I came across Arden's classes in part by chance, in part by suggestion from other dancers. In…read moregeneral I'm quite picky about dance instructors (or teachers in general), so if the instructors are not good (patient, explains well, helpful, fun, welcoming, etc), I end up dropping off quite soon. It just took me a few minutes to feel the good vibe and warm, supportive, family-like environment they create in theses classes. And I keep training with him and his associates ever since.
Theirs are some of the best classes I have attended in several years. Independently of your level, these classes are exciting and fun/challenging. All levels are welcome, and everybody have a lot of fun. Often newcomers (including people who are trying bachata or salsa or general dancing for the first time) get to do the mini sequence which includes intermediate steps. All the moves are intended to be practicable at social dancing.
Warm up, core exercise and stretching is included at the beginning of each class, followed by drills and techniques, and a routine to be performed at local Latin dancing clubs and festivals/congresses. However, performing is completely optional. If you would like to perform but feel you don't have the level, they will help you to get there.
Training with them I passed from my plateau of intermediate/just ok level at social dancing to performance level and getting complemented by many of my dancing partners at social events. So it is not only for beginners. Intermediate or seasoned dancers will benefit from these classes as well.
The instructors are energetic, fun and very helpful; they create a fun, welcoming, easy-going atmosphere that everybody enjoys. If you struggle with a particular step, they will go over and over with you, with different approaches, until you get it. They don't give up on you, and no one is left behind. For them, the students and the team is like a family, and so they promote similar values.
Even in other cities/states where they go to teach workshops at dance festivals, they are loved, admired and followed. Some people would travel from another state or from out of the country to attend their workshops.
All this apply to each one of their instructors: Arden Ebalo, Erika Saucillo, Jessica Trujillo, Gracie Flores and Tony Flores. All of them are exceptional at what they do, both teaching and performing, and they do it in a fun and warm way.
As their old saying tells: once a "questie", always a "questie". That is how people feels about this team of instructors.
Just one warning: if you try it, you'll love it!
What are you waiting for?
If you are curious, give it a try. The first class is free.
