Learn the world's most popular social dance!
Wednesdays at Willard Straight Hall 5th Floor Lounge. Online Registration
Salsa Beginner 1 6:15-7:30pm
Salsa Beginner 2 7:35-8:50pm
Beginner 1 covers the fundamentals of timing, rhythm, body movement, lead-follow connection, basic step patterns and partner combinations. Students learn principles of Latin dance and musicality and how to incorporate this into Salsa dancing.
Beginner 2 incorporates Beginner 1 repertoire - right turns, cross-body leads, veils, hand changes, basic steps in closed and open position - and adds to it: left turns, open-break turns, cross-body lead variation, turn combinations, free style technique and styling. For continuing students.
Social dance practice with one-on-one assistance held at the end of each class. Music folders and video recording available.
Dates:  4.8, 4.15, 4.22, 4.29, 5.6, 5.13

Format
Class begins with a body movement warm-up. We teach Salsa step variations (aka "shines") and movement patterns in rotating lines. In the second half of class we apply these step patterns and turns in partner format, forming combinations through lead-follow. Class ends with a 10 minute practice session, where repetition of moves and individual assistance from instructors help solidify skills.

Salsa Musicality
In Salsa, timing, rhythm and dance flow is cued to the dancer through layered music. Lead and follow between partners is created through the frame, points of connection, and tension. The flavor of Salsa derives from a fusion of Afro-Latin and European music and dance forms, enhanced by contributions from cultural aesthetics around the world, including jazz, ballroom and various styles of pop music. Salsa is ecumenical, dynamic and accessible. Beginner Salsa will help you acquire the skills and sensibility necessary to survive on the dance floor, advance to higher levels, and form the basis for your own style.

Venue
The WSH 5th floor lounge is a voluminous gothic space with studio mirrors and over 1500 square feet of fine hardwood floor. Made for dance lovers!
Parking: Available behind WSH Cinema, across the road behind Anabel Taylor Hall, and elsewhere on West and Central campus.

Attire
Wear comfortable, fitted, non-baggy attire. We suggest dance shoes, flats, worn sneakers or other well-fitted footwear that is easy to move in. Loose shoes and high heels not recommended.

Dinner and Dance Party
Every Wednesday Salsa dance parties are held after class at Agava Restaurant. All students taking Salsa class at the Big Red Barn receive a 10% dinner discount, good for the entire bill, on Wednesdays. Enjoy DJd Latin dance music, extra instruction, classy ambience, outdoor patio and fabulous menu.
Join Salsa at Agava Facebook Event and invite your friends!

Policies
Class size limit: 40. Partners rotate. Rotation not required for couples. Gender free: each student is free to learn the lead or follow role. New students register for Beginner 1. Higher levels for continuing students who have completed Beginner 1 or have instructor permission.

Cost
Non-students: $70 for series, $130 per couple, $15 drop-in.
Students: $60 for series, $110 per couple, $13 drop-in.
Guarantee your place and save by registering for whole series. Discounts: ~$20 on series, $10 more for students, $10 more per couple ($5 each partner), $5 more for continuing students. Multiple discounts apply.
Register Now

Directions: use Online Campus Map or Google Map.
Instructor: Michael Luis Ristorucci
Questions? Email instructor