Cucala Dance Company — Local services in New York

I joined dance classes when I moved to New York yrs ago to not only escape through dancing, and learn, but also in hopes of finding a community. Salsa was a beautiful introduction of all those things and lead me to these incredible dancer folks and friendships. Dre was one of my dance teachers for many years and till this day I enjoy going to classes because there’s always something to learn(plus I get to see my favorite people!!) while having fun. Cucala dance company isn’t just a place to dance, and learn, you also become a part of this dance community and create genuine connections. Salsa on 2 is one of the things that make New York so special. Being a part of it and with people that love it as much as you is what makes this whole experience beautiful and why I keep going back to take classes. Dre and gabby and the entire team do a very good job at explaining step by step the footwork for both followers and leaders. If you’ve never danced in your life and curious to take a class. I encourage it, there’s beginner levels that spends more time on the basic steps. You don’t have to have a partner to join because everyone rotate in the class. There’s more, for those that are new to this, there’s social dances that happens every week in NYC where you can practice with other salsa dance lovers. It’s basically at a venue/studio with a Dj playing the best salsa music and you dance all night. Get ready to be addicted to this world and buy cute dancing shoes cause you’re gonna...

As someone who is, actually, not into dancing salsa that much, I can assure you - these guys here will start a new life for you! I had no idea how much fun it was until I got myself into one of their classes. So here are some pros&cons for you to consider. Pros: all of the instructors are super cool professional salsa dancers (I could tell) which makes me trust them on what they teach you to do; the vibe!!!!! Such an easy going, fun and patient people, just love it. Also, they make everyone feel very welcomed; They explaine every move in the way that you UNDERSTAND how exactly and what exactly you need to do to make it right so I didn't feel like I was a bad dancer (actually felt quite the opposite); Have met so many cool people at the class, so definitely a great way to socialize (which we all missed in the passed 2 years lol). Cons: classes are available on Sundays only for now. I definitely want more during the week. So much hope they will add more time slots to their schedule, cause...

So thankful I found Cucala! I have been taking classes here for a little over a year, with all the instructors. They are very personable and break things down for you. Above all, they make me feel at home :)

I have done the Salsa 102 cycle, bachata performance bootcamps and classes, and countless drop-ins on the weekend and Thursday evenings for advanced beginner lessons. The class sizes are just right and I am comfortable asking questions in this super welcoming space.

I grew up in Queens and am happy to find a studio here that could offer the community I experienced in Boston/Cambridge learning salsa and bachata during grad school. Dancing is important for my mental health and when I am having a difficult week, I try to go to Cucala so I can have fun and stay in...