You do not need a partner
You dance with several people during class, so it is fine to come alone or with someone.
Welcome to Contigo
New here? How to get started
Never danced Cuban salsa or bachata before? We will ease you in from the very first step. Danced before but new to us? You are just as welcome. Here are the main things you need to know before your first class.
What to expect
Good to know before your first class
No experience needed
The beginner courses start from scratch. We explain every step calmly and clearly.
Courses run as fixed series
Each course series runs for 7 weeks. You stay with the same class and get to know the others.
A welcoming environment
It is easy to join in here, and there is room for everyone. It is fine to put a foot wrong, and we learn together. On the beginner courses we also help you find your way into the social dance scene outside class.
Level guide
Which level is right for me?
Not sure which level suits you? Use the descriptions below, or get in touch and we will help you find the right one. You can also read more about Cuban salsa, the dance everything at Contigo builds on.
- Beginner
Never danced before? This is where everyone starts. We go through the basic steps at a calm pace.
- Practiced
You are starting to feel comfortable with the basic steps and ready for more of the basic moves and better flow.
- Improver
You are growing more confident on the dance floor and starting to work on musicality and styling.
- Intermediate
You have the fundamentals down and want to work on more complex moves, combinations, partner work and your own expression.
- Advanced
You have solid experience and want to work more on improvisation, technique and details.
- Open level
All levels dance together, and everyone gets something to work on, from brand-new beginner to experienced dancer.
Practical
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes you can move in, and indoor shoes that fit well, with a smooth, light-coloured sole that does not mark the floor and makes it easy to turn. Bring a water bottle if you like.
We have a changing room where you can leave your things. There is also a lounge area where people often sit for a while before and between classes.
Read all the house rules
FAQ
Common questions from new dancers
Do I need rhythm to dance salsa?
If you are asking, you are in good company. Rhythm is something you learn, not something you need in advance. The instructors take you through it, step by step.
Can I try a salsa course before signing up?
We regularly hold open weeks and trial classes. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, or get in touch, and we will let you know when you can come and try.
Can I start in the middle of a course series?
That often works out fine. Send us an email and we will sort something out.
Is there anything social outside class?
Yes. On the Beginner and Practiced levels we usually meet up twice during the course series: an informal evening a few weeks into the course, and a trip together to one of the big social dance nights in Oslo. The point is to help you take the step out into the social dance scene, and it is entirely optional. From Improver level up, most people are already out dancing, and we meet at social nights and events throughout the year.
Anything I should know before I come?
Nothing complicated, just common courtesy: arrive in good time, bring clean clothes and keep fresh since we dance close together, and respect each other’s boundaries. See the house rules for the full list.
Do you offer private salsa lessons?
Yes, private lessons are possible. Email us with a few words about what you want to work on, and we will take it from there.