By Annabel Bienfait, Community Editor
This month, we interviewed Salsa Society, who provide weekly Latin American dance classes for students and staff at the University of Bristol. Open to dancers of all levels and experience, Salsa Society is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming space where students can express themselves freely and develop their dance technique. Here's what the society themselves told us about their classes and performances this year:
Can you give our readers a brief description of what Salsa Society is all about?
We are a lively and welcoming society passionate about Latin dance and music! Salsa Society offers weekly Salsa and Bachata classes for all levels. This means that whether you’re stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or are a seasoned dancer already, we are waiting for you to join!
What do you love most about Salsa Society classes?
More than just learning to dance, salsa has brought me a huge sense of community, acceptance and confidence. Before joining, I used to be afraid of dancing or performing in front of people. Even just talking to strangers felt intimidating.
Because our classes rotate partners every minute or so, you quickly get used to talking to and connecting with everyone in the room. It really helps develop social skills and meet people you might never have spoken to otherwise. Even social dancing helps build confidence in asking strangers to dance, which can be nerve-racking at first (a bit like “rejection therapy”!).
I view salsa as a space that teaches acceptance. You dance with people of all ages, backgrounds, abilities and learn to adapt to different styles, realising that not every move works the same way with every partner.
You teach regular Salsa and Bachata classes. Could you explain the difference between the two, and who might enjoy which style?
Both Salsa and Bachata are partner dances, so our lessons focus mainly on partner work and connection.
- Salsa is fast-paced, upbeat and full of spins, turns and lively percussive rhythms. It’s perfect for anyone who loves energetic music and a vibrant, animated atmosphere. Salsa can be danced in different ways, each with its own flair, such as Cuban, crossbody or Cali styles. It is also common to dance salsa solo, especially during shines or warm-ups, which makes it great for developing individual style and confidence.
- Bachata, on the other hand, has a smoother and more relaxed feel, which can make it easier to pick up for completely new dancers. We mainly teach Bachata moderna, which blends the playful footwork of traditional Dominican bachata with the smooth, flowing movements of sensual style bachata. It’s fun, expressive and very musical. It lets dancers really connect with both the music and their partners.
What is the typical format of a Salsa/Bachata class?
Both Salsa and Bachata classes follow a similar structure and last about an hour. We start with a short warm-up, followed by some shines (solo steps) to help build rhythm and confidence. The rest of the class focuses on partner-work. Leads and followers pair up, learn a short routine and rotate partners every minute or so (so everyone gets to dance with different people!). The final part is all about dancing the full routine to music and having fun with it. If time allows, we put on a few extra songs for some relaxed social dancing.
What are the competition teams? Who can audition and what should members expect from salsa competitions this year?
This year we’re planning to have two competition teams (one for Salsa and one for Bachata). Auditions usually last around two hours, where dancers learn and perform a short routine. The salsa routine is aimed at improvers and above, while bachata is more beginner friendly.
It’s a really encouraging environment where we focus more on performance, energy, and enjoyment rather than perfect technique. Many members develop their skills after joining the team, so don’t be intimidated! Just come, give it your best and have fun!
The teams do require commitment, with weekly two-hour rehearsals and some extra polishing sessions before competitions. Additionally, there are some costs, which cover teaching, room bookings, costumes, and travelling costs for performances outside of Bristol. All these are subsidised as much as possible by the society and bursaries are available for anyone who needs further financial support.
It’s a challenging but unforgettable experience. You’ll grow fast, travel around, make great friends, and represent the society at competitions across the UK!
Do you have any favourite memories of classes or performances with Salsa Society?
One of my favourite memories has to be our Halloween class last year. Seeing everyone dressed up and dancing in costume was hilarious. We even had a little costume competition, with prizes for the best looks!
Being part of the performance team also brought so many great memories. I’ll never forget the early morning rehearsals, the last-minute practices and going for coffee or to the pub afterwards. All those moments are what really brought us together.
By the end of the year, we organised an impromptu trip to a Latin dance festival in Spain. Spending those days together dancing everywhere (even on the beach during sunset!) was truly the perfect way to celebrate everything we’d shared that year.
What's on?
Salsa Society run beginner and improver-level classes, so there's truly a place for everyone to get involved. The vibe is always friendly, supportive (everyone is there to learn!)
Twice a month, they host Saturday Specials, exploring other dance styles such as samba, tango, forró, cha-cha, kizomba. These sessions usually end with an hour of social dancing, which is a great chance to practise your moves, connect with others and enjoy the music.
Key Info:
Salsa: Every Wednesday in the Carpenter Room, Richmond Building
Beginners @ 19:00-20:00
Improvers @ 20:00-21:00
£3.50 for members, £5 for non-members
Bachata: Every Thursday in Studio 3, Indoor Sports Centre
Beginners @ 18:00-19:00
Improvers @ 19:00-20:00
£3.50 for members, £5 for non-members
Book classes online here.
Membership Cost: £20 for the year
Gives access to discounted weekly class tickets, and discounted entre to socials and events
Salsa Fiesta: The biggest event of the year! Held every year in TB2, it's a formal ball with catering, dance workshops, and performances from our teams and special guests.
Contact:
Instagram: @ubsalsasoc
Email: ubsalsasoc@gmail.com
Featured image: Salsa Society
