Acacia Latin Dance Company
Salsa On2 and Bachata in Hartford—syllabus-driven instruction for all levels
A Latin dance studio specializing in Salsa, Bachata, and other Latin social dances.
Photo: Acacia Latin Dance Company via Google
Before your first class
No experience needed; Salsa 101 is an 8-week beginner course, and the studio welcomes solo dancers with partner rotation in all classes.
Comfortable clothes you can move in; dance shoes strongly recommended for safety and technique.
Comfortable clothes you can move in.
Parking is first-come, first-served in the lot at Parkville Sounds; street parking is available nearby.
About this studio
Acacia Latin Dance Company began with one salsa class and a mission to build community. Founder and Director Christien Olivera moved to Hartford in 2022 and saw an opportunity to energise the local dance scene. What started as a single class has grown into a full studio with performance teams, youth programmes, and regular socials. The company is now housed at Parkville Sounds, a larger creative space that allows them to offer more classes and host vibrant events.
The studio teaches primarily Salsa On2 and Bachata using a syllabus-based approach. Rather than focusing on steps alone, classes emphasise understanding the music, concepts, rhythm, and movement. Adult classes are structured by skill level—Salsa 101 for beginners, intermediate and advanced levels for experienced dancers—while Bachata is offered as an open-level course welcoming dancers of all experience levels. The teaching method is concept-driven, breaking down rhythm, timing, footwork, styling, and partner connection so dancers can internalise the dance and perform with confidence.
Acacia runs a youth programme for dancers aged 8–11 and teen classes for ages 12–17, both led by instructors including Shirley Sullivan. The studio's performance teams, led by Artistic Director Christien Olivera and team coach Mike Garcia, develop technique, artistry, teamwork, discipline, and stage presence. These teams represent Acacia at community events, cultural festivals, and showcases throughout the region.
Beyond technique, Acacia prioritises community and culture. The studio hosts socials and workshops including El Jangueo, described as Acacia's premier salsa social bringing together top dancers, live bands, and performances to unite the salsa scenes of New England and the Tri-State area. El Domingueo, their Sunday salsa social, offers good music and real connection for dancers across the region. The studio also offers private lessons, choreography, and entertainment for weddings, parties, and corporate events. Students of all levels are welcome—no experience or partner is required, and the studio rotates partners in class so solo students can practise with different people.
What to expect
Your first visit
Classes are structured and concept-focused, emphasising musicality and partner connection rather than just following steps. You'll work with rotating partners, and the studio welcomes complete beginners alongside advanced dancers. The space is described by students as having a vintage, authentic aesthetic that feels comfortable and relaxed.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Christien D. Olivera is founder, director and CEO, leading the studio's salsa instruction and serving as artistic director for performance teams. Mike Garcia is an instructor and team coach. Shirley Sullivan teaches the youth programme and provides administrative support.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
No experience needed; Salsa 101 is an 8-week beginner course, and the studio welcomes solo dancers with partner rotation in all classes.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
Dress code
Comfortable clothes you can move in; dance shoes strongly recommended for safety and technique.
What to bring
Comfortable clothes you can move in. Dance shoes are strongly recommended for safety and technique; light sneakers are acceptable in Salsa 101 only. Bring a towel if you perspire heavily.
Studio history
Christien Olivera moved to Hartford in 2022 and started one salsa class to bring energy to the local dance scene. The studio grew organically as more dancers joined, performance teams formed, and sold-out events demonstrated community hunger for Latin dance. Acacia is now housed at Parkville Sounds, a larger space that allows the studio to expand its offerings and community building.
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Amenities
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Acacia Latin Dance Companyhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Acacia Latin Dance Company, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about Acacia Latin Dance Company
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Acacia Latin Dance Company teach?
Acacia Latin Dance Company teaches Latin, Salsa, Bachata, Merengue. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Acacia Latin Dance Company located?
Acacia Latin Dance Company is located in Hartford, CT. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Acacia Latin Dance Company offer private lessons?
Contact Acacia Latin Dance Company directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Acacia Latin Dance Company teach kids and adults?
Acacia Latin Dance Company welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at Acacia Latin Dance Company?
The fastest path is to visit Acacia Latin Dance Company via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.
Is there parking at Acacia Latin Dance Company?
Parking is first-come, first-served in the lot at Parkville Sounds; street parking is available nearby. Arrive early to allow time to park and settle before class.