Welcome! Tell me about yourself.

Dance Styles

West Coast Swing

Tap

Musical Theater

A Note to New Students

Hello and welcome! I’m Lyla, and I’m absolutely delighted to have you here. I’m a lifelong dancer and a well-educated teacher, and I love helping my students achieve their dance goals. 

I have classes for students who are brand new to dance, who are coming back to dance after a long break. I also have high school and college students looking for drop in style classes to keep up with training in between shows or who are getting ready for auditions and competitions.  

In my classes, I create an environment where everyone feels supported, encouraged, and empowered to embrace their love for dance. 

The number one complaint I hear from adults is that they left dance. But you know, once a dancer always a dancer. There is still a place for you. 

As your dedicated instructor, I am committed to helping you discover or rediscover the joy of movement and reach your fullest potential.

To show my appreciation for you choosing to dance with me, here’s a little gift: use the coupon code FIRSTCLASS5OFF to get $5 off your first class. It’s just my way of saying thank you for trusting me with your dance journey.

I can’t wait to dance with you and see the magic we’ll create together on the dance floor.

Warmest wishes,

Lyla

Weekly Dance Classes in Tampa Bay

West Coast Swing

Every Tuesday at 7 pm at District Dance Academy in Clearwater, Florida. New to West Coast Swing? Try our Crash Course!

Beginner Tap

Wednesdays at 6:00 pm at Patricia Ann Dance Studio in Dunedin, Florida.

Intermediate-Advanced Tap

Wednesdays at 8:00 pm at Patricia Ann Dance Studio in Dunedin, Florida.

All Levels Musical Theater

Wednesdays at 7:00 pm at Patricia Ann Dance Studio in Dunedin, Florida.

About Lyla Ruth

Lyla, a lifelong dancer and instructor, has left an indelible mark on the stage with her unwavering passion for dance and musical theater. Her extensive repertoire spans popular musicals like Footloose, Grease, and original works, collaborating with local schools and theaters. As an active supporter of the arts, she has hosted free online classes and spearheaded successful fundraisers.

While Lyla is involved in various projects, her heart beats for swing dance. Her show "It Don’t Mean a Thing, A Tribute to Swing" drew 1000 attendees in 2021, showcasing her dedication to this art form. Lyla's commitment to learning is unwavering; she recently completed teacher training in two dance forms and is an apprentice teacher at national West Coast Swing events. 

She is also ITAPONLINE Level 2 certified, endorsed by renowned tap dancer Hillary Marie. In 2023, she was recognized as Tampa Bay’s Best Choreographer. Lyla firmly believes in the unifying power of live entertainment, striving to create an inclusive stage where everyone is welcome. Through her exceptional productions, educational initiatives, and outstanding performances, she empowers individuals to achieve their dance dreams and lead happier lives.

Working with Lyla

  • "I enjoyed every minute of the workshop! Not only does Lyla bring joy and energy to the floor, she also creates a welcoming and safe environment to try something new and different. I loooved that she also brought in the history of tap. #TheMoreYouKnow. I left with techniques to intentionally apply to my dance and I’m inspired to dust off my tap shoes. Thank you, Lyla!"

    -LB

  • "Lyla is one of the best producers that I have worked with. She is a dynamic, dynamite performer and choreographer, and that artistry carries itself through to her productions. Her passion and care for her team, and for the product she is creating is beyond admirable."

    -AA

  • “I have seen just about all of Lyla’s shows that she has produced and been a part of and they have all been amazing!”

    -PR

  • “I thought the workshop was so much fun! I especially loved learning the history of tap dancing! What meant the most to me, though, was how encouraging and welcoming you were. It was as if everyone did everything perfectly and could not make a mistake. It really encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone, without fear of being judged. Thank you for the wonderful experience!”

    -KJ

  • "My daughter Jillian started working with Lyla in January of 2023 to help with her technique for her tap solo during competition season. She has taught her so much more than technique. Jilly has a lot more confidence on stage and her taps sound so much clearer. Lyla breaks it down in a way that just makes sense and she has been such a positive light. It has been the best keeping Jillian tapping regularly. In addition to her tap private sessions, Jilly joins in on an intermediate/advanced adult class to learn new things and progress on her Tap journey! Every time Jilly gets done with a class with Lyla, she says she loved the class. She loves the way Lyla teaches. She learned something new, and she can’t wait to go back. We hope to stay working with Lyla as long as she’ll teach Jillian!"

    -RR