I had been dancing salsa on and off for a couple of years before taking classes with Danella, and after a year and a half of training with her, it's completely changed the way I dance. She gets you dancing right away, records every class for review, and brings the vibes every week. More importantly, she teaches musicality, not just patterns. Instead of memorizing moves, she teaches you how to move comfortably and confidently, how to listen to the music, connect with it, and eventually express yourself on the dance floor. That said, you have to put in the work outside of class. It won't happen overnight. But if you do, the growth is incredible. If you want to move beyond memorizing patterns and actually learn how to dance, take this class. You can thank me later read more

Danella's class is the BEST. We thought we would try one salsa class as part of a new year's resolution to try something new and ended up loving Danella so much that we've now been dancing with her for almost two years! She does a fantastic job making new people feel comfortable and welcome. My partner had never danced in his entire life and was able to immediately thrive in her class. She creates a space where it's okay to mess up and there's no pressure to be perfect but instead it's a way to learn how to get better. She also does such a good job making the group class feel personal- she'll give you individual pointers and feedback that make it feel like she's really paying attention to and invested in everyone on an individual level. If you've been looking for a dance class don't waste any more time and just take Danellas classes you will not regret it!! read more

I absolutely love learning Salsa from Danella! She's an incredible teacher, patient, encouraging, and so much fun to learn from. I first tried her classes over a year ago, and to this day they're still the highlight of my week. I've learned so much and always leave class feeling energized and happy. Highly recommend her classes to anyone wanting to learn Salsa! read more

I love dancing, and wanted to improve my salsa skills, and was referred to Danella's class by a friend - I'm so happy I tried it out! I've been attending weekly classes for a few months and have learned so many things about dance and salsa specifically that I legit did not realize before. I recommend joining her classes even if you are a beginner!! She observes each student even in the larger classes, and everything feels encouraging, from the style of teaching to the format of the classes where you rotate between partners and hone your skills. read more

Danella is amazing instructor! I had taken Salsa classes in the past but my only regret is not finding her sooner. I started classes again with the goal of being able to social dance by the time I go to PR in September. I not only feel like I'll be able to do that but also will be coming to class for the foreseeable future beyond my vacation, and looking forward to learning new styles of dance as well. Danella breaks everything down so you actually learn how to dance, and are not just learning a routine. Group classes are so fun and well structured! Private lessons are also amazing. Definitely worth giving them a try in between group classes; I feel so much more confident in my knowledge of the basics and just confident in group classes overall. If you're looking to learn, finding a new form of activity, or a new hobby, I could not recommend her more! read more

This truly is the best salsa class! I looked for months before committing to a class and this one just had the best vibe. I started as an absolute beginner and Danella made me feel super comfortable and confident from the start. She goes at a great pace where you do not feel lost, but also are constantly learning something new. On top of that she is just super friendly and hilarious. I also really liked that the beginner class is very casual and you can just wear comfy clothes and sneakers. You do not need to have a partner and will dance with everyone. The other people in the class have been very welcoming and fun. You will love this class and Danella. Sign up! read more

Danella was a warm welcome when I had just moved to LA. Now, a decade later, as a thriving actor and music artist. she is my #1 go-to whenever I have a live performance or a special event. She is as talented as she is passionate as she is fun, and I'm grateful to call her friend and to have such a reliable source when it comes to dance. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! read more

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Wow. Looking at my first review, I realized in a few months it will have been 8 years since I started taking lessons with Danella. I took a few years off because of covid (2020-2022), but came back as soon as it felt right for me to come back. I don't even know where to start here. I grew up on the east coast, and being mixed, not only was I often mistaken for being Puerto Rican, but I also felt most welcomed by Puerto Rican and Dominican communities. My teenage years were spent in my friends' backyards listening to salsa, bachata, merengue. Yet, I somehow never became a "good" dancer. I took lessons during college and as a young professional with 5-6 different instructors over the course of 5-6 years. I never learned more than the basic steps and basic turn patterns and never felt very confident on the dance floor. Training with Danella has transformed the way I dance. The transformation isn't just about learning how to dance, but learning how to be present in my own body in my own space and working with what I have. As a curvy gal, I will never be as graceful and feminine/cute as some of my thinner counterparts, and I am here to tell you all that it is entirely ok. I have learned how to sit in the music, how to sit comfortably in my body space, and how to rock that space with confidence and my own style (be patient, this took years and is something I work on continuously). I have never been so confident in my physical presence as I am today and Danella's classes have played a massive role in that boost. I went from watching in awe on the sidelines 8 years ago wishing and hoping to someday be even 1/2 as good as some of the people out at social spots and being turned down left and right for my lack of experience. Now, people approach me often at social events to tell me they hope to dance like me someday. The LA social dancing scene is kind of rough when it comes to camaraderie, but Danella has built a community of dancers who support and encourage one another. Coming to her classes and being with her people (now my people) makes me feel like home. read more

Great place, fabulous ambiance & fun yet professional choreographer 2 absorb dance. Danella terms mastery "Muscle Memory." I'm getting there. The Hollywood Dance Studio hosts Danella Dutton's numerous amusing classes. I've learned so much from our small dance community. I'm taking "On-1 Beginning Salsa" Monday nights. Danella has a bellowing laugh & a sparkling wit, which she transmits like light beams to everyone in Studio. I began so nervously. What a tenderfoot. I've now transformed into a less haha awkward dancer in 10 months. Apologies, guys & ladies more experienced than I. Everything I expect in a superior salsa class is here: warm up, instruction by Ms Dutton, practice footwork, lots of rotations w/warm, friendly partners 2 internalize the 10 steps I've actually mastered. I'm vibing more steps as the year progresses. I promise. Danella (w/waivers from all,) records every session, if you miss one. But you must download session next day, or video disappears. But try not 2 miss the 6 week sessions. Be kind 2 your classmates. Remember 2 respect others' personal space, even in crowded quarters. Highly recommended series. Danella also offers bachata, Salsa on-2 (East Coast,) intermediate & Crew Level Team. Check out her DanellaDutton.com website. Wear comfortable clothes. Tennies. Arrive early enough 2 leave 15 mins 2 actually find parking. Safe, "trending" neighborhood. read more

Danella Dutton - Queen of Dance, Danella Dutton@ The Club Night. - Dance Studios Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Taking lessons with Danella at any level is soothing for the soul! She's friendly, passionate, and always keeps the class moving. Not only does she break down the steps in a clear and concise manner, but she's inspiration personified! Extra bonus--the salsa community is welcoming and extremely supportive. Sign up now. You'll thank yourself and Danella! read more

I am so glad to choose Danella as my salsa dancing teacher! I started with groupon and continued to take classes more than 2 years until I moved to a further place. I still think to go back classes at times. I had fun during classes and everyone was very friendly. You dance with different people which makes you realize different styles and yourself better. Danella was very helpful and explaining every step patiently and correcting individually when needed. She has salsa nights and classes to bring your courage at social dancing:) I miss those days and highly recommend Danella Dutton dance classes! You won't regret.. read more

Danella's a great teacher, has an amazing attitude and keeps the class moving so we get to learn so much in just one class. I took a 6-week course and am looking for future courses to join this summer! read more

I've been taking salsa lessons at Danella's since 2019 and I can say that her energy is infectious, and she has a way of making you feel like you can conquer the dance floor. She's incredibly knowledgeable about the technique and she's always willing to break down the moves to make sure you understand them. But what really sets her apart is her ability to make the class FUN! She plays great music, and her enthusiasm is contagious. I leave every class feeling like I've had a great workout and a blast. If you're looking for a salsa instructor who will challenge you and make you smile Danella is the one! read more

Danella Dutton - Salsa Friday Intermediate level - Dance Studios Near Me - Los Angeles, California

5 stars all the way! I take private lessons with her and highly recommend. Danella is a skilled and patient dance instructor with a great sense of humor! read more

Danella helped my daughter and I work out a Father/Daughter dance for her wedding. A bit of tango, and lots of fun. A great relief for me to have her choreograph and teach us the moves. She's also lots of fun and easy to work with!! Brava, Danella!! read more

My husband and I wanted to get into salsa - I had some experience but he was brand new. By the end of 10 lessons he is confidently leading me and having so much fun doing it! Danella has a great eye and a good way of working with people at all levels to make them feel comfortable. She makes the experience fun and easy with lots of good spirits and specific, helpful guidance! read more

We had such an awesome time learning salsa from Danella for our wedding first dance and also have stayed on for general group classes because we are loving sharing this hobby as a couple! Danella is an incredible teacher, she commands the group lessons masterfully but also takes the time in individual lessons to coach, refine, and add styling. We are excited to continue coming back to Danella's classes! read more

Danella Dutton - Appreciated learning from Danella for wedding first dance - Dance Studios Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Danella is AMAZING. I took her beginner and beg/intermediate on2 & on1 Group Salsa classes multiple times on Highland in LA. I've been to a handful of different sessions throughout LA (Granada, The Warehouse, Floridita, Sofitel, etc) and she is by far the best teacher in my opinion. She stresses technique over everything, and I not only see the difference in myself, but also in other students. She has such a wonderful way of explaining movements and what you're supposed to feel. Danella brings the same level of energy to every single class, and is always very encouraging and helpful. Her group classes usually start with footwork and then quickly evolve to group work where you constantly practice a sequence of moves with alternating partners. This gives you the opportunity to feel what it's like to dance with different people (helps sooo much for when you go social dancing). Patient, enthusiastic, and masterful. read more

i send a joyful Grito out to the Maestra herself! Danella Dutton is a teacher you must experience. She has got flavor man. i mean this in the most salsa kinda way. So, many teacher have the moves but no flavor Her instruction is clear. She can teach well both men and women. She answers our endless mind baffling newby questions. I found her classes more fun than the 6-7 classes and teachers i tried before her class. So, quit your blinking chismoso and get your beautiful bottoms in here! She is just a great human being. She has taught me so much. Its probably her shoes... read more

LOVE! Highly recommend! I've taken a few salsa classes and Danella is by far the best! She takes the time to teach you the basics so you have a solid foundation to build from. She teaches you to hear/feel the music so you learn to dance to the beat (which for someone who has no rhythm, this was HUGE for me) She is genuinely so invested in each and every student's growth and makes class so much fun! read more

Danella is an amazing teacher! I took her begginers salsa classes and they are amazing! She creates a great athmosphere to learn, but also to socialize with other people, so its not necesarry to bring a couple, althought its way more fun with friends! If you are thinking about taking classes, go for it! read more

Danella is a GREAT teacher. I'm a beginner and she has a way of explaining how to think about dance that is easy to understand and apply. She has a warmth and humor that makes her classes really fun and she has a depth and breadth of knowledge that is truly impressive. And she attracts fun people so the classes I went to were full of great dancers and friendly people. I highly recommend Danella's classes to my friends. AND it's a great value. read more

I began taking Danella's salsa classes as a complete beginner 1 year ago after finding her online. Now I've progressed to her intermediate classes and look forward to coming to her classes every week! Danella has an energetic, welcoming personality and creates the perfect combination of foundational skills with passion for dance in her classes. Joining her dance studio has opened up so many opportunities in LA for friendship, community, social events, and building new skills- I am forever grateful! read more

Danella is the best! My mother gave my husband and I a gift certificate for a series of private salsa lessons with Danella as a Christmas gift. We had very limited experience, but Danella made the lessons so fun and accessible. She listened to us and understood what we wanted to learn, and she was excellent at identifying little things we had trouble with and explaining/demonstrating them in a way that made sense to us. We enjoyed the lessons so much that we continued working with Danella after we used up our gift certificate lessons. We also recommended Danella to a friend, who then took classes with her and had a great experience. I would highly recommend working with Danella. She's a great teacher and really fun to be around. read more

I came to Danella's class not knowing any Salsa and, 1.5 years later, am now having so much fun confidently exploring the vibrant LA salsa scene with great friends I've made through her program! Danella know her stuff, and does a great job of breaking down concepts so they're easy to learn in an environment which feels safe, friendly and focused. Not only have I become a confident salsa dancer in taking her class, but have found a warm community of people who are passionate about dancing. If you're curious about Salsa or Bachata, or are looking to get back into it, you couldn't ask for a better instructor than Danella! read more

She's the best teacher I've had, and I've gone to many different studios. She is the best at structuring classes and really helping you understand the different dance styles she offers. Her customers satisfaction goes without question and because of it she has been able to create a community of dancer that are loyal. You don't only get an amazing teacher but friends to support you throughout your dance journey. read more

I've taken salsa and bachata classes on and off over the years from many different instructors and Danella is hands down the best. She teaches you how to know and get into your body, hear the music, and actually DANCE! She is encouraging and motivating, helps you figure out and achieve your personal goals, and regularly hosts workshops and social events to help you level-up and practice. Equally important is how Danella fosters a genuine sense of community and creates something really special that I haven't found at other dance studios. This is most certainly due to the tone of friendship and respect that she sets, how much fun she makes class, and just the gem of a person that she is, which in turn attracts great students. I have made many wonderful friends at her studio and absolutely adore everyone in class. The past year as Danella's student has felt like coming home to myself, and taking her classes has been one of the best decisions I've made. read more

Danella is INCREDIBLE!! If you need a sign to choose her for dance classes, this is the sign. My bf and I have never taken salsa classes prior to her class and now it's what we look forward to every week. The way she's able to connect with everyone who joins and make them feel welcome is truly a gift. All the other students I chat with all share the same sentiment of how enjoyable the class is and how we feel like the weeks always fly by because the class is so fun! Plus: parking is easy and the studio itself is wonderful and in a great location :) read more

Danella's classes are incredible, simple as that. I came into them having zero dancing experience, had no coordination or rhythm to my body. Now it's been almost a year later and I've improved so much. It really has been an amazing thing to see my own dance abilities gradually develop and improve over time. I have been taking Danella's salsa and bachata classes. While I was initially very nervous about joining, my nerves were quelled once I saw just how friendly her classes are. There are pockets of students who are her "veterans", students who have been around for a while and are very much the root of this nurturing environment. They're super welcoming and warm. Socialize in class and before you know it you'll be getting invited out to social dancing with these wonderful groups. Danella's teaching style is to get right into the steps and moves. While it might seem like she moves pretty quickly at first (at least, that's how it seemed to me as a complete beginner), with practice and consistency, you'll be able to keep up with the best of them. But make no mistake, you are going to need to put in that practice on your own time too. Can't just coast off of class time practice. The three most important tips I have to any beginners are the following: you have to go to classes consistently, you have to practice the moves on your own, and you have to go out social dancing. That last one was hard for me to actually start up, but it really makes a world of difference in terms of improving your dancing. Danella will tell you as much herself. So if you've been wanting to learn salsa or bachata for a while but keep coming up with excuses for why you ought to put it off another while- stop it! Give it a try. But give it an hard, honest try! Have fun out see y'all out on the dance floor! read more

At first I thought I'll get the hand of salsa dancing quickly based on my active body. However I found out quickly that my feet aren't good at dancing even though I feel like a natural in many other activities. To be honest I would've quit if it wasn't for Danella, so much self doubt and self criticism. But with her encouragement, patience and great skills as a teacher I keep coming back and I'm pretty sure I can master salsa even though it will take me longer than expected. I love how she changes her ways of teaching throughout different classes some ways are more difficult some are easier with this I can tell that she does her best to adapt her teachings to the different types of students. read more

I have had such a blast in both group and private classes with Danella! I've taken both Salsa On2 and Bachata classes. She brings passion and fun to even the most structured aspects of dance. Her musicality is on point and she has such a knack for figuring out the tips we need to improve! It's hard to find an instructor like Danella! She is brilliant ! read more

I signed up for beginner's salsa on2. Hands down Best instructor ever, Danella is so encouraging, makes it fun excited and easy to learn. Next class is bachata weppa! So don't be shy & sign up for a class you'll have a great experience read more

I have taken two of Danella's classes and found her very upbeat and Telly liked her teaching style. She is extremely knowledgeable and made it enjoyable for a novice. I love dancing and she was very encouraging in her style. read more

Danella is an amazing instructor and creates a space for learning and building community. Each six week series gives you new information to grow as a dancer, and within the six weeks, you really see your progression! I am addicted and now take classes 2x a week. Private lessons are also worth it. I wouldn't take classes anywhere else - highly rec! read more

Danella is cool af. Her teaching style could get through the most rigid of bodies. I signed up for classes with my wife and we had a great time. It would have been nice to dance solely with my wife however, it was a great learning experience and would recommend others attend these classes especially if you suck at dancing as much as I did when we signed up for the course. Make sure to practice between classes or you will remain a terrible dancer. read more

Danella is the best dance teacher ever! I was very scared to even try salsa dancing because I am not a good dancer and felt like I have 4 left feet! I have truly enjoyed each class and her patience with all of her students! She is beyond amazing and will push you to be the best that you can be! She enjoys her students. She also allows you to truly feel the music and the movements!!! I started off with a groupon and now I am enrolled in her classes and her clinics as well. This is a must in my life and obviously all of the other students that keep coming back as well. We all have the absolute best time in class together. I would recommend this class to everyone I know...in fact I have!! Love love love this class!! Thank you for being such a great teacher! Looking forward to continuing my classes with her! read more

I've been salsa dancing for many years and I'm so glad I finally found Danella - I was never quite sure why my moves didn't look quite right until I got her expert advice. In just a few classes she has really helped me level up my moves and few more confident when I dance. read more

Danella's classes are fun, informative, and welcoming. We learned so much and had a blast! I started taking group classes in Los Angeles before covid, and after just a few classes, I felt ready to go to a salsa club which was great. It's an active and fun way to exercise. I also took a few private individual lessons with her which were very helpful and expedited my progress. She can dance both as the lead and the follow, which is one of the many things that makes her an effective teacher. During covid, my husband and I took virtual group classes and even got our extended family involved. It was a huge blessing to get to connect with family across the nation through Danella's salsa classes. If you're looking to learn salsa, there is no better environment or teacher! read more

Very fun class! My husband and I took this class and had such a great time. We were total beginners and felt like we learned a lot and were able to dance together at the end of it. read more

This was my first Salsa class. I used to just try to learn from youtube. It's a whole lot different when you take an actual class. It's really a whole lot of fun. And with Danella, she is a superb instructor. It's attention to details with her. I have taken the beginner's twice and still learned something new all the time. I look forward to joining her class again. However, at this time, I have other obligations I have to attend to. I am still practicing what I have learned and integrating it into my daily workout, so I can come back where I left off. Salsa is definitely a powerful tool for fitness. read more