Salsa & Sensual Bachata Dance Classes in Los Angeles

Being a dance student at Dancer University has been such a joy! I’ve had the opportunity to explore Salsa, Bachata, and Tango at my own pace, choosing from various 12-weeks series (programs) that fit perfectly with my work schedule. This has given me the time to enjoy evening classes with their friendly team of dance instructors, who are always bringing new, exciting dance demos and instruction to encourage the social side of dance events within the Dancer University community. I’ve also had the pleasure of watching the Westwood location expand its classes with a wide range of dance styles, some of which I’m still eager to try, like Kizomba and Brazilian Zouk Dance, which I’m really looking forward to in a Drop-In Class. Plus, it’s nice to walk into the studio and be greeted by their upbeat, friendly staff, knowing that classes start right on time and each dance room is always ready for my happy feet to step into clean floors, bright mirrors, and that are used to encourage our dance movements. By the way, their lobby is always open for a seat and a chat with friends when I arrive 10 minutes early. Overall, I can truly say that my dance skills have improved significantly, and I feel confident sharing that since the proof is in the dancing! 🙂 If you’re interested in checking out the studio, I recommend signing up for their free Saturday introductory classes and meeting Nicole Gil, the owner and dance instructor. You might even get a chance to meet their in-house DJ, A-line (Dr.Alayn G).

They put on the best salsa/bachata events in the LA, and yes sometimes even the OC, area. Always amazing, often breathtaking, venues with plenty of friendly, happy skillful dancers. If you're ever like me with some remaining weekend enthusiasm left to burn, Monday nights at the Continental Club in downtown LA are always a good bet, even when driving from Orange County. The neighborhood appears safe and clean, and the venue is somewhat "underground" (literally), accessed from a wide well-lit alley. The entry is a short maze with all black painted walls and ceiling, then down a black stairwell and through black curtains into a dimly red-lit posh environment, with chic dancers moving to captivating, sensual bachata rhythms on a swanky dance floor.

Dancer University is a great place to learn how to dance and they host many fun social events each week if you want extra practice.

I’m taking a beginner’s salsa bootcamp here. Awesome curriculum and really great instructors (Herman and Jules). Above all I really like that dancer university have been quite successfully at creating a strong community of dancers on the west side. I’m loving it!

Great community vibe, Nicole is awesome and her positive sprit is contagious through all of the staff and teachers, you would feel so welcome, and not very strict with process of finding what you like, very helpful and supportive to make sure you are at the spot that suits you most , always fun events arranged and everything is just about dance!

Awesome studio, top quality instructors, and great class variety. Dancer University has been my absolute favorite spot in LA

Have started taking the intermediate bachata class on Tuesdays. Love it. Learning so much. And you get some personalized coaching at the end of the lesson with tips on how to improve. And the teachers are amazing.

I'm not usually one to write reviews usually but this is such a great place to learn Bachata! Joe and Michelle helped level me up to intermediate bachata by breaking down the moves really clearly and encouraging me to become part of the community and go to socials. David and Sami helped me to keep pushing myself, and now I’m starting in Nicole and Scott’s class, and they are seriously so cool! They give such great individual feedback and develop cool combos you can take to the socials while also making sure they are teaching you the fundamentals. I’ve learned so much here and really progressed but also always feel supported. This place is so great on so many levels. So grateful for Dancer University!

I just had my first private lesson with Nicole Gil and it was the best experience Ive had learning Bachata. Her attention to detail is fenomenal and in very little time she can level you up fast Highly recommend!

Took the zero to hero salsa course with Johnny and Nikki! Amazing instructors, supportive environment, and challenging but fun! Learned a lot and feel ready for social dancing and to continue my salsa journey!

Just finished the 12-week Beginner Salsa Course and it was an amazing experience! Yahmani and Sami are fantastic instructors — patient, encouraging, and so passionate about what they do. The atmosphere is fun, welcoming, and totally judgment-free. I went from knowing nothing to feeling confident on the dance floor. Highly recommend Dancer University to anyone thinking about it!

I've been attending socials, drop-in classes, and progressive courses at Dancer University for about 9 months now, and I can't say enough wonderful things about my experience. The community here is inclusive and welcoming – whether you're a true dance beginner like me or a veteran salsera / bachatera. Everyone is here to help each other grow, have fun, and become better dancers. After just a few short months, I've improved so much and made so many new friends – it feels more like a community than just a hobby. I've attended both salsa and bachata classes, and all my instructors have been knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging. As someone who's shopped around at different dance studios and socials, I feel that Dancer University instructors are a tier above – they focus on technique over just combos, are good teachers as well as dancers, and are always improving themselves by attending workshops / seminars / festivals of their own. There's also a strong emphasis on taking care of each other on the dance floor and using proper technique to keep each other safe (esp Herman, a salsa instructor, and Joe, a bachata instructor) – something that not all dance studios prioritize. I personally would highly recommend taking a progressive course, as the 1:1 feedback has accelerated my progress as a student. In short, I can't recommend Dancer University highly enough, and am excited to continue attending their classes and socials.

I love coming here! Everyone is so friendly and welcoming I took 1 beginner class randomly and have been obsessed ever since.

Great studio with awesome instructors. I-thought I would have a favorite, but I’ve had multiple instructors there and all of them are great and have something different to offer. Their socials have been my favorite so far. The 12 week course is a great way to gain more confidence, get familiar with the basics and more! The instructors genuinely want everyone to really learn and have fun doing it. The warm welcoming vibe and connections has been very therapeutic.

Such a special place and community!! Not an exaggeration to say that taking classes here has been one of the best decisions of my young adult life. Nicole has built a place where it’s possible to grow exponentially as a dancer and to make heartfelt friendships all at the same time, from the moment you step in the door. I’ve taken salsa and bachata from Nicole, Jonny, Yahmani, Sami, and Joe, and all have been phenomenal; class is always a highlight of the week. Do yourself a favor, take the word of a stranger on the internet, and sign up - guaranteed zero regrets 🤸‍♀️

You have found the right place! Awesome instructors, energy and community. So grateful for Dancer University!

If you’re wanting to learn salsa or bachata, Dancer University is a great place to start. I’ve been taking bachata classes there and Joe and Nicole are the best—super patient, fun, and they make everything feel easy to learn. The vibe is welcoming and you actually enjoy the process while improving. Definitely recommend checking it out!

I've been attending socials, drop-in classes, and progressive courses at Dancer University for about 8 months now, and I can't say enough wonderful things about my experience. The community here is inclusive and welcoming – whether you're a true dance beginner like me or a veteran salsera / bachatera. Everyone is here to help each other grow, have fun, and become better dancers – from the instructors and staff members to fellow students. After just a few short months here, I've made so many new friends (and brought in so many of my existing friends!) – it feels more like a community than just a hobby. I've also learned that one of life's greatest joys is running into your friend on the dance floor and sharing a dance 🙂 I've attended both salsa and bachata classes, and all my instructors have been knowledgeable, endlessly patient, and consistently encouraging. As someone who's shopped around at different dance studios and socials, I feel that Dancer University instructors are a tier above – they focus on technique over just combos, are good teachers as well as dancers, and are always improving themselves by attending workshops / seminars / festivals of their own. There's also a strong emphasis on taking care of each other on the dance floor and using proper technique to keep each other safe (esp Herman, a salsa instructor) – something that not all dance studios prioritize. I personally would highly recommend taking a progressive course, as you will get 1:1 feedback on your technique, which I've found has accelerated my progress as a student. In short, I can't recommend Dancer University highly enough. So many of us have fallen in love with salsa / bachata because of Dancer University and never looked back. Just be prepared to have dance become your entire personality once you join 🙂

This class and environment was the best! Jasmine is a great instructor that allowed us to get comfortable with the basics and progressively elevate our skills. I can’t wait to keep putting to use what I’ve been able to learn from this class out in socials. Thank you Jasmine, Nicole, and Dancer University!

Great experience and awesome atmosphere. Highly recommend

Cannot say enough good things about the Zero to Hero Salsa class taught by Herman and Jules. They not only provide breakdown of technical steps and musicality/styling instruction, but they also provide cultural context and social dancing etiquette insights, which are invaluable as a beginner social dancer. Dancer university as a whole is a wonderful community full of genuine, welcoming people! Can’t wait to continue my dance journey.

Disculpen enseñan cumbia?

Dancer University is by far the best studio to learn salsa and bachata in Los Angeles and possibly in all of the west coast. Classes are clearly taught and the instructors are up to date on the latest trendy moves and techniques. Nicole is one of the most ethical and kind studio owners in LA. She is always gracious and helpful when we host our events at Dancer University and her space is also my favorite spot to take my private lessons in LA as well. Dancer University always brings the top artists for weekenders including Gero and Migle, Klau and Ros, and Franklin Diaz to name a few. I highly recommend Dancer University to anyone who is serious about leveling up their dance technique and wants to also attend the best salsa and bachata parties in LA!

Awesome dance floors with very good management. Had to rent a space to practice and it was smooth.

Hi everyone! I wanted to tell you that I'm having a wonderful experience learning Salsa and Bachata at Dancer University. It's a lovely, welcoming place where I enjoy dancing and learning with the best teachers. I've also met and spent time with some really nice people. My teachers are the best! On Mondays, I have Nicole and Scott. On Tuesdays, I have William and Eden, Jonny and Sami, and Yahmani and Nikki. On Wednesdays, I have Monica and David, and on Thursdays, I have Jasmine. Each of them has their own unique sensuality, glamour, and elegance. They're a joy to have. So, I invite you all to come learn, share, enjoy yourselves, meet new people, and make lots of friends. Bye!

I love this dancing class.The atmosphere is fun and welcoming, and the instructors make learning dance feel effortless and exciting. A great community of people who love dancing. Love the energy!

Super fun, friendly environment, thanks Nicole!

Great beginner classes!!!!! Love it!

I looked up events to do near me and there was a free dance night for an intro to bachata and salsa. Me and my friend decided to go late and we ended up have having so much fun!

Amazing introduction dance lessons!

Absolutely love Dancer University! Great vibe and great people. Nicole, Sami and Jonny are amazing. Can’t wait to come back every time! 💃

This is the best dance studio. I do not mind making the drive. Always a great atmosphere ❤️

I love the tango class. Jesus is a great instructor and 2 hours for the class really gives me the time to get into the class and practice a lot. I love it and will keep going back!

Nicole and team are amazing! I took their intro to salsa class which was fantastic. Loved it so much that I’m now doing the bachata class!

Went to one of there free classes and the teacher gave a great lesson!

What a place and people, totally recommended

This is truly a fabulous dance studio. The studio is gorgeous, embracing, open, friendly. The whole team, from the teachers to everyone else running the studio, is truly kind, warm, caring, exceptional dancers and teachers. It feels like a home. The studio is also very active around LA, putting together many events, often free. They really provide a tremendous service to the city. This is a special studio. Special people. Can't recommend it enough.

Dancer university is a great place to learn salsa and bachata, they make you feel welcome and are always hosting great events all around town. Stick with them and you'll always have somewhere to go on an evening Nicole is the nicest person you'll ever meet! I really recommend their free class on Saturday and there is free parking!

WOOOOOO

"I'm writing to share my experience at Dancer University. The classes are exceptional - each one is thoughtfully planned and well-structured. The dance instructors are both highly professional and genuinely friendly, creating an environment that's both challenging and supportive. In my opinion, this is the best dance program in the city."

I consistently have great experiences taking lessons and workshops at Dancer U. The instructors and staff are friendly, welcoming, and highly knowledgeable. Nicole, the owner, is incredibly attentive and genuinely cares about each student’s experience. I always look forward to taking more classes at Dancer U.

Dancer University is great and second to none. If you are new to salsa, they offer a great classes in a fun and encouraging environment . Not only will you learn how to dance, you can make some new friends . They also have intermediate and advance classes In additon to classes, they host fun dance socials. Like the classes, its a fun environment. Intermediate and advance dance can hone in on their skills and beginners can learn and practice. I highly reccommend Dancers University

I've been taking salsa and bachata classes with Nicole and she is wonderful. Very good at explaining each step and attention to her craft. Highly recommend taking a class with her if you have the opportunity!

I attended a workshop at Dancer University, and the openness and genuine willingness to learn and improve were palpable throughout the space. The environment is clearly designed to support growth and learning at every level. I want to congratulate Dancer University for cultivating such a safe and thoughtful space.

First time taking a beginner bachata class with Nicole Gil here at Dancer University. I absolutely loved it. She's super welcoming and patient with everyone. And she teaches in such a fun and engaged way. The community she's created here is phenomenal, and she has the top dancers to teach here. In not just bachata, but also in Salsa, Kizomba, and Tango. I don't know too much about the Tango world, but the teachers she has for Bachata, Salsa, and Kizomba, they're literally the best dancers in the SoCal area. And some of them dance and teach internationally as well. She also brings in incredible artists from other parts of the world, especially Spain for bachata since that part of the world is leading the scene. If you want to start, their beginner classes are amazing. And if you are intermediate, this is also a great place to grow into an advanced dancer.

Love everything about DU, from the amazing instructors, class structure/content, community and management. I highly recommend the sensual bachata progressive series. I’ve done them all (Monday with Joe & Maria or Joe & Michelle, Tuesday with Joe and Nicole, Thursday with David & Michelle) and each has something to offer. Nicole and Alayn have really built something special in LA- super grateful for this community! ♥️

GREAT GREAT PLACE VERY FRIENDLY AND FUN WOULD GO AGAIN !!!

Had so much fun! Nicole was a amazing instructor.

Saturday 5pm Salsa class was super fun! It was my first time here and Nicole was a great instructor and easy to follow and learn! Thank you

Writing reviews are not an easy thing, but I will try to be as transparent as possible. I have been dancing socially for 10 years in LA, but never truly committed to a dance school due to the fact that majority of the time you don’t feel as welcome or as safe to join a dance studio. Going to socials are incredibly different than actually joining a dance school — and that is where Dancer University shines. It is the best place to learn latin dancing. First, the first time I walked into DU and Nishima, the general manager, was there to greet me with the biggest and most genuine smile. That was the moment I knew I was in the right place. I have worked in sales for a long time and the importance of having someone like Nishima be the first face a customer sees when they walk in to a new place is crucial! First impressions are one of the main reasons customers stay with you or go somewhere else. Second, the instructors are all extremely professional and respectful. They teach moves and combinations you can actually use in social events unlike other dance schools in LA that teach things that don’t translate to the dance floor and are really hard to replicate in social events. Lastly, the owners Nicole and Alayn are truly great ambassadors of the LA dance community. They make everyone feel welcome. Most importantly, no other Latin dance school in LA will prioritize your safety, as a lead and a follow, like Dancer University will — for me, this is the ultimate success of DU.