Dance is a timeless art form, and Got2Lindy Dance Studios has proven that over its 20 years in business in the Hudson Valley. Based out of Kingston and Marlboro, the dance studios are led by locals Chester and Linda Freeman, who opened their studio in 2004 after their shared hobby evolved into an unshakeable passion for dance.
For the couple, 2024 marks not only the 20th anniversary of their business, but also their 25th wedding anniversary. As co-owners and a teaching duo, the Freemans affirm that the secret to their success in the dance industry has been their ability to work as a team, both in and out of the studio. After giving up her corporate career as an executive director, Linda knew the transition to being a business owner would offer many challenges, but doing it all with Chester made the process seamless.
While Linda brought her extensive business and marketing skills to the table, Chester offered his talents as a musician and choreographer, and the two have thrived together in business ever since.
“We genuinely love teaching together,” says Linda. “What makes us so good at it is that I’m the slow learner and Chester is quick, so we understand both learning styles. We also learned as adults, so we understand the fear of learning something new. We get it. We’ve been there. Neither of us knew how to dance until we learned how, and we don’t expect anyone to have anything but a collection of left feet.”
The atmosphere of support that beginner dancers feel at Got2Lindy is all thanks to the Freemans’ positive attitudes and understanding encouragement. At the dance studios, no one needs to bring a partner or have any prior experience to start their dance journey. In fact, many of the students at the Marlboro and Kingston studios are adults who are in big life transitions, whether they recently moved to the Valley, just got married or divorced, or are new empty nesters. Anyone at any age or ability is invited to try something new and have fun at Got2Lindy.
When you learn dance at Got2Lindy, you also learn about the history surrounding the art form. The Ulster County studios specialize in Lindy Hop, the authentic form of swing dance that was born in the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem. The Freemans always teach this dance with the intention of honoring all those who pioneered the moves and music of the swing era.
From private Lindy Hop lessons to group swing classes and workshops to big monthly dances with live bands in Kingston, the Ulster County brand probably has exactly what you’re looking for. Got2Lindy was even named the best wedding dance studio by The Knot three years in a row for 2022, 2023, and 2024. In the summer, you can catch the dance studio at Bard’s annual Spiegeltent, and year-round in arts education programs at neighboring schools.
View this post on Instagram
Although the Freemans have taught gigs all over the world, the beating heart of their dance endeavors has always been in the Hudson Valley. From hosting a seven-part TV series on PANDA TV out of Red Hook to operating as dance consultants for a German film that was shot in the region, the couple couldn’t imagine teaching what they’re passionate about anywhere else.
“Our classes and events are like that old TV show Cheers, only without the booze and with a lot more laughs. We give people someplace to go where everyone knows their name,” says Linda.
In celebration of their 20th year teaching dance at Got2Lindy Dance Studios, the Freemans are hosting their big monthly swing dance on Saturday, October 5. All are welcome to lace up their dancing shoes and give a beginner lesson a go to the live music of the Swing Shift Orchestra.
Got2Lindy Dance Studios are located at 97 Broadway in Kingston and at 39 Bloom Street in Marlboro.
Related: MLE X Chambers Vintage Is a Sustainable Fashion Destination in Saugerties
