Caliente Ballroom
Ballroom, Latin & swing classes in Mt Pleasant. Founder trained in Armenia, n…
A ballroom dance studio offering instruction in American and International style dances including Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha Cha, Rumba, and Swing.
Photo: Caliente Ballroom via Google
Before your first class
No prior experience required; classes are designed for all ages and skill levels, with instructors guiding you through fundamentals at a comfortable pace.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.
Comfortable clothing that allows free movement, and shoes with smooth soles that stay securely on your feet.
19 parking spaces including 1 handicapped space; additional parking behind the building.
About this studio
Caliente Ballroom opened in November 2019 under founder and lead instructor Artur Malakyan, a lifelong dancer and international competitor from Yerevan, Armenia who moved to Charleston a decade prior. The studio recently celebrated its grand opening in a brand-new 4,200 sq. ft. facility at 1116 Graddick Road, featuring 2,700 sq. ft. of premium beech wood floors imported from Denmark. The floating wood dance floor—made with 12-foot-long boards—reduces joint impact and creates a responsive surface designed for performance. The space includes vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, and expansive dance mirrors.
You can take group classes or private lessons across nine dance styles: Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Cha Cha, Rumba, Salsa, Bachata, West Coast Swing, and East Coast Swing. Artur choreographs all routines for the studio's annual showcases. Private lessons are tailored to your goals and skill level; the studio also offers wedding dance choreography, competitive training for serious dancers, and workshops. No prior experience is required—classes are designed for all skill levels and ages.
Group classes are complemented by monthly Friday evening socials, which include a 30-minute instructional lesson followed by 2 hours of social dancing across all ballroom styles. Socials cost $15 per person (payable online or at the door) and are designed for ages 14 and older; those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The studio does not serve alcohol but permits you to bring your own.
The teaching team includes Artur Malakyan (lead instructor), Hidee Jenkins, James Jiang, Olena Corrigan, and Steve Edwards, who is a World Champion & Master Instructor in West Coast Swing and Night Club Two. Students report the studio is not a franchise and free from pressure to buy costly lessons. One long-term student danced with Artur for seven years starting at age 60 with no prior experience; within three months she had learned basic Waltz, Salsa, Cha Cha, and Foxtrot, and now performs at showcases. Another began with little skill and now feels confident on the dance floor after weekly private lessons that provide both exercise and mental challenge.
What to expect
Your first visit
Group classes and private lessons accommodate all skill levels in a supportive, social environment. You may need a partner for some group classes, but many students attend solo; the studio rotates partners when appropriate. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes with smooth soles; ballroom dance shoes are optional at first.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Artur Malakyan is the founder, lead instructor, and choreographer, trained in performing arts with international competition experience. Steve Edwards is a World Champion & Master Instructor in West Coast Swing and Night Club Two. The team also includes Hidee Jenkins, James Jiang, and Olena Corrigan.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
No prior experience required; classes are designed for all ages and skill levels, with instructors guiding you through fundamentals at a comfortable pace.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
Dress code
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.
What to bring
Comfortable clothing that allows free movement, and shoes with smooth soles that stay securely on your feet. Ballroom dance shoes may be recommended as you progress.
Studio history
Founded in November 2019 by Artur Malakyan, a performer and international competitor from Yerevan, Armenia. The studio recently opened its brand-new facility in March 2026, marking a major expansion with a state-of-the-art 4,200 sq. ft. space.
Styles offered
15 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Amenities
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Caliente Ballroomhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Caliente Ballroom, 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 Caliente Ballroom
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Caliente Ballroom teach?
Caliente Ballroom teaches Ballroom, Latin, Smooth, Rhythm, Waltz, Foxtrot and 9 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Caliente Ballroom located?
Caliente Ballroom is located in Mt Pleasant, SC. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Caliente Ballroom offer private lessons?
Contact Caliente Ballroom directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Caliente Ballroom teach kids and adults?
Caliente Ballroom 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 Caliente Ballroom?
The fastest path is to visit Caliente Ballroom 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 Caliente Ballroom?
19 parking spaces including 1 handicapped space; additional parking behind the building.