GDA Dance & Fitness Studio is a high quality, recreational and professional dance & fitness studio that creates a challenging and enjoyable learning environment for all. As one of Atlanta’s largest dance studios, GDA has a unique non-competitive approach of teaching through encouragement to excel and have fun.

We believe that dance and fitness are intertwined to offer tremendous benefits for everyone! The professional staff brings personal commitment and valuable experience to their students providing the highest level of instruction in all dance disciplines. Since 1990, GDA has provided personalized and comprehensive dance training to both the professional and recreational adult dancer. During that time, the studio has become one of the most respected centers of dance education in the country and is renowned for its preservation and presentation of all styles of dance.

New to dance?  Tips on trying out a new dance or fitness class:

• Make it fun and let loose! We suggest picking a dance style that appeals most to you, and then giving yourself at least a month to decide whether it’s really for you.  Keep in mind that if it's your first time dancing, it might take you a few classes to get in the groove.   As they say, "Repetition is the mother of all skill."
• If you are worried about not being able to follow along with the rest of the class, remember you didn’t learn how to walk in one day. Standing behind someone who seems to know what they’re doing is a great trick. When taking a dance class for fitness, it's all about having fun and getting a great workout! Once you master the moves, the real fun begins. Add your own style and "Dance like no ones watching."

How do I know which class or level to take?

If you are unsure, you are welcome to observe class (at no charge) prior to taking them. If it is your first time at the studio, we recommend taking a level that is lower for the following reasons; you may be unfamiliar with a teacher's style, classes may be harder than what you are accustomed to and you might want to acclimate yourself to new surroundings. If you haven't danced in many years, you'll want to reintroduce your body and muscles slowly. Remember, if you've chosen a class that is not best for you, we will happily switch you to another class.

What do I wear?

Dance/workout clothes that you can move comfortably in.

Sneakers or Jazz shoes/sneakers are appropriate.

How long will it take me to progress from one level class to the next?

That varies from student to student and really depends on the individual and how often you attend class.  Dancing is a physical skill so it does take repetition to improve.

Can I observe a class before I take?

Yes, observation windows are available for viewing.

Our History

Gotta Dance Atlanta has been operating a studio for over 17 years.  Kim Thomas and Leonard Roberson founded Gotta Dance in 1990.  Inspired by a passion to dance and a dream to educate the community in the art of all dance forms, Kim and Leonard opened their doors on Cheshire Bridge Road in Atlanta.  Their knowledge, experience and passion for dance took the dance community by storm as they created a facility that bridged the gap between dance and fitness.  Leonard Roberson passed away in 1999. After 10 years at this location, Kim Thomas relocated the studio to Adams Drive in Atlanta.  This location brought so much positive growth that the studio relocated to a larger facility.  New Directors have teamed up with Kim and have taken the studio to the next level.  These incredibly talented individuals have brought their knowledge of the dance industry to Gotta Dance.  Their accomplishments, reputation, creativity and credentials promote the success and uniqueness of Gotta Dance Atlanta.  GDA will continue to set precedence as Atlanta’s number one unique dance and fitness studio.  We are proud of our reputation and will maintain this standard of excellence. Our instructors are extremely qualified in their field of study and are Atlanta’s most sought after dancers and choreographers. To see a list of their qualifications and bios, visit Our Staff page.

Our philosophy is simple:  provide superior customer service and quality dance and fitness instruction while focusing on a fun, safe and non-competitive atmosphere.  After all, the studio belongs to you.  Enjoy!!