Havana Salsa Birmingham

Havana Salsa was established in the UK over 15 years ago to introduce Cuban Salsa and Cuban culture to dancers of all levels. The school is run by Rodolfo and his wife Laura, alongside a team of trained instructors from across the globe. They teach authentic Cuban Salsa — a relaxed, passionate and expressive style derived from the earlier 'Son' dance form, mambo and cha cha cha, which has been danced since the 1950s, originating in Havana, Cuba.

In Birmingham, Havana Salsa runs beginner classes at multiple venues including Walker Memorial Hall, The Red Lion, O'Neills Broad Street, Boldmere Sports & Social Club in Sutton Coldfield, and Moor Pool Hall. All beginner (Level 1) classes start at either 6:15 pm or 7:15 pm depending on venue. Classes are structured as 7-week courses covering rhythm and timing, connection, lead and follow basics, core steps, simple turns and how to move comfortably to Cuban music. The teaching focuses on essential steps, safe partnerwork, and building confidence for social dancing.

Havana Salsa is award-winning and hosts the UK's biggest New Year Latin festival, which runs for three days with 500+ dancers, workshops, live music, international artist performances and social dancing. All levels are welcome, including non-dancers, and no partner is required for the festival.

The school emphasizes structured learning over random combinations. Classes progress through four levels: Level 1 (Beginner), Level 2 (Improver), Level 3 (Intermediate, with four iterations), and Level 4 (Advanced). Beyond classes, Havana Salsa runs regular monthly social parties across the UK where students can practise what they've learned. The company also offers private tuition, corporate workshops, wedding dance choreography, school workshops, and hen party experiences.

Your first class is a gentle but energetic introduction to basic steps, turns, footwork and rhythm. Partners rotate throughout, so you won't be paired with the same person each time — this helps you meet people and learn faster. Classes recap essentials each session, so missing a week doesn't derail your progress. You'll learn real steps you can use on a social dancefloor.

Classes are taught by Havana Salsa-trained instructors led by Rodolfo and Laura. Teachers are renowned for their ability to provide structured, enjoyable classes for people at all learning levels and are described as native instructors who bring authentic Cuban style to their teaching.

Absolute beginners are the focus — no dance experience required, no partner needed, and classes accommodate ages 18–65 starting something new together.