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Arthur Murray: A Legacy of Dance Excellence

Arthur Murray International, Inc., America’s second oldest franchise organization, stands as a global beacon in the world of social dance. With a presence spanning across the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Europe, the Middle East, Japan, Africa, and Australia, Arthur Murray's Franchised Dance Studios uphold a century-long tradition of teaching the world to dance.

The story of Arthur Murray begins in 1912 with its namesake, Arthur Murray, a visionary who transformed the landscape of dance education. Murray’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident in his innovative use of direct mail advertising, a novel concept at the time. His strategy of selling dance lessons via mail, step by step, revolutionized the industry and set a new standard for marketing.

Murray’s ingenuity didn’t stop there. In March 1920, he orchestrated the world’s first radio broadcast of live dance music, showcasing his flair for using cutting-edge technology to enhance the dance experience. His studio's influence grew as Arthur Murray’s Dance Studios became a staple on luxury steamship cruises, introducing popular dances such as the “Lambeth Walk” and “The Big Apple” to the public. The latter dance, in particular, catapulted Murray’s single studio into a vast network of dance schools.

The 1940s marked a significant milestone for the Arthur Murray brand. Singer Betty Hutton’s hit song “Arthur Murray Taught Me Dancing In A Hurry,” recorded with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra for the film “The Fleet’s In,” brought widespread recognition. By 1946, Arthur Murray’s Dance Studios had expanded to 72 locations across the United States.

In the 1950s, Murray was quick to embrace the burgeoning popularity of Latin dances. His dedication to staying ahead of trends led to conventions in Cuba where his instructors gained firsthand knowledge of the latest Latin dance styles. This foresight ensured that Arthur Murray’s studios remained at the forefront of dance innovation.

July 1950 saw Arthur Murray’s entry into television with a series of fifteen-minute spots on CBS, followed by a half-hour summer series on ABC titled “Arthur Murray Dance Party.” The show’s immense success led to a twelve-year run on national television, with nearly 100 programs aired and sponsorship from General Foods. This television exposure further solidified the Arthur Murray brand’s place in American pop culture.

Upon Arthur and Kathryn Murray’s retirement in 1964, a new era began. The company was acquired by a group of franchisees who revitalized the brand with fresh leadership while preserving its core values. Under this new management, Arthur Murray Franchised Dance Studios have continued to evolve, adapting to the ever-changing cultural landscape and maintaining their status as the world’s largest dance instruction organization.

Arthur Murray’s influence extends beyond dance studios. The company’s instructors have played roles in numerous films, including classics like “Dirty Dancing,” “Flashdance,” and “Saturday Night Fever,” and have been integral to major productions in Hollywood and Broadway. Their presence is also felt in national magazines such as Vogue and Sports Illustrated, and in memorable advertising campaigns, from Gap’s Khaki Swing commercials to dancing M&Ms.

Arthur Murray International remains committed to advancing the art of dance, with senior management actively involved in competitive dance and the push for ballroom dancing to be recognized as an Olympic sport. Each of the approximately 250 Arthur Murray Franchised Dance Studios worldwide is independently owned and operated by individuals who have worked their way up through the ranks, ensuring a deep-rooted understanding of the studio’s operations and a steadfast commitment to its values.

Through a legacy of innovation, excellence, and dedication, Arthur Murray continues to inspire and teach the world to dance, embodying the spirit of excellence that defines its storied history.