Curriculum

Fusion is an amazing dance, but it is uniquely challenging to learn since mixing dances requires in-depth and pre-existing knowledge. But we cracked the code!

At the Academy, we have developed a unique curriculum with progressive levels to guide dancers from beginners with zero knowledge to well rounded dancers in this wonderfully flexible dance.

Each level contains multiple month-long class series. While you can take these series in any order within your level, you'll need to complete all series in your current level before advancing to the next. As a bonus, once you’ve tested out of a level, you can register for any class of that level or below for free, space permitting.

Already experienced? Contact us for a placement assessment to start at a higher level!


Leveled classes

One foundational series designed for newcomers to partner dancing

Learn essential movement patterns, develop lead/follow communication skills, and gain the practical confidence to participate in fusion dance socials!
*Only runs in April, September, & November 2025 

Prereqs: None! Everyone is welcome, regardless of experience.

  • Learn a step-touch basic with variations, simple turns, and core techniques that allow you to lead and follow while interpreting the music.

Three complementary series introducing the "Momentum" dance mode

Build a fusion foundation with three distinct movement patterns inspired by West Coast Swing's linear pathways, Argentine Tango's rotational dynamics, and Lindy Hop's playful counterbalance.

Prereqs: Level 1, or experience in fusion or other partner dances

  • Slotted Momentum: Introduces West Coast Swing inspired slot-based conventions through pushes, passbys, tuck turns, and more. Learn how to create and maintain connection through linear pathways while developing the fundamentals of lead and follow within a slotted framework.

    Rotational Momentum: Introduces Argentine Tango inspired rotational conventions through pivots, ochos, grapevines, and more. Learn how to create and maintain connection through rotational pathways while developing the fundamentals of lead and follow within a circular framework.

    Centrifugal Momentum: Introduces Lindy Hop inspired conventions through send outs, merry go rounds, and more. Learn how to create and maintain counter body weight connection while developing the fundamentals of lead and follow within a centrifugal framework.

Six comprehensive series that complete your foundation as a fusion dancer

Expand your three distinct modes: Blues and hip hop derived Groove, tango and ballroomin’ blues inspired Smoothstepping, and swing and zouk inspired Momentum. Enhance your movement vocabulary with close-embrace techniques while refining existing skills to create more nuanced, dynamic, and musically responsive dances.

Prereqs: Level 2, or significant partner dance experience

  • Smoothstepping: Introduces Argentine Tango and Ballroomin’ Blues inspired vocabulary and conventions that offer a new way to connect through close embrace and other tools to express more lyrical music.

    Leg Displacements: Introduces Argentine Tango & Balboa-based inspired vocabulary to expand on our Smoothstepping mode, focusing on axis play and free leg displacements and variations.

    Intermediate Groove: Dives deeper into Groove conventions, with explorations into Blues and hip hop isolations, pulse variations, and partnership improvisation.

    Intermediate Slotted Momentum: Expands West Coast Swing inspired vocabulary and rhythmic patterns in a slot-based convention to enhance your fusion dancing. This series builds on foundational skills by introducing more complex sequences and variations with a focus on musicality.

    More Momentum Moves: Swing, BZouk, and Latin inspired moves to expand your momentum-based vocabulary. This series rounds out your Momentum learning, introducing moves and sequences every fusion dancer should know.

    Mode Switching: Dig into the quintessential fusion skill that allows us to modify our dance style on-the-fly. Master the subtle lead/follow shifts, nonverbal communication, and shades of differences between similar moves across varying dance styles.

Rotating guest-instructor series that diversify your fusion repertoire

These rotating monthly series alternate between genre-specific techniques and advanced fusion concepts, offering the highest level of fusion content offered in the Bay Area. 

Prereqs: Level 3, or FDA assessment

  • Depends on the month! Check out our Schedule page for a look at upcoming L4 classes.

Other Offerings

Monthly series with rotating themes to refine your personal movement quality

Each rotating theme drills essential solo movement skills and helps you develop a technical precision that elevates your fusion partner dancing. 

Prereqs: None! Everyone is welcome, regardless of experience.

  • Depends on the month! These classes always focus on solo body control, balance, and forging new pathways through various principles.

    Check out our Schedule page for a look at upcoming Solo classes.

Integrate new techniques in our welcoming community of learners

Once you fill yourself with knowledge, practice it with your peers in this open practica. Ask the on-call instructors for feedback on your dancing or help figuring out specific moves.

Any student currently or formerly enrolled at the Academy can come to the practica for free. Come dance and practice with us, even on months you’re not taking classes!