What a great dance school and studio! I like how friendly the instructors are and how there are free beginners classes. I've taken some salsa and bachatta classes here a few times and really enjoyed it. They rotate dance partners but you can bring your own partner. Wish I knew about this place when going to college since it's very close to the UCLA campus. Instruction is clear and fun. I recommend this place and the studio has many dance rooms. It's spacious and clean. Nicole is a great teacher! It's a nice way to meet people too. read more

I have been participating in the Zero to Hero Bachata Sensual Class at Dancer University since January and I can't say enough nice things about it! With no prior dance experience, I found the environment supportive for individuals of all skill levels. I've completed three beginner series and felt my confidence and skills improve. I highly recommend taking the series more than once since the instructors try really hard to make each series different. There is so much to learn, so repetition is key! I also like that you get to dance with the instructors and get feedback, I don't believe other dance studios do this so this a huge plus. My instructors were David/Michelle and John/Sofia. AMAZING instructors, 10/10. Both partners are highly knowledgeable and explain technique in easy ways to understand. I enjoy the demo at the end of the class. Some great inspiration!! I look forward to my continued journey at Dancer! read more

I took a Bachata class zero to Hero on Sundays from 3 to 5 with John and Sofia I absolutely was nervous going, but they're so friendly and within the two hours you definitely learned to dance. Super fun. Say it's good for people that don't have experience as well as as people that do have experience or something for everyone on repeating the class I used to Dance Salsa about 20 years ago The class is catered to people that do have experience as well defined tune and learn some new moves. The repeat classes keep changing so it gives you a full library of different moves Become the master of your dance here at Dance University, big fan read more

I have taken the beginners salsa class two times now and I absolutely love it! Every week we learn a new shine and a new dance move, with the program being 12 weeks we learn a LOT! The value of this program is so worth it- not only do you meet to learn but you befriend your class mates and go out to Socials together that the school puts on! We are talking 2-3 socials a week AND a dance class. This is a progressive program so practicing is an absolute must. 10/10 recommend and I plan on taking the intermediate salsa class next :D thank you to Nicole and Julez for being amazing teachers! - this program is very beginner friendly. read more

If you've ever wanted to dance--whether it's Salsa, Sensual Bachata, or Tango--or if you're looking for a fun way to meet new people, enjoy a unique date night, or start an exciting new hobby, Dancer University is the perfect place. They offer a variety of options, including free intro classes, drop-in sessions, and multi-class series, so there's something for everyone. Whether you're taking classes with a partner or venturing solo like I did, Nicole Gil and the rest of the instructors create such a warm and welcoming environment that you'll feel like part of the family right away. When I first walked in, I didn't know a single person, but I left with new friends and an incredible community to go dancing with. If dancing has always been on your bucket list, don't hesitate--just show up like I did! And if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me. read more

An absolutely fabulous, truly exceptional dance studio. The studio is gorgeous, lots of wonderful rooms of all sizes, beautiful wood floors, large windows overlooking Westwood Blvd, wonderful, warm, embracing entrance lobby, exceptional, caring, on-point, gentle teachers. I went to Saturday's free salsa class. Nicole was so exceptional in teaching it. So warm, fun, kind, patient. This truly is a blessing of a studio. All the rest of the instructors were truly marvelous, beautiful, caring, warm people. An immense thank you to all! read more

Best dance studios, dance events, and dance community ever! I went from a beginner dancer to an avid social dancer so quickly and I'm so grateful :) read more

This is hands down the best studio to learn dance! I took the 8-week progressive intermediate Bachata series with Nicole and Joe, meeting once a week. Each session introduced a new combo and they would go over in depth technique , and they would dance with us and give us helpful feedback. I gained so much in those 8 weeks! The studio has an amazing, friendly community, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking to learn dance. read more

Looking to engage in a new hobby, I signed up for the Zero to Hero class this past April. No doubt, initially, I approached the program with some trepidation--and armed a litany of excuses: too old, classes are too late, too slow on the uptake, blah, blah, blah. Yet, despite my initial hesitation, it has been nothing short of a pleasant learning experience. Our instructors, Nicole and Julie, are incredibly kind, patient, and supportive. In addition, they go out of their way to welcome newcomers to multiple Dancer University events each week and to introduce them to the wider salsa community. I highly recommend this class to anyone looking to learn, to grow, and--most importantly--to get their rear ends off the couch & have some fun! read more

They're amazing! I just took their 12 week Beginner Salsa class with Herman and Jules and they were so thoughtful, patient, and fun with teaching the class to a complete beginner to dance like myself! They also spend tons of time outside of the class time answering questions if you have them. If you're even a little on the fence about it, just go and check it out! read more

First of all who doesn't LOVE dancing! I am at my happiest when I am able to to dance and and express myself. I have heard about this place from a weekly social event at the Victorians on Thursday nights hosted by Nicole who os one of the sweetest and Knowledgable instructor. I decided to take a class from this lovely couple Pati and Alan which were both from Spain. They were teaching a sensual Bachata class which I love the style. Here is their IG of yiu are interested. https://www.instagram.com/alanypati_bachatasensual/ The studio has a page where you can see the schedule on allllll the different styles of dancing and also the instructors. If you have been thinking about picking up a new hobby this is a great way to start. read more

Dancer University - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

amazing community and Nicole is the absolute best instructor - she's hilarious and breaks down the dance steps well with instructions that are easy to understand and ties in with the "why" we do certain moves instead of just trying to drill it in you. would highly recommend! read more

I took the course for Bachata for 3 months duration. (Zero to Hero) The classes were very effective and fun I think. This is a great way socializing and having new friends and improving your latin dance skills. Nicole and Alayn are very friendly and professional instructors. I never missed any class. (Definitely not boring!!!) At the end of every class they do 1 on 1s and give you feedback about your dance performance for the week. They also perform every week for us taking a video at the end of the class what we learned for that day, for us to review it at home and practice. This course definitely helped improving my Bachata skill. You would be investing your money not wasting it!!! I'll be continuing it when Im back to town! read more

Dancer University - Bachata Zero to Hero at our last class - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

After taking a 6 weeks course of Bachata 1, I feel inspire to continue and learn more. I've taken my share of salsa and bachata classes throughout LA, I can certainly say that Dancer University and its structure to teach dancing is the best I've experienced for a number of reasons! 1. It's structured in group class over a # of weeks, so you get to learn new moves, review it and learn more each week. Adding to your dance-moves list! 2. The instructors are very knowledgeable, super friendly, talented, and patient! 3. Both Leads and Followers dance moves are reviewed! 4. It's a fun and welcoming environment for everyone! Nothing pretentious. 5. Last but not least, one on one attention with the instructor with instant feedback - the best! I can go on and on but these are enough for me to continue :) I look forward to the next session! read more

Best bachata sensual class that you can ever take in the city of Los Angeles! All the classes are fun. Instructors Nicole and Emre are very friendly and teach us all the details about new choreographies very patiently. They organize daily salsa/bachata events and it is a big plus to improve what we have learnt in the class. Don't think twice and just join this community! :) read more

Dancer University - Bachata Class - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Bachata with Nicole and Alayn has been a defining experience of my journey to LA! I love dancing with you, the technical skills and development, the COMMUNITY OF LOVELY HUMANS MOST OF ALL! I stumbled into the Victorian a year and a half ago, and after taking Bachata I and Bachata Zero to Hero (AMAZING intensive) I feel so much more confident in my form and responsiveness to partners. All the extraordinary skill, synthesis of information, curation of the class aside (which are entirely world-class) -- Nicole and Alayn are FUN. You can tell they radiate joy when they dance and have crafted a community to share that. You're going to be delighted by Dancer U. read more

Super grateful for hearing about this studio! I've been taking bachata as part of the 12-week course and love the structure of the class and am learning so much so fast!! Definitely recommend this place for beginner/intermediate training for salsa and bachata. read more

Super friendly, clear instruction, and high energy! If you're curious about salsa or bachata, start here!

All of the staff are incredibly welcoming and warm. The instructors all provide a safe space conducive to learning salsa and bachata and the classes are a ton of fun! The space is nice and well kept and overall I had a wonderful experience. Would absolutely recommend taking classes here! read more

Unleashing Passion and Talent Rating: I recently had the privilege of experiencing called taught by Alayn and Nicole, and let me tell you, it was an absolute revelation! From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was immersed in an environment brimming with passion, talent, and a genuine love for the art of salsa and bachata. The instructors here are wonderful. Their expertise, dedication, and ability to inspire are unmatched. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, they create a supportive and nurturing atmosphere where everyone feels welcome to explore their potential. Each instructor brings a unique style and approach, which adds richness and diversity to the dance education they provide. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed for you to learn and be at your best at social events and you will always be part of a crowd when you arrive. read more

The #1 salsa & bachata school & community in Los Angeles! I've been a part of Nicole's dance community for several years now and I have so much to say about her and her classes. First and foremost, Nicole in an INCREDIBLE teacher and has a teaching method that actually works! ANYONE who takes her classes seriously WILL learn how to dance, no matter how much experience they have or do not have. In addition, Nicole has a unique talent of bringing people together in the best of ways. Through her classes, we have made many friends, some who've become like family. Dancer University students often meet at dance events, throw parties together and even travel around the world to amazing dance events together. As for the studio, it's a clean space with great floor and A/C. The mirrors are always squeaky clean, and Nicole is a kind person to work with. We've also taken other teachers' classes at Dancer University, and have definitely enjoyed them! If you want to get into the salsa or bachata scheme in LA, this place will be the best way to do it!! read more

Dancer University - Dancer University students at Las Vegas Salsa & Bachata Super Congress - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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A friendly and welcoming environment to learn Salsa! I took a 6-week salsa 1 course with instructors Michael and Eliana. I was impressed by how organized these classes were, and how much I learned in just 6 weeks! After teaching us new moves, the instructors do 1:1 dancing sessions with each of us to give us direct feedback to improve our skills. Then they videotape the lesson from that day and send it out so we can continue practicing at home. Not only did I learn to dance here, but I was welcomed into the Los Angeles Salsa community. I had no idea that there were so many salsa events going on around LA. Through this class, I formed connections and found an entry to these other Salsa events--so much fun! Highly recommend Dancer University for your dancing needs! read more

There are two things to keep in mind regarding Dancer University: Building community and developing Your Dance Skills. Nicole has created a wonderful environment for you to develop your community and your skills. As Nicole has demonstrated and set, DU dancers will greet newcomers with grace, joy, and warmth. The Salsa 1 instructors, Michael and Eliana, are as hospitable and kind as they come. They are great at connecting and giving encouragement. Towards the end of each lesson, they will dance with you one-on-one and give you feedback on what you learned that day. If you're looking for a location to learn salsa and bachata, have community, meet dancers, go no further than DU. read more

I really enjoy the bachata classes here and the supportive environment of both the teachers and fellow students. Everyone taking class is there to learn and there is no judging of one another. They even have a once a week practice session on Saturdays that is SUPER helpful in practicing what we learned. My only suggestion is a once a week advanced drop in class for both bachata and salsa at a rate that is comparable to other dance studios in town. Due to my personnel schedule and budget - I am not always able to enroll in the 6-8 week classes. However would love the option to drop in on an advanced level class. read more

I recently signed up for the 3 month Bachata class at Dancer University and LOVE the instruction and environment here. I first took Nicole's class at the Victorian and I also took her class at 18 Social in DTLA. I like how she breaks down the information and is very detail oriented in her dance classes. I also enjoy how Alayn and Nicole make jokes in class. The way they share information is funny. I think its great that she encourages her students to go out and dance together and research moves in videos and live dances. You can tell she really cares about teaching and her students and she's created a really warm and inviting community at Dancer University :) read more

I really wanted to wait until the end of bachata 1 series to share my review about dancer university but I couldn't help myself. I have been looking for a good place to dance salsa or bachata on the west side, since I live in Marina del Rey and i have actually attended classes from other instructors but nothing compares to the Nicole's classes. She is willing to go above and beyond to help every single student understand every movement and combo. Being a beginner, I wasn't sure how long it was going to take me to learn but after just a few classes, i've gained the confidence to go social dancing and practice everything i've learned here. Prices are also much better than any other instructor in and outside of the area (trust me, I did my research). I highly recommend signing up! I'm already taking privates and looking to really level up my bachata dancing skills. read more

Dancer University - Private bachata lesson - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

If you are looking for an awesome dance studio that will welcome you no matter your level, I highly recommend Dancer University. Nicole Gil is amazing and all the instructors there are phenomenal. They always break down all the steps for an easier understanding. New steps are added weekly and previous weeks are reviewed to help you add dance moves and put them all together. To make things better, at the end of every class you get a chance to dance with your instructor for one-on-one feedback. The environment is super friendly with high positive energy that will have you coming back for more learning. read more

Dancer University - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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You gotta do it! I started with Salsa 1 with Belen and Mo and jumped up to Salsa 2 with Belen and Joe. The classes are absolutely fantastic. The instructors are not only wickedly talented but also all-around great people. I went solo and was happy to find that most folks were too. It's an awesome way to dive into the Salsa scene and meet some really cool people. I can't recommend this place enough! read more

What a great place to learn dancing! Instructors are very professional and helpful. Classes are not too full so you have a chance to get a personal input and improve faster. They also have the best events on LA! Definitely recommend this dance studio for anyone looking to start dancing salsa and bachata! read more

Signing up for the Salsa 1 class here was one of the best decisions I've made. The instructors here are incredible (shout out to Michael and Eliana) and employ a teaching approach grounded in warmth and positivity, which is great for us beginners. But most of all, this place has opened the door to an amazing community that I hadn't known to exist even a couple of months ago. For anyone even thinking about taking Salsa lessons, I highly suggest you give it a go here. I came in half-expecting to give it up after a few lessons just to check the box on some New Years resolutions, but now I find myself finding any excuse to dance and practice with classmates out in the wild. Can't wait for Salsa 2 and beyond - what Nicole has created here is incredible. read more

TLDR?: No need to do any more research, sign up right away, Dancer University's got all the right boxes checked! I take both the salsa and bachata group classes, and I plan to stay enrolled basically forever! "DU" has the best combo of instructors + students + overall offering I've ever come across. Let me explain: Instructors: Outside of DU, there are many instructors who look great dancing, but aren't very good at teaching YOU how to dance. But Nicole & co are great at breaking it down to make everything easy to understand, whatever level you are. Another distinction that's just as important is that other instructors can have a chip on their shoulders, which can really deflate your excitement/motivation. Meanwhile DU instructors are super friendly and inviting, it's really important to have a welcoming/encouraging environment! Students: Yes you're here for the teaching, but the students are just as important because they're who you'll be practicing with during and outside of the classes. Maybe it's Nicole's positive vibes that attracts friendly/happy students, maybe it's the salsa/bachata scene in general, either way you'll look forward to rubbing shoulders with everyone. More than that, it's kind of a 2nd family. You'll be added to WhatsApp groups, see fellow students at social dancing, at salsa festivals, even group salsa trips! Overall offering: It's rare to find this combo, but DU's got its own studio space for the lessons *PLUS* DU also hosts weekly practice sessions where students from all classes are welcome to practice together (did I mention that the fellow students are great?) *PLUS* DU/Nicole hosts group classes followed by social dancing at a few different venues every week. Basically DU's a turn-key one-stop shop, you simply need to show up :) Bonus: Most people are ultimately interested in social dancing (vs choreographed performances). I love that DU puts attention on social dancing considerations, like musicality, navigating sensual bachata moves, what to do if xyz happens on the dance floor, etc. If you've made it this far, well done, clearly you've got tenacity and aren't giving up. Therefore, I'm looking forward to seeing you in the classes and on the dance floor soon! read more

While I've dabbled in social dancing for a year or so, it wasn't until I took a series with Nicole and Emre at this studio that I truly felt a gained confidence and understanding of the dance. Both instructors are so thorough and professional, especially in their command of the technical aspect of the dance. What I appreciated most is that during each class the two instructors dance with each lead/ follow to ensure their grasp of the lesson and connection points. Besides their knowledge base, they also create such a safe space and welcoming environment for us all. Especially if you're a transplant looking for a sense of community, like so many of us! read more

I was looking for a dancing studio around my area, I came across this gem. Nicole and Stephen are amazing instructors! The classes are set up in small groups which allows them to work with you 1-1. I took bachata level 1 and looking to sign up for level 2. I must say what I enjoyed the most is the sense of community; everyone is so friendly and it was so much fun! read more

Wow! I love this place! The teachers are amazing the community is great. Recommended for everyone!

The best studio in town! Welcoming and friendly environment for ALL levels. Especially if you are new to salsa or bachata and are nervous to learn. Check them out you will not regret it! read more

This studio is definitely more than the sum of its parts. Beyond the classes, which are top notch and well organized, there is an amazing community of fellow students who I am proud to call friends! Nicole has built a supportive community of great dancers and more importantly great people. The multi week progressive class format at the studio is extremely beneficial, allowing you to build familiarity with your own movement and with consistent partners in a safe, positive and fun environment. I've completed multiple bachata and salsa series at Dancer University and don't plan on stopping anytime soon! read more

Dancer University - July 2022 Salsa 3 Series!! 3 - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I went to the Victorian for salsa on a Thursday night after my roommate recommended it. Little did I know that it was Nicole's birthday. "Who is Nicole?" I asked the bartender. She smiled and told me that Nicole has pretty much built the LA salsa community from scratch. I did not know a single thing about salsa, but I understood that I could take beginner salsa classes with Nicole at Dancer University, so I enrolled. Michael & Eliana were my salsa 1 instructors. They made sure that my classmates and I practiced each basic move and turn until they flowed naturally without giving much thought. They were outstanding and patient instructors, and I would recommend this class to anyone who has stumbled upon salsa dancing, but doesn't know where to start. read more

Absolutely elite. Nicole is one of the kindest and most talented dance teachers I've ever met. She provides classes at all levels and is expert at breaking it down and truly teaching students how to dance and improve. She also studies dance all over the world and brings it back to the students here in LA. Dancer University is also one of the best dance communities in the city, with their weekly practices and constant encouragement and sharing of events/activities/socials/etc. Everyone is so welcoming. read more

Dancer University with Nicole and Alan was such a great experience. I had never taken a dance class in my life, and I knew that four weeks wouldn't cut it for me, so I signed up for the three month Bachata: From Zero to Hero class. I attended every class save one and went to all the practices afterward too. After about six weeks, I started feeling a lot more comfortable doing social dancing, and a couple of the people I saw there remarked how much better I'd gotten. I give the credit to Nicole and Alan for all their detailed feedback and for making it all so fun that I couldn't stop practicing! Highly recommend coming here not just for the dance but for all the friends you'll make along the way :) read more

I took Bachata level #1 with Nicole and Stephen. They are really knowledgeable, talented, and patient instructors. This is a great dance studio with friendly and welcoming community. I'm so very happy with this class and looking forward to taking more.  Highly recommend the studio! read more