Odyssey Hand Dance Academy of Greenbelt

Odyssey Hand Dance Academy of Greenbelt is a dance studio in Greenbelt, Maryland, dedicated to teaching D.C. style hand dance, a unique form of swing dance with roots in the 1920s and recognized as the Official Dance of the District of Columbia by the D.C. Council. The studio offers beginner and next-level classes focused on close-in, intricate footwork and delicate handwork, with sessions held weekly from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Classes are open to all skill levels, welcoming students from all walks of life who seek to learn this expressive dance style. The academy emphasizes a fun, supportive environment where students build confidence and form lasting connections within the Hand Dance community.

The academy was founded in winter 2020 by Carl Davis, a certified instructor with over a decade of study under renowned teacher Mr. Lawrence “Brad” Bradford. Davis began teaching in the greater DMV area after his own introduction to the dance in the late 1990s. His passion for teaching is rooted in creating joyful, transformative experiences, each class designed to help students reach that “aha moment” when the dance clicks. The team of instructors brings over 30 years of combined teaching experience, ensuring personalized guidance and a welcoming atmosphere for every student.

Located at 9901 Lanham Severn Road in the Lanham Skate Center, the studio is situated on a major thoroughfare in Lanham, Maryland. While no specific nearby landmarks are listed, the location is accessible from key regional routes and serves as a hub for social dance events and community engagement. With a perfect 5.00 rating and positive reviews from students, the academy is recognized for its dedication to teaching, fostering community, and preserving a dance tradition honored by the Smithsonian Institution.

Odyssey Hand Dance Academy stands as a vital part of Greenbelt’s cultural landscape, offering a joyful, inclusive space where the rhythm of D.C. hand dance continues to thrive.