About us
About The DanceWell School
Our Story
DanceWell Ballroom began in 1988 when Linda Springstead started teaching ballroom and social dancing through Clackamas Community Education classes. What started as a few evening classes quickly grew in popularity, and in 1990 Linda turned her passion into a full-time business.
Over the years, the studio expanded from its original location in Southeast Portland’s Hollywood district to multiple locations, eventually settling into our current homes in Parkrose (near PDX airport) and Aloha/Beaverton. Since 2000, we have proudly operated as an independent studio dedicated to making social dancing accessible and fun for everyone.
At DanceWell, our focus has always been on social dancing with panache. We believe dancing should be joyful, welcoming, and with a little style. Singles and couples are equally welcome, and we emphasize good social skills along with great technique.
Today, more than 35 years later, Linda continues to lead the studio with the same energy, warmth, and love for dancing that started it all.
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The History of Ballroom Dance
Ballroom dance has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. Originating in Europe, it evolved through court dances of the Renaissance and Baroque periods into the elegant social dances of the 19th and 20th centuries.
In the early 1900s, ballroom dance gained massive popularity in America with the rise of swing, foxtrot, and waltz. The post-war era brought Latin dances such as cha-cha, rumba, and salsa into the mainstream. And today, ballroom dance continues to evolve while maintaining its timeless elegance and social connection.
At DanceWell PDX Schools, we honor this rich tradition while keeping the focus on joyful social dancing in a modern, welcoming environment.
