Artistry in Motion: Dance Performances & Classes to Attend in Sarasota

Welcome to the vibrant world of song and dance in Sarasota, where the city's very name is said to be a nod to its rhythmic roots, derived from a Spanish term meaning "a place of dancing." 

As the sun-kissed city on Florida's Gulf Coast, Sarasota boasts an enchanting performing arts scene that celebrates all things art. Whether you're a spectator seeking mesmerizing performances or an aspiring dancer eager to partake in workshops, Sarasota has a beat to move, or be moved, to.

Sarasota Ballet

Photo by Frank Atura

Under the artistic direction of Iain Webb and the executive guidance of Joseph Volpe, The Sarasota Ballet has garnered global acclaim for its distinctive performances. Recognized for its integrity and creativity, the Company has graced esteemed venues, including the Kennedy Center and New York City Center, and featured choreography from globally acclaimed luminaries—solidifying its reputation as an artistic force in the ballet world. 

Photo by Taylor Riffle, taken at Waterside Place's Sights + Sounds

You can catch The Sarasota Ballet's 2025-2026 Season from October - May, bringing an impressive lineup of seven unique programs that feature the internationally recognized repertoire and noteworthy programming the Company is known for. Purchase tickets online, or contact the box office, and plan your evening around the charming venue set to hold your attending performance. The Sarasota Ballet primarily performs at FSU Center for the Performing Arts, the Sarasota Opera House and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

Outside the theatre, find yourself in the audience of an outdoor performance at Waterside Place during a free, signature event series known as Sights + Sounds. The Sarasota Ballet is set to perform under the public pavilion on Saturday, March 7, 4pm - 5pm, showcasing a mix of traditional ballet and contemporary dance.

Sarasota Contemporary Dance

Photo courtesy of Sarasota Contemporary Dance

Sarasota Contemporary Dance (SCD) stands as Sarasota's first professional contemporary dance company, shaping the local arts scene for almost 20 years. Nestled in the heart of the historic Rosemary Square district, SCD offers cutting-edge performances, education and collaborations. Under Artistic Director Leymis Bolaños Wilmott, the company is renowned for its high-energy contemporary works and diverse partnerships.

You can catch SCD's special 20th Anniversary Season, featuring four main stage productions: three held at the FSU Center for Performing Arts, and the season finale presented at the Manatee Performing Arts Center. The 2025-2026 Season takes place from December - May, and you can purchase single tickets or season subscriptions online.

Photo courtesy of Sarasota Contemporary Dance

For a more intimate experience, visit SCD's home studio at one of their beloved In-Studio Series. This up close and personal series allows artists at varying stages of their career to showcase either works in-progress or the final touches of a developed piece, followed by a Q&A with the featured local artist. In-studio performances are perfect for dance lovers, newcomers and those looking to support local art in an authentic setting. 

To brush up your own dance skills, stay in the know of SCD's beginner and adult-friendly classes throughout the year, created to be welcoming introductions and fun, expressive settings for all. Workshop offerings include: Jazz, all levels Afro-Fusion, Tap, Ballet Flow, Contemporary, all levels Hip Hop and Improvisational Dance.

Vision of Dance

Vision of Dance's mantra, "Dance First, Think Later" encourages students to get out of their comfort zones and surrender to the rhythm. Escape the confines of overthinking and break into the world of ballroom dance as a new, exciting hobby. Getting married? Have professional instructors choreograph a special wedding dance for your reception! 

Whether you're a seasoned dancer with a partner or a novice solo dancer, skilled instructors will lead you through various styles—from American Smooth Ballroom styles like the Fox-Trot, Tango, Waltz and Quickstep to Latin Ballroom styles like Salsa, Cha Cha, Samba and Rumba. There are even opportunities to learn more social Club styles, such as West Coast Swing, Hustle and Country Western. Slip into your dancing shoes and leave your worries behind!

The group is currently running a New Student Special for three private dance sessions. 

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT)’s performances sparkle with kinetic energy, blending theatre and movement in productions where dance isn’t just an aside—it’s the star. The theatre was founded by Nate Jacobs, a local actor, director and playwright, after noticing a lack of roles for Black performers in Sarasota. Today, each show captures WBTT’s commitment to rhythm, African American heritage and the art of movement. 

If you're drawn to song and dance with a story, the 2025-2026 Season take audiences on a rhythm-driven journey with four productions running from November - May, spotlighting a professional cast mixed with accomplished artists, young aspiring performers and guest artists from around the country. 

WBTT also offers a variety of dance and improv classes for all ages and skill levels throughout the year, taking place at the Troupe's campus in the Rosemary District. Fun community classes include classic Line Dancing, if you want to conquer the "Cupid Shuffle" or brush up on your "Boot Scoot Boogie," and African Dance, which infuses traditional afro dance with modern, contemporary and urban moves. 

The Sarasota Cuban Ballet School

Founded by Cuban ballet maestros Ariel Serrano and Wilmian Hernández, The Sarasota Cuban Ballet School (SCBS) is a haven for classical dance enthusiasts. Trained at Cuba's prestigious National Ballet School, Serrano and Hernández bring elite expertise to SCBS. The heart of the school lies in its Pre-Professional Program, which employs the renowned Cuban method to prepare dedicated young dancers for illustrious careers. SCBS, a rare U.S. proponent of the Cuban style, fosters athleticism, passion and grace—producing technically gifted and artistically charismatic dancers who have graced stages worldwide.

Save some space on your calendar for the 2025-2026 Season which runs December - May and ends with an exciting End of Year Show at Riverview Performing Arts Center. For a special gala performance by dancers from around the world, catch On Stage 2026 at the Sarasota Opera House in July.  

Should you want to wipe the dust of those old ballet shoes, you can also take part in SCBS's Adult Ballet classes, designed for fun and fitness—whether you've danced when you were younger, or want to keep up with your dancing. Classes welcome all ages, sizes and abilities and is a great way to improve stamina, strength, coordination and confidence!