Top Hat Dance Studio

At the young age of 19, Daniel McGee was inspired to open his own dance studio.  He believed that a dance studio should be a place that offered top quality instruction; remarkable social gatherings for dancers; and an overall fun experience.  He searched Northeast Philadelphia for the perfect location for his new endeavor.  In June of 1995, Top Hat Dance Studio opened its doors on Willits Road.

Daniel’s new studio quickly became a place where people not only learned great dancing but also became part of a community.  Early on, students enjoyed special parties and weekend trips which strengthened the family atmosphere.  Daniel founded Top Hat Dance Studio on the belief that Ballroom dancing should be accessible to people of all ages and walks of life.  That belief was lived out as the student body increased and true friendships were made. In fact, many of those first students are still active members of the Top Hat family today!  

In 2000, Top Hat Dance Studio expanded to Lancaster,

Pennsylvania.  The studio quickly flourished and became one of the premier Ballroom Studios in that area.  The close-knit, family environment that was the backbone of the Philadelphia location was again fostered in the Lancaster studio. 

Also in 2000, another milestone happened when Jameson Kilburn joined the ownership team and began teaching at Top Hat.  With Daniel and Jameson both at the helm, Top Hat Dance Studio became a dance school like none other.

January of 2007 saw the Philadelphia Studio moving to a larger location and its current home on Bustleton Ave.  The new space offers students the most state-of-the-art ‘floating’ ballroom floor and a sophisticated & elegant atmosphere in which to dance. 

July of 2011, found the Lancaster Studio moving to its new home in Leola, Pennsylvania.  This new Studio was also completely Top Hat; stylish & classy all wrapped into a family environment. 

Over the years, Top Hat Dance Studio has earned the recognition of ‘Top Studio’ at several dance competitions and events throughout the country.  In addition, our students and professionals have received numerous awards and medals of achievement.

Students are taught by passionate and accredited instructors who are dedicated to giving our students the best possible dance education.  Top Hat's instruction reaches beyond steps and amalgamations: students are taught the intricacies of dance and what makes each dance work.

A unique sense of family coupled with magnificent dance instruction has kept Top Hat Dance Studio thriving for 30 years!