Columbus Latin Dance Academy
Salsa and Bachata classes for all levels, plus monthly socials and Sabor Sundays
A Latin dance studio specializing in Salsa, Bachata, and other Latin social dances.
Photo: Laura Daniela Quiceno via Google
Before your first class
Previous dance experience is not required for Beginner Level 1 classes; new students are suggested to start at the beginning of a 4-week cycle.
No dress code; dress comfortably in clothes you can move and dance in.
Dress comfortably and lightly in clothes you can move and dance in.
4-class package $99 (1 hour per week Salsa or Bachata over 4-week cycle); 8-class package $140 (2 hours per week Salsa and Bachata over 4-week cycle).
About this studio
Columbus Latin Dance Academy is a Latin dance school on Grandview Avenue run by co-founders Marcella Mondesir and Laura Quiceno. Their mission centres on culture and community: they aim to create "an authentic latin dance experience" where dancers find "a second family through dance".
The academy teaches Salsa and Bachata at two levels each. Salsa Level 1 covers strong fundamentals, basic footwork, and partner connection in a welcoming setting. Salsa Level 2 strengthens your foundation with smoother transitions and new turn patterns, improving timing, flow, and confidence. Bachata Level 1 teaches essential steps, rhythm, and partner connection from the ground up. Bachata Level 2 expands patterns, refines technique, and develops musicality and smoother movement. Classes focus on learning steps alongside understanding the music itself: timing, rhythm, body movement, and partner connection so you can feel comfortable and expressive on the dance floor.
Private lessons are available for both styles. Each private lesson is designed to dive deeper into technique details, identify areas for improvement, and focus on adjustments that create meaningful change. The academy recommends combining private lessons with group classes for the best results. You can schedule lessons on your own time, learn at your own pace, and work toward a personalised goal plan.
The teaching team includes co-founders Marcella Mondesir and Laura Quiceno as head instructors, alongside Eric Vermillion, Jen Torres, Michael White, Johan Hernandez, and Jessica Metcalf.
Beyond classes, the academy runs a monthly studio social—an immersive night of salsa, bachata, and connection with great music and vibrant vibes. They also host Sabor Sundays at Brothers Drake Meadery every second Sunday, featuring social dancing to all-vinyl salsa and bachata with DJ Chris from Cap City Salsa. Classes operate in 4-week cycles, and an open house was scheduled for 31 July.
What to expect
Your first visit
Classes are 1 hour per week. You'll rotate frequently with partners so everyone gets ample practice time. Pre-registration online is required—classes fill up quickly and showing up without a reservation does not guarantee a spot. No partner is necessary; no previous dance experience is required for Beginner Level 1 classes.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Co-founders Marcella Mondesir and Laura Quiceno lead the studio as head instructors. The teaching team includes Eric Vermillion, Jen Torres, Michael White, Johan Hernandez, Jessica Metcalf, and Emmanuel Figueroa.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Previous dance experience is not required for Beginner Level 1 classes; new students are suggested to start at the beginning of a 4-week cycle.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
Dress code
No dress code; dress comfortably in clothes you can move and dance in.
What to bring
Dress comfortably and lightly in clothes you can move and dance in. Beginners can wear street shoes or dress shoes with ankle straps and medium-height heels, flat-bottom shoes, or regular dancing shoes. Avoid shoes with thick rubber soles such as sneakers, clogs, boots, or flip-flops. No partner is necessary.
Styles offered
8 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Columbus Latin Dance Academyhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Columbus Latin Dance Academy, 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 Columbus Latin Dance Academy
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Columbus Latin Dance Academy teach?
Columbus Latin Dance Academy teaches Latin, Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Salsa Level 1, Salsa Level 2 and 2 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Columbus Latin Dance Academy located?
Columbus Latin Dance Academy is located in Columbus, OH. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Columbus Latin Dance Academy offer private lessons?
Contact Columbus Latin Dance Academy directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Columbus Latin Dance Academy teach kids and adults?
Columbus Latin Dance Academy 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 Columbus Latin Dance Academy?
The fastest path is to visit Columbus Latin Dance Academy via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.