Do I need to bring a partner?

Latin dance is a very social hobby and coming with a partner is not necessary. Many students come for the class alone, or with a group of friends. We change partners regularly during classes, to give our students the opportunity to get used to dancing with different partners and meet each other. If you come as a couple that’s completely fine as well, but we would encourage you to join in with changing partners as you will find it very helpful when you begin social dancing.

I am coming to class with a partner, can I dance with them only?

Yes, it is totally fine to dance with the same partner during the class, but we would highly recommend that you change partners.  If you don’t want to change partners, please let your teacher know.

While the social aspect of Latin partner dancing is fundamental, rotating partners is not there solely for social reasons; it is critical to the learning process. Although everyone has a different style, the “lead” signals that are used in partner dancing are generally standardised. Therefore, if your lead signals are clear (as a leader), or if you’re able to interpret these signals accurately (as a follower), then you should be able to dance with anyone. Dancing with different partners will give you a true test of whether your leading/following technique is working.

I’m a female and I want to lead, or I’m a male and I want to follow—is that okay?

Absolutely! Everyone is welcome to choose the dance role that suits them best, regardless of gender. However, we recommend that you focus on mastering one role first—either leading or following—before learning the other. This helps build a solid foundation and speeds up your progress. Trying to learn both roles at the same time can slow your overall development.

What should I wear?

Whatever you feel comfortable in. It’s important to wear something you feel comfortable in. Jeans are fine,  but it’s also fine to dress it up a little more too. Bear in mind you are going to get warm! There is no requirement for proper dance shoes, or ladies to wear heels. Choose comfortable shoes that are neither too grippy or too slippery on a wooden floor.

How Much Are Classes/What Class can I Join?

Please see our Classes page for details.

How can I speed up the learning process?

Dance a lot!! This is the best way to speed up your learning.  Find some music you like and practice basic step sequences at home and have fun with it!

Casa Cubana offers:

• Thursday night classes and free social dancing.
• Block Classes (e.g. 6 weeks course) a couple of times each year.
• Salsa at Salamanca on Saturday afternoons casual and free salsa and Rueda.
• Private Classes (ask teachers to see who might be available).
• Music events: Son del Sur, a local salsa band. When they are playing don’t miss the chance to dance to a live band – that’s why we dance, it doesn’t get any better!

Do I have to book?

You don’t have to. You can just pop into the class and join each week.

What is the average age group of your students?

Our students are adults and there is no age barrier. The age range tends to be anywhere from 18 to 60+.

What about social dancing? Is that free?

We have free social dancing every Thursday night between 9pm and 11pm, when you can come and practice what you’ve learned during the classes. 

Where can I get music to practice?

We are happy to recommend you websites and retail outlets where to purchase Salsa and Latin music of all genres.  You can look other local people up on Spotify or Deezer to see their play lists.

Do you offer private classes?

Yes we do, please email us what type of private class(es) you would like to have and we’ll be happy to arrange it for you.

I have done dancing before, what class should I start with?

If you are unsure about what level is right for you, get in touch with us and let us know how much experience you have and we will do our best to allocate you in the right class. If you attend class and it is not the right level for you, you are always welcome to swap.

How long will it take for me to become a good dancer?

This can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, such as your natural abilities, the amount of time and the effort you are willing to dedicate to practice. In general, it can take several months to a year or more of consistent practice to develop a solid foundation of skills and become proficient in a particular style of dance. Many of our students have achieved optimal results through a combination of attending at least 1 group classes a week, then practicing their moves out socially at our parties and events on a regular basis and booking in private lessons throughout the year.

We also offer regular opportunities to learn from interstate and international guest instructors throughout the year at special workshops and bootcamps.

The most important thing is to have a passion for dance and to enjoy the journey of learning and improving. Consistent practice and a willingness to learn and take constructive criticism can go a long way in improving your dance skills and becoming the dancer you want to be.