We can instruct on a variety of Latin Social Dances:

Salsa Cubana (Cuban Salsa), Rueda de Casino (Casino Rueda), Salsa On 1, Salsa On 2, Merengue, Bachata, Bachatango, Cuban Son, Samba Carnaval Style, Samba de Gafieira, Mambo (Cuban Mambo), Cha Cha Chá (Cuban Cha Cha Chá), Rumba (Cuban Rumba), Zouk, Kizomba, Cumbia, Colombian Salsa, Cubaton. We also have guest instructors who offer other classes and fitness such as Zumba.

Salsa Beginner Level 1 and 2 group classes are offered regularly. "Rueda de Casino" classes alternate levels throughout the year. One-on-one private sessions can be booked to learn and study any of the dances above, whether it's offered as a current group class or not.

No! You do not need a partner for any of our classes. Our group classes have a healthy mix of singles and couples so you won't feel alone during class. In addition, we ask that our students rotate and dance with different partners so that they meet new people and get to dance with other students in the class. The group class schedule welcomes singles and couples.

For private lessons, you will dance with your instructor or with your dance partner and focus on learning at your own pace. If you are looking for one-on-one time attention for questions, concerns, and practice, private lessons may be the best option.

Easy!!!

1 - Purchase dance class(es) on our Online Shop page or simply drop in at our studio.

2 - Complete your Waiver (first timers). It is recommended to arrive at least 10 minutes before the start time of your first class.

3- Start dancing.

For more info about classes or to set up a time to tour the studio and learn more please contact us at 859-278-8598 or email thesalsacenter@gmail.com.

Location: 817 Lane Allen Rd, Lexington KY 40504

The dance class dress code is "work casual" to "gym attire". Most students come to class dressed in jeans or workout clothes with shoes that allow their feet to move and pivot on the floor. Some of our students attend classes after work and are dressed in business attire. Feel free to dress comfortably with light clothing as Latin Dances tend to turn up the heat!

As for shoes, you do not need to purchase special dance shoes for your first set of lessons. We recommend non-rubber soles such as leather or plastic (rubber soles will stick to the hardwood floors and can be difficult to spin). For local "dance" shoe vendors, try Dance Biz. Online retailers like Amazon have good bargains!

We welcome dancers of all ages!

At The Salsa Center, we believe dance is for everyone, from energetic younger to vibrant seniors.

Please Note: To ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all, students under 18 are recommended to join our a Junior class (when/if available) or book private instruction tailored to their age and experience level. Let’s get everyone moving no matter the age!

The majority of our students find our class pace just right. However, everyone learns at a different pace. We organize Latin Parties that are a great way to practice your moves but we also recommend practicing at home after your class. Private lessons are another option to assist you in understanding and executing the movements covered in the class as well as improving your skills.

Group Lessons: If a weekly group dance class is missed due to work, vacation, inclement weather, illness or family emergency, it can be made up in a similar level or below, within 1 month of absence if available. Please contact us for recommended time and days that are available to request a makeup date.

Private Lessons: For private lesson cancellations please send us an email as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to arrange a substitute class. We abide by the 48 hour cancellation policy. The first substitute class will be free of charge (per every 6 months). All no shows and additional rescheduling sessions will incur a $25 rescheduling fee as per the 48 hour cancellation policy. Note: Private lesson packages have specific expiration dates.

To provide the best learning environment for our students, we may require a minimum pre-registered number of students for our group classes and workshops. If the minimum is not met by the enrollment deadline, the start may be delayed, rescheduled, or canceled. Pre-paid students will be notified of the change via email. Reimbursements will be made if the pre-paid student cannot commit to the new rescheduled date AND has notified us in writing within 1 week before the tentative start rescheduled date. However, once the class has started please adhere to the CANCELLATION POLICY below.

Note: Minimum enrollment is more strict for weekend workshops. Weeknight classes may continue with low enrollment unless it is a Rueda class.

1. All major credit cards (Visa / MasterCard / American Express / Discover, etc) via Square.

2. Checks

3. Cash

All requests for refunds or credits must be received in writing through email at thesalsacenter@gmail.com.

Full refund minus a $10 administrative fee for cancellations at least one week prior to the start date of the group class. Cancellations between 6 days before the class start date and the day after your first class receive a 50% credit towards the next package. No credits or refunds two days after the the first day of group class. Private lessons must adhere to a 48 hour cancellation policy and $25 reschedule fee if canceled after the 48 hour window.

The Salsa Center and anyone choosing to take dance instruction at The Salsa Center adheres to an "Unplugged" Policy (Includes all tech devices used to make a call, text or check emails such as cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, etc. )

Students should turn off ringers, notifications, and any other distractions or change ringers to "mute" or "vibrate" during training, classes, and rehearsals at The Salsa Center Dance Studio. Students will be offered 5-minute Tech Breaks for every 55 minutes of group class instruction. Students are asked to Unplug during the instructional sessions and will be encouraged to wait to use their tech devices until after class or during Tech breaks. Most classes will be 50-55 minutes and will not need a tech break.

If a Student must take an Emergency or Important Call / Text / Email, they will be asked to leave the main hall and talk either in the lobby or other rooms except the main hall to avoid distractions to the teacher and students. If continued use occurs, we may ask that you not attend our group sessions.

Private Lessons - Since there will not be formal tech breaks for private lessons, students may use their cell phones during their private lessons as needed, however, their private lessons will remain 50 minutes in duration from start to finish.

Please note: RECORDING AUDIO/VIDEO DURING CLASS IS NOT ALLOWED

Due to occasional inclement weather, The Salsa Center Dance Studio may cancel and reschedule classes for the safety of the students. Please stay tuned on the website or follow up on Facebook, Instagram, etc to watch for cancellations. Make-up classes will be added for all canceled classes.

Yes, Gift Certificates can be purchased for any amount or any package offered. Let us know your requirements and, once you have paid in full, you will receive a confirmation by email with a class detail that will be helpful for your giftee. Gift certificates can be picked up or mailed to a desired address. Also, you can purchase eGift Cards in our shop for your convenience.

The Gift of Dance

Of course! We love special events and can cater a workshop specifically for your event. Please contact us at 859-278-8598 or email thesalsacenter@gmail.com for further details.

Absolutely! Our facility will offer a convenient location with a wide open space perfect for SMALL FORMAT Birthday parties, Business functions, and even Wedding receptions. DJ services like in Latin Entertainment and custom party packages are a few of the perks we have to offer our clients.

Please contact us for more details and pricing at 859-278-8598 or email thesalsacenter@gmail.com.

Our goal is to increase the dance opportunities for students through practices, socials, parties, and outings. There are group classes offered weekly and monthly Latin Parties. We also organize off-site events with other local restaurants and venues to provide the perfect outing for our students.

Check our calendar or feel free to email us for more info on future events at thesalsacenter@gmail.com.

Absolutely! The Salsa Center Dance Studio offers customized workshop packages for Elementary students, High schools, and Universities. Workshop fees range from $125 - $700. We offer 1 hour to full-day school workshops which can include multiple workshops for each grade, Salsa and Latin Cultural performances, and/or interactive music-dance Workshops.

We pride ourselves in sharing Salsa and other Latin Dance Workshops and Events throughout Kentucky Schools. A few of the schools and academic organizations/departments that we have had the honor of working with since our opening in 2011:

Asbury College

Centre College

Cassidy Elementary

Danville High School

Eastern Kentucky University

Garden Springs Elementary

Glendover Elementary

Midway College

The Lexington School

Transylvania University

Sayre High School

Southern Elementary School

University of Kentucky, College of Pharmacy

University of Kentucky, Dance Ensemble

University of Kentucky, Department of Theatre

University of Kentucky, International Student Council

University of Kentucky, Residence Hall Workshops

University of Kentucky, Student Activities Board

University of Kentucky, Salsa Society recently formed in 2015!

Yates Elementary School

Please contact us at 859-278-8598 or email thesalsacenter@gmail.com for further details.

1. Improves cardiovascular health.

2. Improves balance and strength.

3. A weekly dance program could improve physical performance and increase energy levels among adults.

4. Dance training is just as helpful for losing weight as well as increasing aerobic power.

If you have concerns about the intensity of a class, please talk to your doctor or specialist and the instructor before starting the class.

If you’re feeling tense or stressed out, you might want to grab a partner, turn up the music, and dance! Dancing really does lift your spirits. It helps your mental and emotional health by reducing stress, decreasing the symptoms of anxiety and depression, and boost your self-esteem.

If you have concerns about the intensity of a class, please talk to your doctor or specialist and the instructor before starting the class.

Dance challenges your brain. It requires you to focus on both the constant changing of movement and recalling moves and patterns. Dance has the additional benefits of improving balance through rhythm and music.

If you have concerns about the intensity of a class, please talk to your doctor or specialist and the instructor before starting the class.

Being around other people while dancing is good for your social and emotional health. A dance class is the perfect setting to make new friends and branch out socially. Maintaining positive relationships may just rank up there with healthy eating and exercise. Being socially engaged leads to increased happiness, reduced stress, and a stronger immune system.

If you have concerns about the intensity of a class, please talk to your doctor or specialist and the instructor before starting the class.

If you have never danced Salsa or Bachata before, start with our 4 or 6 6-week beginner sessions. If you have taken lessons before, then use the third tip on how to determine your level.

We are glad that you have danced before Latin. If you have never taken structured dance lessons, we strongly suggest starting with our 4 or 6 Week Beginner Sessions.

Tip: It's always good to drill the basics before you jump levels! Even if you have some experience, it's always best to get a solid foundation first!

If the info that you found on our website is not helping you decide where to start, schedule a free consultation with one of our expert instructors and they will help guide you in the right direction.

GET A FREE CONSULTATION!

Please contact us at 859-278-8598 or email thesalsacenter@gmail.com for further details.

How much do you want to commit? You are always welcome to Drop-in in a class and not commit to a session. If you just want to do our sessions then a 4 or 6-week session class is a good option.

Step up into our private lessons packages if want to learn faster and become a good dancer!

PRIVATE LESSON PACKAGES

Each level is broken down into 4 or 6-week sessions that cover the most fundamental moves that need to be studied in that level. Be sure to go through each level for the best results! Before you move up, be sure to ask your instructors if you are ready.

Tip: Practice makes perfect! Go out social dancing and come to our salsa events. MASTER YOUR BASICS!

For best results, we recommend that after you complete the Beginner Salsa Sessions and move on to the next level. You can combine your regular sessions with seasonal Workshops for more patterns, moves, styling & drills.

An exotic dance from a Caribbean country named the Dominican Republic and has made its way to the Latin Clubs throughout the world. With movements rooted from the Cuban Bolero and Son, the Bachata dance has evolved into different dance styles but has universally recognized characteristics such as keeping a close connection with your dance partner as well as rhythmical hip motions. The Bachata music includes a combination of various guitars and percussion and is danced a very passionate dance. Lyrics generally tell stories of “UNLOVE”, abandonment, resentment and bitterness. More recent dance styles include syncopated footwork and tangling arm patterns.

A fusion of the Dominican Bachata with Argentine Tango moves. Ganchos and Ochos Galore and extra torso movement make this modern version of Bachata a favorite.

This is a group dance consisting of Cuban Style Salsa moves that are executed by responding to calls and changing partners, with the aim of synchronizing the moves so that all dancers move as one. Building from simple to ever more complex Salsa moves and sequences, Rueda is a great way to build knowledge and a full understanding of Cuban Salsa.

Another Cuban dance popularized across Europe and America in the 1950s. The band Orquesta America is acknowledged as the creator of this enduring dance form. Their violinist Enrique Jorrín apparently composed the first Cha Cha Chá “La Engañadora” after he watched Americans struggle with the complex Cuban dance rhythms. With syncopated steps and flirty patterns, this dance remains one of the favorites.

Cumbia comes from the Caribbean coast of Colombia with music played with accordions, brass instruments, guitars and deep sounding drums. The dance is danced with side to side steps of two partners mirroring each other's steps. This style became very popular during the big band era and continues to be very popular in Colombian nightclubs today as well as those in Mexico and other parts of Latin America. The style taught at TSC includes influences from the Colombian style and the more recent genre of Cumbia Sonidera from Mexico.

Arsenio Rodriguez was the first to introduce the Mambo music by integrating Danzón into elements from Son Montuno. Yet, Perez Prado was the one who made the Mambo dance popular and is recognized as the “King of Mambo.” The complicated rhythms of mambo have an upbeat and quick tempo full of piano, trumpets, and congas. The original mambo dance is different than the more commonly known ballroom mambo which imitates the patterns of salsa with different timing. The authentic steps of Mambo are generally easy to learn for a beginner and have lively movements

The Colombian style of Salsa emphasizes fancy footwork with a still upper body. Along with the Cuban and L.A. Style, the Colombian style is an "On One Style." Salsa Colombian style has four beats where a flourish of the feet or other styled body movement. This style of salsa takes dedication and mastery of many Latin rhythms including the Cuban Mambo and Cuban Cha Cha Chá.

Just like Bachata, the Merengue visits us from the Dominican Republic and is considered the national dance of the Dominican. Its melodic characteristics are accompanied by the tambora, the güiro and the accordion. The rhythm is very easy to follow simply by counting 1-2, 1-2, etc. The character of the dance mimics a limping motion with the legs while the upper body does all the tangling patterns.

Salsa danced "on 1" with patterns created for couple's to dance in a line or mostly between 2 points of a slot. Influences from Puerto Rican style of salsa and also Cuban Mambo.

Style of Salsa with dance movements originating from the Cuban Son dance of the 1920's. Influences from the dances Danzon, Mambo, Guaguancó and other Cuban folkloric dancing. Also called "Casino".

Salsa danced in clean lines with a New York Styling a.k.a. Modern Mambo. The basic step begins with two back steps for the leader and two forward steps for the follower. Salsa On 2 Shines (solo footwork) have many similar elements of jazz dance.

A partner dance to the Brazilian Samba musical rhythms. Samba de Gafieira being different from the Ballroom Samba, and commonly fusing solo variations, including steps of Samba No Pé. The word "Gafieira" can also refer to the traditional samba music orchestra, as well as the dance hall where it is performed. The term gafieira was Brazilian Portuguese slang meaning "low dancing resort, gaff, honky-tonk." The style originated from samba dancing in cabarets and gafieiras (hence the name, literally meaning "Samba of gafieira"), primarily in districts of Botafogo, Catete and Centro of Rio de Janeiro. The term gained recognition in the 1940s. Over time the style significantly evolved away from the style 1940s under significant influence of Argentine Tango and incorporating many acrobatic elements.

Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating in Angola.

It is a mix of traditional Angolan Semba with kilapanda and merengue sung generally in Portuguese, wrongly confused with Zouk, because the pace is very similar. In Europe, the word "kizomba" is used for any type of music derived from Zouk, even if not of Angolan origin.

Samba No Pé a.k.a. Carnival Style Samba. This style of samba is learned in solo steps and is seen in the streets of Brazil during festival times.