Salsa, Bachata & Merengue Class – Beginner 2: Practice & Turns

About the class

This class series is your next step in your social dance journey! Hosted at La Peña Cultural Center, a beloved hub for arts, resistance, and collective joy for over 50 years, this 4-week class series is designed for dancers who want to deepen their social dance practice in a friendly space rooted in care, consent, and cultural connection.

Unlike traditional classes, we use “leaders” and “followers” instead of gendered roles, making space for everyone to feel seen and empowered on the dance floor.

Is this class for you?

This Beginner Level 2 series is a bridge between beginner and intermediate, ideal if you’ve taken a handful of classes, completed a beginner series, or have danced socially and want to keep growing without feeling rushed.

This class is ideal for dancers who:

• Understand and can consistently execute fundamentals (basic steps, rhythm, and timing).
• Can recognize and move with the different rhythms of Salsa, Bachata, and Merengue.
• Want a structured, guided practice space focused on partner work, turns, timing, and confidence building.

During this 4-class series, you will:

• Grow more confident leading, following, and connecting with partners.
• Deepen your sense of rhythm, timing, and familiarity with Salsa, Bachata, and Merengue.
• Strengthen your muscle memory through guided repetition and partner work.
• Explore new turn patterns and combinations for social dance settings.
• Build a strong foundation for intermediate-level classes.

Class details and registration:

• Salsa, Bachata & Merengue Class – Beginner Level 2: Practice & Turns
• Dates: Saturdays, September 5, 12, 19, 26
• Time: 12:15pm-1:15pm
• Location: La Peña Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA (near Ashby BART)
• Enrollment Cost: $94 for the 4-class series (+ Eventbrite fees). No drop-ins or single-class tickets available.
• Bonus: Registration includes one free entry to ¡BAILA!, La Peña’s monthly dance party featuring live Salsa bands and DJ’s. The perfect place to practice what you’ve learned in a welcoming and community-centered environment.
• All are welcome. No partner required.