana, punches above its weight when it comes to dance. Here, wooden floors have been polished by generations of two-steps, and the line between "student" and "regular" at the local dance hall blurs after your first lesson. Whether you're a complete beginner searching for a welcoming studio or an experienced dancer looking to sharpen your technique, Roanoke's tight-knit dance scene offers something genuine—without the pretension of bigger cities.

This guide breaks down three local institutions, what they actually teach, and how to pick the right fit for your goals, budget, and schedule.

What to Know Before You Go

Roanoke sits at the crossroads of Southwest Louisiana's dance traditions. Cajun and zydeco dominate regional identity, but square dancing has deep roots here too, carried by Midwestern settlers who arrived in the early 20th century. Today, many local venues blend these influences—don't be surprised to hear a fiddle shift into a square dance call, or to find a Cajun waltz taught alongside traditional reels.

Three questions to ask yourself:

Do I want structured training or a social outlet? Studios and academies emphasize progression; clubs prioritize community.
What's my budget? Monthly studio memberships in this area typically run $60–$120, while social clubs often charge $5–$15 per event.
Who else is coming? Some venues cater to children and families; others are adult-focused.

Where to Dance in Roanoke

Roanoke Dance Academy

Rigorous Training for Dancers Who Want to Grow

Located just off Highway 395 in central Roanoke, the Roanoke Dance Academy operates out of a renovated barn with sprung-wood floors and wall-to-wall mirrors. This is the most formal training environment in the area, and it shows in the curriculum.

Styles offered:

Ballet and jazz (ages 5–18)
Adult contemporary and tap
Square dance fundamentals (seasonal, September–March)
Cajun two-step workshops (quarterly, with guest instructors from Lafayette)

Best for: Young dancers building technical foundations; adults returning to structured training after a long break.

Contact & logistics:

Address: 1421 Hwy 395, Roanoke, LA 70581
Phone: (337) 555-0142
Website: roanokedanceacademy.com
Pricing: $75/month for one weekly class; $110/month for unlimited classes
Note: New students can schedule a free trial class on the first Saturday of each month.

Southern Steps Dance Studio

Recreational Classes in a Low-Pressure Atmosphere

If the Academy feels too serious, Southern Steps Dance Studio offers a friendlier, more flexible entry point. Owner and instructor Marie Broussard, a Roanoke native, has built a reputation for patience—especially with adult beginners and nervous kids.

Styles offered:

Square dance (beginner and intermediate, Tuesdays and Thursdays)
Line dancing (country and pop, Wednesday evenings)
Youth hip-hop and creative movement (ages 4–12)
Couples' Cajun waltz (monthly Saturday intensives)

Best for: Families with multiple age groups; adults seeking exercise and social connection without competition pressure.

Contact & logistics:

Address: 208 Maple Street, Roanoke, LA 70581
Phone: (337) 555-0289
Website: southernstepsroanoke.com
Pricing: $15 drop-in per class; $65/month for unlimited weekly classes
What to bring: Comfortable closed-toe shoes. No partner required for square dance or line dancing.

Bayou Dance Club

Social Dancing, Live Music, and Community

The Bayou Dance Club isn't a studio—it's a social institution. Housed in a former feed store on the edge of town, the club hosts weekly gatherings where locals show up in boots and jeans ready to dance. Instruction here is informal but effective: experienced dancers regularly pull newcomers onto the floor and talk them through the steps.

Styles offered: