Are you ready to experience the joy of dance? Join Kelly Ray at DancePhiladelphia and discover why he’s one of the most beloved social dance teachers in the Greater Philadelphia Area. 

With extensive training in popular partner dances like Argentine Tango, Salsa, Lindy Hop, as well as traditional ballroom dancing, Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to every class. He also draws on his background in modern, jazz, ballet, and ethnic folk dances to provide a rich, diverse dance education.

Kelly founded DancePhiladelphia in the early 1990s with his late wife, Lesley Mitchell. Since then, he has dedicated his life to teaching and organizing dance events, not just in Center City but at various venues throughout the region. His classes cater to all skill levels. Though he loves all partner dances, and has a special passion for Latin Club dance and Lindy Hop/Swing, his primary passion is Argentine Tango. 

Over the past four decades, Kelly has immersed himself in Argentine Tango, frequently traveling to Buenos Aires to study with renowned Tango masters such as—his early teachers “El Turco” Jose Brahemcha,  Juan Bruno, Mingo and Esther Pugliese, Eduardo & Gloria Arquimbau, Graciela Gonzalez, and later teachers Gustavo Naveira & Olga Besio, Chicho Frumboli, Fabian Salas, and Tete & Sylvia, Miguel Zotto & Milena Plebs, Osvaldo Zotto & Lorena Ermocida. Marta Anton and Luis Grondona (and later,  El Gallego Manolo), Facundo y Kely Posadas and many others.  He brings the authentic Tango experience back to his students, offering insights into both its historical roots and contemporary evolution.

In the world of Swing, Kelly has trained with legends like Frankie Manning and Mario Robau, mastering and teaching various styles including Lindy Hop, Jitterbug, and West Coast Swing. 

His expertise in Salsa spans over 40 years, having refined his skills across the US, the Caribbean, South America, Mexico, and Europe. 

Kelly’s teaching blends the techniques of social ballroom dance with the vibrant energy of street dancing, promoting musicality, improvisation, and self-expression.

Kelly’s philosophy is simple: dancing should be fun and accessible for everyone. His clear, practical, and engaging teaching style ensures that students are up and dancing in no time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, Kelly’s classes will help you build a solid foundation and grow your confidence on the dance floor.

Join Kelly Ray at DancePhiladelphia and let the music move you. Sign up for a class today and take the first step toward a lifetime of dancing enjoyment!