No, you don't. Most people take the classes on their own personal growth journey to learn a new skill, develop a new hobby and healthy habits, and to meet new people!

In class we rotate partners every few minutes so everyone gets a chance to connect and dance with everyone.

Also, I personally dance with each and every student each class, and while we're out on the town dancing to offer personalized feedback. You get the benefits of a private lesson, but in a group setting in real time while you're on the dance floor!

Unless you've had a high level of training with technical aspects, I recommend starting with a level 1 class. Great technique is taught from the beginning here, so you're learning the correct way the first time. Even experienced dancers who have been dancing for years consistently take our beginner class, and get a lot of value from it.

From footwork, to specific hand preps, body posture, details in connection and styling - all of it is covered in depth so you feel the success of dancing with a partner quickly and easily!

If you'd like to learn combinations with quick changes of direction, and are ready for a challenge then level 2 is for you!

In partner dancing, there are two roles: the lead, who initiates the movements, and the follow, who responds to those cues. Traditionally, these roles were divided by gender, but in our academy, anyone can choose either role—or even learn both!

If you’re not sure which feels right, think about your learning style: do you enjoy taking the initiative and guiding the partnership, or do you prefer interpreting and responding in the moment? Both roles are equally fun, creative, and important. Many students try one role first and later explore the other to become more versatile dancers.

Ultimately, the best role is the one that makes you feel most comfortable and excited to dance!

Many beginners find bachata a little easier to start with because the steps are slower, simpler, and more repetitive, which gives you more time to feel the rhythm. Salsa, on the other hand, is a bit faster and more energetic, with more turns and patterns to learn.

That said, the “easiest” style really depends on your personality and what excites you! If you enjoy smooth, sensual movement, bachata might feel more natural. If you love upbeat music and high energy, salsa could be a better fit.

Most students try both and discover they enjoy each for different reasons—and learning one makes the other easier too.

Many neurodivergent students choose our academy, and we understand that starting something new can feel intimidating. In fact, most people who come to dance classes experience some level of anxiety around learning to dance. Feel comforted knowing that many of the students are just like you!

Our classes are designed to be nurturing, fun, and safe, so you can grow at your own pace. If group classes still feel overwhelming, I recommend starting with a private lesson to get a sense of what to expect, and then easing into a group class when you feel ready.

Everyone here is so welcoming and friendly—you’ll quickly feel at home and want to stay!

Yes! You need them! :) Not only do they protect your knees, joints, and body (no tears in your meniscus please!), you will spin, turn, and dance easier and better! Sliding and gliding will make you a better partner, too.

As an ambassador for my favorite dance shoe brand, Fuego, I recommend starting with them!

They are my favorite for a reason - a minimalist and fashionable dance sneaker that takes you from city sidewalk to dance floor in comfort.

Click the links below for 10% off!

• Fuego Dance Shoes

• Code: LASBDA10
  

If you prefer a classic style I recommend these as a comfortable and reasonable starter shoe:​

• Very Fine Social Shoe - Ladies' Adjusttable Straps with Low Heel

• Very Fine Social Shoe - Men's Classic Leather Dance Shoe

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Our LA Salsa and Bachata dance classes are located in Santa Monica. It's near West Los Angeles, Brentwood, Westwood, Culver City, and Mar Vista. I make sure our space is a clean, welcoming environment for your comfort and safety.

The dance classes are easy access from Beverly Hills, Venice, West Hollywood, Mid-City, Westchester, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista, and anywhere on the Westside (although many students travel far and wide!)

Address: 1247 Lincoln Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Several times every month I personally take my students out on the town! It's one of the things that sets this learning experience apart. You will get personal attention every step of the way - from class to dance floor.

LA is one of the best cities in the world to dance salsa and bachata. There's a different event or place to go every evening, and you will always find a partner out dancing even if you're not out with the academy.

Curating the best places in town, you will fulfill your visions of what your new life as a dancer out on the town in LA looks like! From dancing in places with live bands, to speakeasies, sunsets on the beach with your dance family, to the most popular spots in town, to dance festivals, you will discover all of the best places to dance with your new friends from class!