Ready to finally learn how to improvise in Flatfooting & Clogging?
Hitch up your britches and let’s GO!
I help adult dancers like you learn to cut a rug like you’ve been doing it since you were a kid!
I hate to break it to you, but YouTube videos aren’t gonna teach you how to improvise in this style.
And most teachers just share steps or routines, without teaching you HOW to put it all together with fluency.
There’s a better way, brothers and sisters.
What you need is clear, easy-to-follow instruction that offers you self-paced lessons and the tools to help you learn to improvise with confidence and joy.Â
Treat yourself to dance resources that give you everything you need to finally make YOUR heart sing, with community support and a personal touch.Â
Because learning dance should be fun!
MEET THE FOUNDER
Hey there, my name is Carla
Picture this: A worn wooden dance floor at a community center in the Appalachian mountains, the air filled with fiddle tunes and the sounds of dancing feet.
THAT'S WHERE MY STORY BEGINS
For three decades, I've carried the heartbeat of these mountains in my work as a performer and educator, from tiny hollers to world-renowned stages. Now, I'm bringing that rhythm to you.
Imagine yourself confidently stepping onto a festival dance floor, your feet instinctively finding the beat. With each shuffle and slide, you're connecting with a story that spans generations.
Finally - A Complete System for Learning Authentic Appalachian Dance That Actually Works
The Appalachian Flatfooting & Clogging Academy combines research-based instruction, cultural wisdom, and my signature Flatfooting Formula™ to help you become the confident, musical dancer you've always wanted to be. Because learning from someone who grew up in the tradition makes all the difference.
I've spent decades crafting my teaching methods so that you can get results.
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WHEN YOU STUDY WITH ME, YOU GET:
Self-Paced Learning
Ever felt behind trying to learn something new? Not in the Academy! Study at your own pace with organized tutorials and a clear path to follow. Review the lessons as many times as you need to. And get individual guidance on how to modify steps for your personal tastes and challenges.
Personal Support
You’re not on your own when you study with me. Get personalized instruction and feedback from me and participate in a warm community of your fellow dancers.
Cultural Context
Learning from those who grew up in the tradition is important, and I’ll help you develop the “big picture” understanding of the dance form with stories, tunes, and the kind of cultural perspectives only someone from the mountains can provide.
STOP WATCHING, START DANCING...
Transform from Confused Dabbler to Confident Dancer in 3 Simple Steps
Step 1: FIND Your Perfect Learning Path
Choose the right starting point for your dance journey, whether you're a complete beginner or ready to refine your improvisation skills.
Step 2: Master the Fundamentals Your Way
Learn at your own pace through bite-sized, brain-friendly lessons that build confidence step by step using our signature Flatfooting Formula.
Step 3: Dance with Joy & Freedom
Feel the music flow naturally through your feet as you confidently hop up to dance at festivals, jams, or your own living room whenever your heart desires.
AS SEENÂ IN/AT:
FIND YOUR DANCE PATH HERE
See which offerings are right for you…
Let's get you up and dancing to the tune, no matter where you are on your journey! Whether you're reconnecting with your heritage or diving in to learning more about this beautiful art form, I've created a clear, step-by-step approach that works with your natural learning style. With 8 generations of Kentucky tradition behind every step, you'll learn to dance authentically to any tune—no matter where in the world you live.
Explore the options →MEET YOUR KENTUCKY DANCE GUIDE
Discover the story behind the steps...
When your teacher is as passionate about mason jars and mamaws as she is about stepping to the beat, you know you're getting the real deal. My journey from Eastern Kentucky's front porches to international stages has shaped a teaching style that makes these traditions accessible to everyone. Behind every step I teach lies 8 generations of cultural wisdom, 30 years of performance experience, and a genuine love for both the steps and soul of this dance form.Â
my dancing journey →
Joining the Appalachian Flatfooting & Clogging Academy was a leap of faith, but it turned out to be the most enriching decision of my retired life...
I had fears about joining the program because I'm 67. I wondered, “Am I too old to do this? Am I fit enough?”
I encourage anyone doubting themselves to take the leap, because the rewards are immeasurable.
CHERYL / AFCA STUDENT
I was overwhelmed with grief from losing my husband when I joined Carla’s Appalachian Flatfooting & Clogging Academy and it’s been one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself.
Despite my age and a past injury, the patient teaching and supportive community helped me regain confidence and joy through dance.
Without the Academy, I might still be in the dumps. I’m living proof it's never too late to heal through the power of dance!
DIANN / AFCA STUDENT
DANCE LIKE YOUR GREAT-GRANNY'S WATCHING
Appalachian Flatfooting Quick Start Class
With these four steps + the Flatfooting Formula plucked straight from my signature program (and a bit of practice on your part), you’ll be well on your way to dancing like you were born in a holler!
