Arden decided he was better suited to organize and direct dance shows rather than perform in them. Arden got his first break in Cleveland, where he staged floor shows in clubs operated by racketeer Moe Dalitz.
Arden's aptitude for organization and direction was evident as he chose to direct dance performances instead of participating in them. His initial success came from managing and directing floor shows at clubs owned by the influential mobster Moe Dalitz.