Bachata is a lively genre of music and dance that originated in the Dominican Republic. The dance is known for its smooth, swaying hip movements, which are created by shifting weight from one foot to the other. This fluid motion forms the foundation of its partner style. 

Musically, bachata is defined by its prominent guitar melodies and heartfelt lyrics, often exploring themes of love, longing, and heartbreak. Guitarists frequently mimic percussion rhythms, playing with rapid tempos to match the energy of the dance. 

Bachata is not a ballroom dance, it has a more relaxed and spontaneous feel, with less rigid rules. As the dance has evolved globally, it has incorporated influences from other styles, such as sensual body rolls from zouk and dynamic turns from salsa, giving it a modern twist while retaining some traditional roots.

Salsa is a rich and vibrant genre of music and dance that originated in the Caribbean, particularly in Cuba and Puerto Rico. 

The partnered dance features a fundamental step pattern, where dancers shift their weight between their feet in a “forward-backward” motion. The lead directs the follower through a variety of moves, with a strong emphasis on connection, precise timing, and rhythm, especially during turns. 

Salsa gained widespread popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in New York City, where Puerto Rican and Cuban immigrants infused their musical traditions and Afro-Cuban rhythms into the urban music scene. In the U.S., Salsa evolved into a unique blend, incorporating influences from jazz and funk, which shaped its distinctive sound and style.

Belly dance is a traditional art form that originated in the Middle East, with influences from various cultures across North Africa, the Mediterranean, and beyond. It is distinguished by intricate, fluid movements of the torso, hips, and arms, with a special focus on isolating motions of the abdomen and hips.

Traditionally performed at weddings, celebrations, and social gatherings in the Middle East, it is often accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums, such as the darbuka, adding to the lively energy of the dance.

Today, belly dance has evolved beyond its cultural roots, becoming both a powerful form of artistic expression and a popular fitness practice. Many people now embrace it for its physical benefits, including core strength, flexibility, and improved posture.

Belly dance remains a dynamic and expressive art form, connecting dancers to their cultural heritage while offering an outlet for personal expression and captivating audiences around the world.

Pop Up Classes are occasional dance sessions that break away from the structure of regular weekly courses. Scheduled as opportunities arise, these classes currently focus on belly dance, with plans to introduce a variety of styles in the near future. They offer students a fun and convenient way to enjoy dance without the commitment of a recurring schedule.