What do I wear to class?
Wear something comfortable and easy to move in! For our dance classes, people wear exercise clothes (e.g., shorts, tights), jeans and tops, and dresses/skirts that allow for leg movement. As for shoes, anything that will stay on your foot (e.g., an enclosed shoe or one with straps) and has a sole that will allow you to turn/spin is preferable. Dance shoes are not necessary unless you would like to try these later on - for more information, contact us or talk to your instructors.
For our Stretch class, exercise clothes are recommended. We tend to stretch without shoes, so socks and bare feet are fine.
For our Zumba class, exercise clothes and sneakers are recommended.
What happens in a dance class?
Our partner dance classes (Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba) usually start with a warm-up. Some styles will also work on “shines”, which are solo steps that emphasise arm and footwork technique. Our instructors will then walk you through partner dancing moves and concepts, with and without music. We rotate partners frequently. There are lots of opportunities to ask questions and practice dancing throughout the lesson. At the end of the class, the instructors will demonstrate what you’ve learned, which you can record in order to practice at home (please don’t post this on social media).
Our Latin Fusion classes are danced solo. They also start with a warm-up, then the instructor breaks down the choreography which is progressively learned over the 6-week course. There is also an opportunity to film the instructor at the end in order to practice at home. During the last lesson of the term, you have the chance to invite friends/family to watch what you’ve learned. At times we have the opportunity to perform our routine to a wider audience (e.g., at Bailar’s end of term party), and participating is completely optional.
What do I bring?
A drink bottle, phone for recording, towel if needed, and a willingness to learn and have fun!
For Stretch class, bring a drink bottle and yoga mat. Blocks and other stretching equipment are provided, but you are free to bring your own.
I can't dance at all - are these dance classes for me?
Absolutely! Our beginner courses are specifically made for people with no previous dance experience. We carefully go through the basics that you need to know. You also have the opportunity to ask questions during class if you ever get stuck.
For those who might be shy about stepping into our studio, you can check out our Bailar Online classes to see what our classes are like.
Do I need a partner for Salsa, Bachata or Kizomba classes?
No, you don’t - in fact, most of our students attend by themselves. Where possible, our instructors and assistants help make up numbers so that we have equal numbers of leaders and followers. We also rotate partners frequently to ensure that everyone has the chance to dance with other people.
I can't attend a class in my 6-week course - can I get a refund?
Unfortunately, we can’t refund non-attendance for any reason if you’ve paid for a course. However, you can make up those missed classes by attending any of our other classes in our timetable. If you anticipate that you’ll miss classes, we recommend our Casual Classes and Passes which offer more flexibility.
Please see our Refunds and Cancellations Policy for more details
How can I practise what I've learnt in class?
At Bailar, we strongly recommend social dancing as a way to practice what you’ve learned! We often run end of term parties where we put on music and dance, and this is a fun way to learn in a safe, familiar space.
It’s easier to go to socials when you know other classmates are going, so request to join our private Facebook group Salsa, Bachata & Kizomba with Bailar Productions where we post social dancing events and other gatherings.
The Where to dance Salsa Bchata Kizomba tonight in Perth Facebook group is good to follow if you want to see what socials, workshops, and classes are happening around town.
How do I know which level I'm in if I have some dance experience?
Every dance school is different, so please contact us to determine the best fit. Our 1-week trial (first week of the term only) may be useful if you would like to try several levels and see what feels right for you.