What we teach & dance
At Dance Culture, we specialise in Salsa and Bachata, two vibrant Latin dance styles enjoyed socially around the world.
Both are partner dances, but they have their own music, character and way of moving. Salsa is energetic, playful and dynamic. Bachata is smooth, expressive and connected. You do not need a partner or any previous dance experience to begin learning either style.
Salsa
Salsa is a lively and energetic dance with roots in Cuba, Puerto Rico and New York. It is danced to music rich in percussion, brass and infectious Latin rhythms.
The dance combines turns, footwork, partner patterns, musical expression and plenty of personality. It can be playful and relaxed or fast and exciting, depending on the music and the dancers.
At Dance Culture, you will learn how to:
- Understand Salsa timing and rhythm
- Lead or follow comfortably with a partner
- Perform turns and partner combinations
- Develop confident footwork and body movement
- Recognise and respond to changes in the music
- Dance socially with a wide variety of people
We teach both Salsa On1 and Salsa On2. Most beginners start with Salsa On1, which provides an accessible foundation before progressing into more advanced concepts and styles.
Bachata
Bachata originated in the Dominican Republic and has grown into one of the world’s most popular social dances.
Compared with Salsa, Bachata is generally danced to slower music and uses a simple side-to-side basic step. The dance can be fun and rhythmic, soft and romantic, or expressive and dramatic.
As you progress, you will learn elements drawn from different approaches to Bachata, including traditional Dominican foundations, modern partnerwork, musical interpretation and body movement.
At Dance Culture, you will learn how to:
- Recognise Bachata rhythm and timing
- Lead or follow with clarity and comfort
- Use turns, direction changes and partnerwork
- Develop natural body movement
- Adapt your dancing to different styles of Bachata music
- Create an enjoyable connection with your partner
What is social dancing?
Salsa and Bachata are social dances. This means they are designed to be danced with different people, without a rehearsed routine.
One person leads and the other follows, using movement and connection to communicate. Both roles are equally important. You can choose whichever role you would like to learn.
During our classes, students regularly rotate partners. This helps you develop genuine leading and following skills while meeting the other people in your class. You are welcome to attend with a partner, but you do not need to bring one.
More than learning steps
Learning Salsa and Bachata is about much more than memorising combinations.
You will develop coordination, musicality, confidence and the ability to communicate through movement. You will also become part of a welcoming community of people who come together to learn, laugh, socialise and dance.
There is always something new to explore, whether you are attending your first class or have been dancing for years.
Which style should I learn?
You do not need to choose.
Our introductory course teaches the foundations of both Salsa and Bachata, giving you the opportunity to experience each style before deciding what you would like to pursue. Many of our students continue learning and dancing both.
Some people immediately fall in love with the energy of Salsa. Others are drawn to the music and connection of Bachata. Most discover that each style offers something different and enjoyable.
Start with no experience
Most Dance Culture students begin as complete beginners. You do not need rhythm, confidence, a partner or any previous dance training.
Our introductory course is designed to help you feel comfortable from your very first class. We will teach you everything you need to know, one step at a time.
Come and discover why Salsa and Bachata are danced and loved all over the world.
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