There are basically two types of dance studios that offer dance instruction to the public:

1. Theatrical dance arts, comprised of ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, mime, ethnic and acrobatic dance instruction.

2. Ballroom dance which offers instruction in Viennese waltz, quickstep and various Latin dances like cha cha, meringue, salsa and tango.

Dance Studios And Their Operation

Dance studios are managed by experienced dance instructors certified by test to teach theatrical dance and ballroom. These instructors may be members of dance organizations like Dance Educators of America or Dance Masters of America which has member groups throughout the United States. These organizations require a strict adherence to business policies that promote the fair instruction rates to students. They also advance knowledge of theatrical arts dance for teachers and students through regular participation in organization programs and student competitions. Some states also have these state-wide associations. Dance studios maintain regular hours of operation that make it convenient for students to learn dance styles of their choice.

Dance Equipment

In theatrical arts dance studios, a ballet barre is required for class or private instructions. Dance instructors offer class lessons and for an additional cost, private lessons. Another necessity in both theatrical arts and ballroom is a full compliment of wall mirrors. It may be said that mirrors are a dancer’s best friend or worst enemy, depending on the dancer’s talents. Music on disk is also a basic part of dance studio equipment.

Dance Lessons

Dance lessons are usually 1 hour in duration. Ballroom lessons can vary depending on the studio. Ballroom studios tend to allow longer class instruction as a result of a party atmosphere. Theatrical arts dance lessons may be taught in curriculum format with beginner-level students graduating to mid-level and advanced class instruction. This is known as dance syllabus.

You should also read the following: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dance_studio