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, simply let the instructors know and we will happily accommodate you.
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 considered experienced beginner level. They are not suitable for absolute beginners, but they are also not intermediate or advanced. These classes are designed for students who already have some foundational Salsa or Bachata experience and are ready to build on those basics at a slightly faster pace.
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. The deal is available for both singles and couples (lead and follow dance partners).
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?
You can join anytime—no need to wait for a new session. Classes are designed so new students can jump in at any point, with each class covering basics while still progressing into new material. Check our Schedule for class times.
Please note: Level 3 and above require a level assessment before joining. You can book your free assessment here.
What's best for me?
New Student Deal: This is best for any students new to DVS regardless of experience level. Take unlimited classes your level and below for your 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).
I see that I can book as a lead or a follow—what’s the difference?
“Lead” and “follow” refer to the two roles in partner dancing. Traditionally, leads are more often men and follows more often women, but anyone can dance either role.
You’re welcome to choose the role you prefer when booking your class.
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.
What happens if the class I bought my Class Pass for isn’t offered during the validity of my plan?
Class passes are designed to be flexible and can be used for any eligible class on our schedule, not a specific class or day. While we do our best to maintain a consistent weekly schedule, our timetable is subject to change from month to month and may vary. The most up-to-date schedule can always be found on our website.
Because of this flexibility, we are unable to offer extensions or credits if a particular class is not running during the validity of a pass. However, your pass can always be used for any other available classes during that time.
If I purchased a plan and will be traveling while it is active, can I pause or extend it?
Only certain memberships are eligible for pauses. The Ongoing Membership allows up to 2 months of pause per calendar year, and the Annual Membership allows up to 3 months of pause per membership period.
All other plans (including Class Passes, the New Student Deal, and 1-Month Unlimited memberships) are not eligible for pauses or extensions due to personal matters or travel.
For Class Passes, we recommend choosing a start date after your trip or planning to use all of your classes during the time you are in town. For the New Student Deal and 1-Month Unlimited memberships, we suggest selecting a start date that will not be affected by your travel plans.
What happens to my plan if I’m sick or injured?
For short-term or mild conditions (such as a cold or headache), we’re generally unable to offer extensions, make-up classes, or credits.
For more serious situations—such as injuries, surgery, or longer illnesses—we’re happy to work with you and can offer an extension, credit, or refund depending on the circumstances.
Medical documentation (such as a doctor’s note or hospital record) is required. You’re welcome to remove any personal or sensitive information that isn’t relevant.
I forgot to select a start date. Can I change it?
No worries—these things happen! A start date is selected at checkout (within 3 months of purchase), and if none is chosen, your plan will begin on the purchase date. You can request one complimentary change, as long as no classes have been attended and the new date is within 3 months of purchase.
Just email us at dancevancouverinfo@gmail.com and we’ll be happy to help.
Additional changes may be subject to a $5 administrative fee.
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 end date or upon reopening, whichever comes first.