Texas two-stepping is more than just a dance—it’s a Texas tradition that continues to bring generations together on the dance floor. From historic dance halls to modern competitions, the rhythm of the two-step remains one of the most iconic parts of the state’s cultural identity.
When asked how viewers can get involved, Coffey encouraged participation in person or through her organization.
On We Are Austin, Sierra Waggoner welcomed Beth Coffey of Dancin Austin and musician Tom Lewis to talk about the history of the Texas Two Step, its cultural importance, and the upcoming Texas Two Step Dance Competition at Sagebrush.
On We Are Austin, Sierra Waggoner welcomed Beth Coffey of Dancin Austin and musician Tom Lewis to talk about the history of the Texas Two Step, its cultural importance, and the upcoming Texas Two Step Dance Competition at Sagebrush.
For Coffey, keeping the tradition alive is deeply personal.
“Texas two step is a Texas dance tradition. Something that’s very, very, very important to my heart is keeping those traditions alive,” she said.
She explained that the heart of the dance is connection and live music.
“It’s just a good tradition in Texas, you know, it happens all over the Texas dancehall scene,” he said.
“We got live music. We got people dancing with people. Yes, they get to dance together. No robots involved. This is what makes it so much fun. So that’s my job. I teach people how to do it.”
Beyond teaching, Coffey emphasized that the event is also about preserving the spaces where this culture thrives.
“That’s right. We’re putting on a dance competition with Western Fidelity. That’s the music and Tom,” she said. “Texas dance hall preservation is throwing the show, and we’re raising money for them. We’re going to have a dance competition. I hope you’re excited. We’re going to work on some moves. We’re going to have trophies. We’re going to have a great time dancing to live music with live humans, and we’re all going to get to work together to raise money to keep those dance halls alive.”
“Texas two step is a Texas dance tradition. Something that’s very, very, very important to my heart is keeping those traditions alive,” she said.
She also spoke about what she calls “social bravery”—the courage to show up, connect, and participate.
“Well, I love it because I think that social bravery is something that we definitely need these days,” she said. “I really like working with people and I really like working with live musicians, especially really good musicians.”
Tom Lewis highlighted the importance of the tradition from a musician’s perspective, especially within Texas dance halls.
“It’s just a good tradition in Texas, you know, it happens all over the Texas dancehall scene,” he said.
“It’s everybody. So even if you’ve only danced one time, or maybe you’ve never danced, show up. We’re having a fun time.”
He added that the event is meant to be inclusive for everyone, regardless of experience level.
“It’s everybody. So even if you’ve only danced one time, or maybe you’ve never danced, show up. We’re having a fun time.”
For those more experienced on the dance floor, the competition offers a chance to showcase their skills.
“If you’re super experienced, I challenge you to come out and show. We have a panel of judges. They’re all going to judge from how great you look, how great your moves are, to your energy,” he said.
Tom also emphasized the welcoming spirit behind the tradition.
“Everybody’s welcome. Everybody’s welcome. It is the Austin Texas way.”
“I learned a little bit of how to two-step, but then I graduated and grew up, and you can go dance to the music, but they’re not two-stepping like they are here in Texas, and it’s the best part of the culture.”
Coffey added that the tradition is deeply rooted in Texas identity and community life.
“And why do you think it is so important to support and preserve these dance halls?” she said. “They’re just a part of Texas, and I think everyone enjoys going of all ages, and it’s a fun thing to do if you grow up around Texas.”
She reflected on how uniquely Texan the dance culture is compared to other places.
“I learned a little bit of how to two-step, but then I graduated and grew up, and you can go dance to the music, but they’re not two-stepping like they are here in Texas, and it’s the best part of the culture.”
When asked how viewers can get involved, Coffey encouraged participation in person or through her organization.
“Well, I love it because I think that social bravery is something that we definitely need these days,” she said. “I really like working with people and I really like working with live musicians, especially really good musicians.”
“You’re welcome to reach out to me. My business is Dancin Austin. You’re also welcome to just come to the Sagebrush on Saturday night. We are open for business for everybody that wants to come.”
The segment wrapped with a live demonstration on air with Sierra Waggoner , as Coffey led a few two-step moves and invited viewers to experience the tradition firsthand!
The segment wrapped with a live demonstration on air, as Coffey led a few two-step moves and invited viewers to experience the tradition firsthand!
“You’re welcome to reach out to me. My business is Dancin Austin. You’re also welcome to just come to the Sagebrush on Saturday night. We are open for business for everybody that wants to come.”