Learning to Salsa Dance in Seattle
Lykes to Dance, Seattle WA Call (206)729-2669
With the Lykes to Dance dance professionals, you’ll start by learning basic salsa movements, such as timing and body motion. Before you know it, you’ll be able to move around like a pro. The staff takes pride in providing a comfortable, fun environment, where even the shy and self conscious feel okay about coming out of their shells. You can learn to dance either through group work shops, or intensive private lessons- a mix of both is recommended to get the best possible experience. Individual training might be best at first, while you re trying to figure out which way to love your limbs, and not look stiff. But the group classes are rumored to be a real blast, and might be a good way to find a dancing partner on your level.
Las Margaritas- 1122 Post Ave, Seattle, WA, 98101- At least one day out of the week, this bar offers free salsa dancing lessons starting after 8 pm, with a $5 cover charge. Here, you will learn from real dancers, who have usually participated in contests and dance offs around the world. You might be the worst one there, but nobody is going to care. It’s a very supportive, enthusiastic crowd, and somebody who is really good is bound to sweep you up and try and make you do moves that your body might not even be capable of doing- it’ll be a good gauge of how far you have to go, and why you want to learn. Try to get there on the night that Gustavo is teaching- he really gets people moving. Or on Friday night, which is officially “Havana night.” The option of a cocktail might make you feel a little more bold about letting loose.
Open Flight Dance Studio- 4205 University Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98105
Every Sunday from 4:15-5:30, this small U-District dance studio offers a $10 45-minute class on basic salsa technique. They pride themselves on using an authentic approach to basic training, so expect meticulous teachers, even though the class is introductory and inexpensive. This could be the best choice for your money. You will also be able to learn basic Merengue, Cumbia, Bachata, and foot and bodywork.
Northwest Salsa Dance Dreams Studio call (206)354-5319; different possible locations in the Seattle/Tacoma area.
This is a good choice if you and a group of friends would like to learn to salsa together. The certified dance professionals working with this organization offer a ten week intensive schedule, where you’ll move from basic salsa all the way to club salsa. You have to option of either deepening your comfort with salsa, or picking up basic foxtrot, Waltz, and Rumba, as well. Private lessons can also be arranged. Prices depend on the size of the group, or whether you are taking an individual lesson. Call for more information.
Salsa Caliente with Howard and Marisa; 6532 Phinney Ave. N (inside the Phinney Center,) Seattle, WA, 98103 Call (206)633-5166
This quintessential dance experience will offer you training in all levels of salsa, from very novice, tp extremely advanced. Classes are offered in four week series, if you are planning on attending group sessions (early registration is recommended.) Individual lessons are also possible, for your scheduling needs, and to learn at your own pace. You can also take private lessons as a couple, or with a small group. After you become an expert at salsa, try learning ChaCha and the Merengue, which the instructors at this studio are also known for.
