Thursday nights at The Heretic in Atlanta are more than just another evening at a bar. As the disco ball casts sparkles across the dance floor, a diverse crowd of around forty people are captivated by Terence Ng, a passionate instructor guiding them through the steps of an advanced line dance. “It’s okay if you mess up,” Ng encourages with a smile, setting a relaxed and welcoming tone for everyone learning the choreography. As the night progresses, the energy on the dance floor escalates, with the DJ seamlessly mixing line dances with the rhythms of country two-step, creating an infectious atmosphere.
This vibrant scene is the creation of Toni Ralston, who founded DanceOut Atlanta, a unique organization centered around the queer community that offers free country dance lessons multiple times a week at both The Heretic and the Atlanta Eagle. Ng has been a driving force as an instructor since 2018, ensuring there are classes for every skill level, from absolute beginners to seasoned dancers. And it’s not just about line dancing; DanceOut also teaches the popular country two-step, and you don’t even need a partner to join in the fun. Beyond the local dance floors, DanceOut Atlanta fosters a strong community, organizing trips to conventions like “Hoedown in the Dunes” in Saugatuck, Michigan, where members can expand their dance repertoire, learn new moves, and connect with fellow country dance enthusiasts from across the country.
Line dancing class led by Terence Ng of DanceOut Atlanta at The Heretic bar in Atlanta
DanceOut Atlanta: More Than Just Line Dancing Lessons
Ng notes that while the classes were already popular before, the pandemic marked a significant turning point, boosting attendance and enthusiasm. He credits part of this surge to the cultural impact of Beyoncé’s Renaissance and Cowboy Carter albums. “I think Beyoncé’s Renaissance and Cowboy Carter, especially, have really boosted this sense of safety and comfort around country and queerness together,” Ng explains. “I think these mainstream things have really brought people to it to at least try it out.” While DanceOut Atlanta proudly serves the LGBTQ+ community, it extends a warm welcome to everyone, including allies and individuals from all walks of life who are interested in exploring country dance in a supportive environment.
Atlanta’s queer bars have a rich and storied history of country dancing. In the 1980s, Deana Collins opened Deana’s One Mo’ Time on Cheshire Bridge, later known as Hoedowns, which became a landmark country dancing destination until its closure in the early 2000s. Other venues like Wild Mustang and 3 Legged Cowboy (both now closed) continued the tradition. The Heretic took up the mantle in 2011, establishing its own Thursday country night, keeping the spirit alive. “Deana and her partner, Sheila, are still around in Atlanta. She’s still kicking it and having a good time,” Ng shares, expressing gratitude for her foundational contributions. “And thank God for her that she created this whole thing.”
Enthusiastic participants line dancing with DanceOut Atlanta at The Heretic, Atlanta
Community and Connection on the Dance Floor
For the devoted regulars of DanceOut Atlanta, the allure goes beyond just learning dance steps; it’s deeply rooted in the sense of community fostered within the group. Marcus Fleischhauer, a retiree, has been part of Atlanta’s queer dance scene since the 90s, while others are more recent converts. Eileen Pagan, a trauma therapist and professional dance skater, discovered DanceOut in February 2023 during a first date two-step lesson. Although the date was fleeting, the dance lesson sparked a lasting passion. “It was the first time I had ever seen two queer people dancing to country music together in a safe place,” Pagan recounts. Becoming a regular attendee, Pagan found more than just dance steps; they found belonging. “Whenever I come to DanceOut, I feel like I’m included just because I’m walking on the door and I’m curious. And that’s really cool to be accepted in that way,” Pagan expresses, highlighting the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
Close-up of cowboy boots and dance steps during line dancing at DanceOut Atlanta, Atlanta
Fitz Dement’s introduction to line dancing in a gay bar was initially met with disbelief. Last year, when a friend suggested it, he thought it was a joke. However, after attending a class, he was immediately captivated by line dancing and soon expanded his interests to include two-step and country waltzes. For Dement, the appeal is clear and deeply personal: “I can’t go up to my hometown and dance with a man, and I can here,” he states. “I could dance with everybody here.” This sentiment underscores the profound importance of DanceOut Atlanta as a safe and affirming space where individuals can freely express themselves and connect with others through the joy of dance and shared community.
Couple enjoying country two-step dancing at DanceOut Atlanta event in Atlanta
Joyful community and laughter during a DanceOut Atlanta line dancing session in Atlanta
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