We strive to ensure that our students learn proper technique and fundamentals so that they can progress successfully in each class that we offer as well as on the social dance floor. If you are unsure which class is right for you, please reach out to us and we will happily provide you with some guidance!
We offer three different 4-week beginner sessions each month (Salsa On1, Salsa On2, and Bachata). Our Level 1 sessions are designed to teach students the fundamentals so they can get on the dance floor quickly.
Our Level 2 and Level 3 classes require students to already know the material from the prior level. For example, students should be proficient in the material from Level 1 before taking Level 2. Because Level 2 is a higher level, we do not reteach material that is covered in our Level 1 classes.
What should I wear/bring to class?
We recommend wearing clothing and shoes that you are comfortable moving in for an hour. We also recommend wearing shoes with soles that allow you to move easily on the floor (ones with soles that are not "sticky"). You may also want to bring a bottle of water - it’s not uncommon to sweat!
Can I retake level 1?
YES! We recommend students focus on developing a strong foundation. Most students decide to take Level 1 more than once to feel comfortable before they move up to Level 2. Our motto is that you can never work on the fundamentals too much!
All retakes of a Level 1 class are 50% off. Please let us know before you register again so we can provide you with a discount code.
What is the age range of your students?
Our group classes are for adults. Young adults 15+ are welcome in our classes provided their attendance has been approved by an instructor and they are mature enough to attend an adult class. Parents are always welcome to stay and watch.
DO I NEED A PARTNER TO TAKE CLASS?
No partner is necessary to take our classes! We rotate partners during class because dancing with different people facilitates learning and makes students better leads/follows in their social dancing. If you do come to class with a partner, we still recommend rotating partners during class even though it is not required. If you do not wish to rotate partners, please let the instructor know that at the beginning of class so that we can accommodate your request.
What can I expect during class?
Unless otherwise noted in a class description, our class structure is a mix of footwork and partnerwork. The first 10-20 minutes of class is footwork and the remainder of the class is partnerwork. We welcome students' questions and strive to make classes both informative and fun!
How can I improve faster?
Practice, practice, practice!!! The best way to improve is to dance more. Attend classes regularly. Practice at home. Go out social dancing when possible. Listen to music (Salsa, Bachata, etc.) often so that you can build an understanding of how songs are structured and increase your musicality.
Private lessons are always an option as well and can exponentially increase students' growth because an instructor can focus on a particular student’s individual needs.
Why do we always start our classes with footwork if salsa and bachata are social dances? Here are a few reasons:
(1) Timing Proficiency - Learning to be on time with the music is an essential skill necessary for successful partner dancing. Footwork helps dancers learn to hone their timing skills. (2) Adapt Easily to Different Tempos - Dancing footwork to different tempos of music helps students learn to adapt their movements quickly to different speeds of music. This is also a necessary skill for partner dancing. (3) Musicality - Footwork helps students develop an understanding of the music and learn to dance to the different musical nuances in each song. This skill can then be applied easier when partner dancing. (4) Balance - Footwork helps students develop their balance. Even in partner dancing, each dancer should be in control of his/her own body. Good balance as a dancer is essential for spinning and for successful movement while partner dancing. (5) Foot and Ankle Control - Footwork helps students learn and develop proper foot and ankle control. Movement begins from the ground up!
DANCE SHOES
DO I HAVE TO BUY DANCE SHOES TO TAKE CLASS?
While dance shoes are always a great option, they are not necessary for beginner dancers and they can be expensive. We suggest beginner students make sure they enjoy class before incurring the expense of buying dance shoes. If you love it and decide to stick with it, then we do suggest you buy a pair of dance shoes as proper shoes are helpful for movement as well as injury prevention.
Do I have to wear heels?
NO! You do not have to wear heels. While many female dancers (and some male dancers) wear heels, it is certainly not required. We also do not recommend that you buy a pair of dance heels and start dancing in them right away. Heels change how your body works when dancing - your center, what muscles you use, etc. If you are used to wearing heels regularly outside of class then you may be ok dancing in a pair of heels right away. However, if you are not used to wearing heels regularly, we suggest strengthening your ankles and feet first to ensure you have the stability and strength necessary to dance in them safely. We do not want any injuries!
If you have questions about heels or about strengthening your ankles/feet to prevent injury, please let us know and we will be happy to answer your questions!
Where can I buy DANCE shoes?
If you have questions about shoes, please ask us! Each of our instructors have different preferences and perspectives. We are happy to share our thoughts and opinions on what we like and what works for us! A few popular dance shoe companies are below. This is by no means a complete list and there are many other companies out there.
Burju - This is a popular company with many different shoes for both men and women. burjushoes.com/
GFranco - This is a popular company with many different shoes for both men and women. gfrancoshoes.com/
Fuego - This company specializes in dance sneakers for men and women that you can also wear outside of the studio. fuegoshoes.com/
Ballroom Variety - This website has a variety of ballroom shoes from different brands. www.danceshopper.com/
SOCIAL DANCING
WHERE CAN I SOCIAL DANCe IN RICHMOND?
There are a variety of different dance socials during the week in Richmond. These often change but you can always ask us about what's currently happening and we will share what we know! There are also several local FaceBook groups that you can join where promoters typically post about upcoming socials (RVA Salsa Connect, VCU Salsa & Tango, Richmond Salsa Community).
how long do i need to take class before i can go out dancing?
You can go out dancing as soon as you feel comfortable! The dance community is welcoming to beginner dancers and it's the best way to practice and improve! Please ask us to dance when you see us out - we all lead and follow!
