OUR HISTORY IS RICH

In the 1940s, the Banneker Ballroom Dance Club came to life, igniting a passion for dance in Washington, DC’s vibrant community. Funded by the city’s Recreation Department, the classes took place at the Banneker Recreation Center, attracting a dynamic mix of African-American men and women from all walks of life. These dance sessions weren’t just about perfecting technique—they were a full experience in style, grace, and social poise. Men had to wear neckties as part of the rigorous training in etiquette and deportment, ensuring that every student danced with both skill and class.

The early 1950s saw a surge of energy when local Jewish personalities Milton Grant and Herb Davis launched the Dunbar Dance Studio at the 2011 Club in the Dunbar Hotel. African-American dancers were taught the art of ballroom dancing by seasoned instructors from the renowned Arthur Murray Dance Studio. The studio eventually found new leadership in Loren Frederic Maurer, an executive at Arthur Murray, who transformed it into the Frederic Loren Interracial Dance Studio. Maurer and his talented instructors not only elevated dance technique but also trained students in the art of studio management. As the studio closed, some of its standout “graduates,” including Joe Brooks, went on to open their own dance schools, further spreading the love for dance. Teachers like Stan Kelly and Ruth Taylor made significant impacts during the early 1950s, shaping the future of the club.

Ruth Taylor, a driving force in the dance community, introduced monthly dance parties, a beloved tradition that continues to this day. Her tenure continued until 1970 when she stepped down, leaving the future of the class in question. Recognizing its importance, Ruth passed the baton to Joe Brooks, who enthusiastically embraced the role. Under his leadership, the dance class was transformed into a full-fledged dance club in the mid-1970s, empowering the group to sponsor its own exhilarating dance parties and events.

Joe Brooks continued as the club’s esteemed lead instructor until 1985, when the next generation of leaders took the reins. Kitty Gaston, a former Banneker student and national competition dancer, revitalized the club with her expertise and dynamic teaching style. Her departure in 1990 saw the return of Ruth Taylor and Joe Brooks, who once again provided leadership and direction, keeping the spirit of the club alive.

Joe Brooks remained the principal instructor until his well-deserved retirement in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and excellence. He continued to support the club until his passing in 2002, at the age of 84. In 1997, Joe Petrisko brought his skill and enthusiasm to the club, adding his mark to Banneker’s rich history. His nine-year tenure helped refine and expand the club’s dance instruction.

As Joe Petrisko wrapped up his incredible nine-year tenure in 2006, Stan Kelly, an artistic and passionate instructor, took the reins. Stan poured his heart into teaching, ensuring no class was ever missed. For nearly a decade, his energy and expertise energized the club, building a foundation for even greater things. After a back injury forced his early retirement in 2015, Stan handed the baton to Michael Sims, a gifted performer with a fresh vision.

Michael’s debut in March 2015, with a captivating Waltz lesson, injected new excitement into the club. His dynamic approach and commitment to pushing the boundaries reignited the dance club’s spirit, earning him a warm and enthusiastic welcome from Banneker members. His dynamic flair for ballroom dance and his natural gift for instruction energized the club, attracting a wave of new students during his 8-year tenure with Banneker. His passion and expertise ignited a love for dance in everyone who joined.

In 2022, Dr. Stephen Wright took the reins as the new instructor, bringing with him an expansive knowledge of ballroom dance. With enthusiasm and skill, he has seamlessly built upon the foundation laid by previous instructors, pushing the club to new heights and inspiring dancers to reach their fullest potential.