A safe space to explore and celebrate the beauty, technique and artistry of all kinds of movement for all bodies.

Jitterbug is a comprehensive movement studio, located in the heart of downtown Oakland (an Arts & Entertainment district) in Garrett County, Maryland. We offer a diverse range of movement classes, workshops and intensives, including various styles of dance, yoga and wellness classes, and movement as it relates to theatre arts. Jitterbug is open and available to all people, regardless of age, size, gender, race, or orientation.

A note from our founder, M. Kendall Ludwig

As a lifelong lover of dance as an art form and creative physical expression, I wanted to bring something unique to Oakland’s Arts & Entertainment district.

My creative firm, CurlyRed, has been located in this area for 7 years (and in Baltimore for 9 years before that). Garrett County, MD is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family, but it has its challenges. This is especially true in the colder months, when there are less options for physical activity. This has contributed to larger community health problems, like obesity and addiction. Jitterbug can help address these issues, while offering diverse and inclusive classes, workshops and intensives currently unavailable in this area. My desire is to promote well-being, both physically and mentally, through the artistry of dance.

Weekly Classes • Fall 2024

Fall Jitterbug Movement Studio Weekly Classes through Mid-December

Jitterbug is a safe space for all ages & bodies. Classes can be purchased individually, or for a slight discount with a class pack.

Register for Classes

Available classes are below:


Mondays at 5:30
Level 1 Pilates
Adults | Instructor: Krysta Huxford

Toning, flexibility, better posture, more efficient movement, mind/body connection are just a few benefits from practicing Pilates. Mat Pilates is a series of exercises performed without the use of equipment, to stretch and strengthen the body. Focus is primarily on the muscles of the Powerhouse, which is defined as a 6-inch band around the entire mid section and supported by the booty and inner thighs. Pilates is typically practiced in bare feet If preferred, participants may wear yoga type socks with grippy soles. Wearing comfortable exercise clothing that allows for freedom of movement is recommended.

Tuesdays at 5:30pm
Self-Love Yoga
Adults | Instructor: Ayla Wagers

In this empowering class series, participants will embark on a transformative journey to cultivate a positive mindset and boost their confidence through the practice of yoga. This class is designed for individuals of all levels, including beginners, who want to enhance their mental and emotional well-being while developing a strong and confident yoga practice.

Wednesday Mornings at 8:30am
Gentle Morning Yoga
Instructor: Jen Virts

In this class we will gently wake up the body with stretches, basic yoga poses, and breathing exercises. No yoga experience necessary. This is a great way to start your morning while giving your body the attention it deserves. All levels are welcome.

Wednesdays at 5:30
Level 2 Pilates
Adults | Instructor: Krysta Huxford

Level 2 will deepen the Pilates principles and offer more challenging flowing movements. Participants should have some experience with Pilates fundamentals and/or have taken at least 5 mat sessions previously.

Thursday Mornings at 9am
Mini & Me Movement
Instructor: Jen Virts

In this class parents can join their little ones ages 2-4, in games, songs, and movement exercises that will work on your child's coordination while having fun. Students will learn the basics of dance alongside their parent or caretaker.

Thursday Nights at 5:30pm
African Dance
Instructor: Shawnna Stringfellow

Come explore some African dances and movements from various countries in Africa. We will have fun while allowing our bodies to be free and expressive with the sound of drums and also learn to listen to cues within the music. Pre-registration encouraged, but not required. All levels welcome.

Saturdays at 9am
Ballet & Modern for Kids
5-12 Years Old | Instructor: Jen Virts

Explore the basics of ballet and modern dance and have fun moving your body. No dance experience needed, all levels welcome!

Saturdays at 10am
Adult Beginner Ballet
Adults and Teens 13+ | Instructor: Jen Virts

While learning beginner level vocabulary, this class will explore the basics of ballet from its roots to increase flexibility and balance. Whether you’ve always wanted to learn ballet, or you’re brushing up on skills you learned in your childhood, this class is for you. Comfortable clothing and either ballet shoes or socks will allow you to move comfortably through this low stress introduction to ballet. All levels welcome.

Saturdays at 11am
Adult Tap
Adults and Teens 13+ | Instructor: M. Kendall Ludwig

Learn the basic movements of tap, with barre and floor work, then learn a combination with the moves we’ve practiced. Wear comfortable clothes and tap shoes (flat or heeled). All levels welcome.


Workshops & Intensives

We hold special workshops and intensives at Moonshadow in McHenry, Our Town Theatre in Oakland and other local establishments, taught by regional talent in a variety of styles.

These workshops hold about 30 students and will be held on a first-come, first-serve basis. The best way to secure a spot for our workshops is to sign up for our mailing list.

Register for Classes

Upcoming workshops are below:


Tuesdays — October 15th, 22nd, 29th at 7pm
East-Coast Swing for Couples - October Session
Instructor: M. Kendall Ludwig

Kendall will teach a 3 one hour lessons, going over the basics of East-Coast Swing dance. There will be basic holds, footwork, turns and more, so you and your partner will finish this course ready to tear up the dance floor! No experience required, just a desire to have fun and willingness to learn something new!

Thursdays — November 7th, 14th, 21st at 7pm
East-Coast Swing for Couples - November Session
Instructor: M. Kendall Ludwig

Kendall will teach a 3 one hour lessons, going over the basics of East-Coast Swing dance. There will be basic holds, footwork, turns and more, so you and your partner will finish this course ready to tear up the dance floor! No experience required, just a desire to have fun and willingness to learn something new!

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024 | 7-9PM
Line Dancing at Moonshadow
Teens & Adults | Instructor: Terry Novak-Whalen

Once again, we're bringing you our super popular Line Dancing with Jitterbug instructor Terry Novak-Whalen! This special event at Moonshadow will kick off with a line dancing lesson, followed by an open dance, We will get you laughing and your heart pumping. Boots are not required, just a willingness to have fun. While you're there, you can get a delicious meal from Moonshadow's scratch kitchen!

$10 at the door includes 1 drink ticket. No reservations needed for dancing. Please call 240-442-5542 if you'd like to reserve a table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the cost?
A: Classes are $15, but 4-class packs are available for $56, and 8-class packs are $104 (best value). Class packs cannot be used for Workshops & Intensives. Pricing for Workshops & Intensives will be priced separately.

Q: How big are the classes?
A: Jitterbug’s classrooms can hold up to 6 dancers per class. We encourage you to register early to ensure your spot. Our Workshops & Intensives will be held at Our Town Theatre in Oakland, and can accommodate up to 30 students.

Q: What’s your wellness policy?
A: The safety of our instructors and students are extremely important to us. If you’re not feeling well, please stay home. We encourage you to follow the most current CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We will be disinfecting our studio after every class. Masking before, during, and after class is optional for both instructors and students.

Q: What sort of body type is ideal for Jitterbug’s classes?
A: Any and all body styles and types are welcome here! Please let your teacher know if you have an injury or physical limitation.

Q: What sort of attire do I need to wear to class?
A: Unless the instructor indicates otherwise, you can simply wear clothing that’s comfortable and easy to move in. Footwear depends on the style of movement, and the teacher will let you know what you need! We highly recommend Discount Dance Supply for purchasing affordable dance attire and footwear.

Q: When should I arrive for class?
A: We recommend arriving 10-15 minutes before the start of class to check-in, warm up and grab water if you need it.

Q: I’m at the CurlyRed/Jitterbug Building, how do I get inside?
A: Our entrance is the door off of the alley to the right of the front of the building.

Q: Where do I park?
A: There’s ample 2-hour street parking on 2nd and Alder Streets, and the Oakland Town Parking Lot is right across the street.

Q: What about competitions and performances?
A: At Jitterbug, our emphasis is learning the technique and artistry of dance. With that in mind, we will not be participating in dance competitions or holding performances or recitals for our dancers. That being said, there will be opportunities for parents and family members to attend Open Marley Nights to see what our students are learning, depending on the interest of the class.

Join our mailing list.

The best way to stay up-to-date on what we’re doing and to learn about special events is to sign up for our Jitterbug email newsletter. We promise not to overload your inbox!

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If you have questions or concerns, or just want to learn more, please email us at info@dothejitterbug.com or fill out the following:


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