Where Confidence
Finds Its Rhythm
Championship-level ballroom, wedding, country & swing lessons in Calgary Alberta
More Than Steps.
A New You.
Every lesson at RU Dancing Academy is an investment in yourself — building something that lasts far beyond the dance floor.
Confidence
Stand taller, move with purpose. Our students consistently report a profound transformation in how they carry themselves — on and off the dance floor.
Connection
Dance is communication. Whether with a partner, at a wedding, or on a social floor — learn to truly connect through movement.
Personal Growth
Every challenge conquered in our studio builds resilience and joy that flows into every area of your life.
Wedding Magic
Create a first dance that stops the room. We specialize in making your most important dance moment absolutely unforgettable.
Community
Join a warm, welcoming Calgary community of dancers who share your passion. Make friends for life through movement.
Life Experience
From your first shuffle to the competition floor — dance gives you stories, memories, and skills you carry forever.
Meet the instructor, explore our story, and discover what makes this studio Calgary's premier dance academy.
A Career Built on Excellence
- Multi-division Country and West Coast Swing dance champion at national and international competitions
- Pro-Am competitive dance coach, producing World Championship-level results
- Specialist in American Smooth, Rhythm, Country, and West Coast Swing
- 500+ couples guided through their perfect wedding first dance in Calgary
- Guest Choreographer for Alberta Ballet
- About Richard Tymko
- Mission & Values
- Achievements & Accolades
- Movie, TV & Stage Credits
- Musical Staging & Consulting
What Calgary Dancers
Are Saying
Don't take our word for it. Here's what happens when Calgary residents walk through our door.
Rated 5 Stars on Google · Consistently Calgary's top-rated dance studio
"We had never danced in our lives. Richard had us gliding across the floor like we'd been dancing for years. Our first dance brought the whole room to tears. Worth every penny."
"I joined RU Dancing after my divorce to rebuild my confidence. Two years later, I'm competing in Pro-Am events. Richard didn't just teach me to dance — he helped me find myself again."
"The Saturday group classes have become the highlight of my week. Richard creates an environment where complete beginners and advanced dancers all feel welcome and celebrated."
"My husband surprised me with lessons before our anniversary trip to Nashville. We had the time of our lives on every dance floor. Richard's country instruction is incredible."
"I competed in my first ballroom competition at 58. Richard believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. I placed in the top 3. I cried on the dance floor. Best decision of my life."
"The swing classes are pure joy. Richard is not just a great teacher — he's an entertainer. You're laughing and learning at the same time. My friend group all joined because of me."
Everything You Need to
Get Started
Beginner's Guide to Ballroom Dancing in Calgary
Never danced before? Here's exactly what to expect, what to wear, and how to make the most of your first Calgary ballroom lesson.
- 1No experience needed — seriously, everyone starts somewhere. Richard specializes in true beginners.
- 2Wear comfortable clothes and smooth-soled shoes. No special dance shoes required for your first few lessons.
- 3Come with an open mind. Progress comes faster than you expect — most beginners are moving by lesson two.
- 4Group classes or private? Both work — private lessons accelerate progress while group classes build community.
- 5Ballroom covers Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz and much more — you'll discover your favourite style.
- 6Set a realistic goal: social dancing, a wedding, or competition. Richard will tailor your learning path accordingly.
Calgary Wedding Dance Planning Guide
Planning the perfect first dance? Here's a step-by-step timeline from engagement to the big moment.
- 16+ months out: Book your wedding dance lessons as early as possible — slots fill fast, especially in peak season.
- 2Choose your song: Richard can choreograph to literally any song. Bring your ideas to your first consultation.
- 3Decide your style: Romantic waltz? Playful jive surprise? Modern choreography? We'll help you decide what fits your personalities.
- 4Practice schedule: 6–8 lessons over 2–3 months is our typical recommendation for a polished result.
- 5Dress rehearsal: Practice in your wedding shoes and attire at least twice before the big day.
- 6The moment: Trust the process. When the music starts, everything you've practiced will be there.
Calgary's Dance Studio
Community
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Serving all of Greater Calgary and surrounding communitiesYour Questions,
Answered
Absolutely not! Richard Tymko specializes in teaching complete beginners. Many of our most successful students walked in with zero dance experience. We tailor every lesson to exactly where you are right now — no judgment, no pressure, just progress at your pace.
Most couples need 10 lessons for a polished, confident first dance.
This depends on your song choice, complexity of choreography, and your starting experience.
Our Basic package (6 sessions) works beautifully for a simpler, romantic dances, while.
Our Platinum package (10 sessions) gives you everything you need for a truly memorable performance.
We also offer an EMERGENCY Package for couples who book close to their wedding date.
We offer an extraordinary range — International Standard Ballroom (Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Quickstep), American Smooth, Latin (Cha Cha, Rumba, Samba, Jive, Paso Doble), American Rhythm, Country (Two-Step, Triple Two, Line Dance, Country Swing), Swing (East Coast, West Coast, Lindy Hop, Balboa), Latin social dances (Salsa, Bachata, Merengue), and more.
Richard brings a rare combination: multi-championship competitive experience, professional choreography credits (including Alberta Ballet collaborations and film/TV work), and 20+ years of passionate teaching in Calgary. He doesn't just teach steps — he teaches you to feel music, connect with your partner, and move with genuine artistry.
Yes! Private lessons are available for individuals, couples, and small groups. Private instruction is the fastest way to improve — every minute is focused on your specific needs, goals, and learning style. Many students combine group classes for the social energy with private lessons for accelerated technical development.
Yes — and it's one of our most transformative programs. Our Pro-Am program allows you to train and compete alongside Richard as your professional partner, just like Dancing with the Stars. Couples coaching is also available. Students have competed at provincial and national levels.
Our Calgary dance studio welcomes students from across the entire city — including Beltline, Mission, Marda Loop, Kensington, NW Calgary, SW Calgary, NE Calgary, SE Calgary, Inglewood, Bridgeland, Ramsay, Mount Royal, and surrounding communities.