FAQs
Do I need to bring a partner?
Partners are not required for classes at DVS. Our classes cater to both students who sign up on their own, as well as students who sign up with a partner. Classes operate a partner rotating system. Every few minutes students get to dance with a new partner, to ensure all students get to dance with one another.
If you have your own partner and do not wish to rotate partners, kindly let the next person in rotation know your staying together and to bypass you for the next available partner.
Which classes are for beginners?
Beginner-friendly classes are marked with a green dot on the schedule. Check the legend for level details—green corresponds to Beginner and All Levels. You can start with classes like Salsa 1, Bachata 1, or Move & Groove.
Are classes listed as 1.5 suitable for beginners?
No, classes labeled as 1.5 are not suitable for absolute beginners. These classes are designed for experienced Salsa or Bachata dancers who want to explore other dance forms that build on foundational skills acquired in Salsa and Bachata classes. 1.5 classes progress at an accelerated pace and require prior experience in Salsa or Bachata.
What is the New Student Deal?
All first-time students at Dance Vancouver—regardless of experience level—are eligible for 2 weeks of unlimited classes at their level and below.
If you are a complete beginner, you can join all Level 1 and “All Levels” classes during this period.
If you request an assessment and are placed at a specific level (for example, Salsa 2 and Bachata 2), you may attend any classes at that level and any lower levels throughout your 2-week trial.
When can I start taking classes at DVS?
Start right away! Join anytime. No need to wait. See our Schedule for your class times. Note: classes other than level 1 require a free level assessment to join. Book your free Assessment Here.
What's best for me?
New Student Deal: This is best for any students new to DVSregardless of experience level. Take unlimited classes your level and below for your first first 2 weeks.
Class Passes: This is best for returning students who want the flexibility of what classes to attend and when, without the same commitment as our Membership options.
Memberships: This is best for returning students who want to take more than 2 classes regularly. This allows you to dance more and spend less while feeding your dance addiction.
Drop-ins: This is best for students who can only attend a single class or up to three classes total. Please note this option is more expensive per class than other options, and does not apply toward future purchases (NSD, Class Passes, or Memberships).
What do I wear to class?
We recommend comfortable athletic wear that allows for movement and breathability, as many of our classes are designed to get you sweating—especially Body Movement, Shines, Afro Cuban, Rumba, and Hip Hop.
For partner classes, wear whatever you feel most comfortable in. Most students choose casual streetwear or athletic clothing, and some prefer to dress up depending on their style.
What type of shoes should I wear?
New students do not need dance shoes—most clean, stable, non-marking shoes such as dress shoes or fitted sneakers will work. Choose footwear that allows you to move comfortably and does not grip the floor. Stilettos are not recommended.
By Salsa 3 and above, many students choose to invest in proper dance shoes (typically suede-soled) to improve movement and reduce joint strain.
If you’re ready to purchase dance shoes, you can contact Scarlet, our local distributor for high-quality and stylish “Mi Swing” dance shoes from Mexico.
I sweat a lot. What should I do / How can I prepare for class?
Partner dancing involves close contact, so good personal hygiene and preparation go a long way in making the experience enjoyable for everyone.
If you tend to sweat more, please be considerate of your partners by bringing a small towel to wipe down between songs and, if needed, an extra shirt to change into during class.
We also recommend arriving fresh by showering beforehand, wearing clean clothes, and using deodorant. Breath mints or gum are also encouraged to help keep interactions comfortable for your partners.
Can I pay a drop-in fee to your classes?
Yes, drop-ins are welcome whenever space allows. Drop-in classes are $25 + tax and are only available for purchase in person at the studio (not online).
Classes are first come, first served, so we recommend arriving 10–15 minutes early to secure your spot. Creating an account with your information in advance will also help speed up the check-in process.
How many times should I take each level?
Progression through levels varies from person to person depending on consistency, practice, and individual learning pace. While some students may move through Level 1 in approximately 3 months, this is only a general guideline and not a requirement.
The key to progressing is ensuring your practice and participation outside of class match what you’re learning in class. We strongly encourage students to attend our weekly Friday night Salsa and Bachata social, 'La Noche Pa’ Gozar', as it provides a fun and supportive environment to practice.
When you feel ready to advance, you can speak with your instructor or book a free assessment at any time.
Why is the studio sometimes closed for a few days?
Although our classes are not structured in fixed course cycles, we typically run programming on a 4-week monthly schedule. On occasion, a month may include a 5th occurrence of a regularly scheduled class day (for example, an extra Monday, or Saturday). In these cases, the studio may close for a short break or to allow space for workshops and special events.
Our Ongoing and Annual memberships are designed around a monthly cycle and are not affected by these occasional closures, as we consistently aim to deliver a full month of classes.
For time-based plans such as the New Student Deal, Class Passes, and 1-Month Unlimited memberships, we offer extensions to account for any days the studio is closed during the active period. These extensions are applied immediately at the end of the original term or upon reopening, whichever comes first.