Latin Look dance studio

Latin Look was founded in 1992 and has grown into one of Pretoria's most successful competitive and social dance studios. The studio specializes in competitive Latin American and ballroom dancing alongside quality social dancing. Studio owner Sonja Stanford is an accomplished dancer and choreographer who competed in the first 'Strictly Come Dancing' series in South Africa with James Dalton and the Special Christmas Edition with Marc Lottering in 2006. In her final competitive year, she won the Gauteng Championships and came second at the South African Championships for Professional Ballroom. She has also served as an adjudicator for 'Die Laaste Wals' in 2009 and 2010.

The studio runs at least five social events per year at the Bella Garden Venue and teaches a wide range of dances. Social lessons cover Boogie Two Step, Box Rumba, Cha-cha, Samba, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Tango, Rhythm Foxtrot, Slow Waltz, Mambo, Salsa, Merengue, Argentine Tango, Bolero, Bachata, Sokkie, Lang Arm, and Boere Waltz. For those pursuing competitive dancing, the studio offers training in Cha-cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, Jive, Waltz, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, and Quickstep. Beginners and amateurs are welcomed into the competitive programme.

Beyond social and competitive dancing, Latin Look offers choreographed routines for matric dance groups, family groups, and corporate functions. Wedding services include first dance lessons, father-daughter dances, mother-son dances, and bridal party group choreography. The studio can also provide entertainment for wedding guests through professional dance shows and workshops.

Exercise classes include Fitty Fitness, a Latin fitness class, and Burlesque class, both led by professional dance teachers who emphasise correct technique to prevent injury. The Bella Garden Venue hosts events for up to 50 people and accommodates small functions, outdoor events, baby showers, and intimate family celebrations. The studio also rents dance attire for ladies, gentlemen, and children, and sells dance shoes and heel protectors.

First lessons are free. Basic training runs one hour weekly at the Val-de-Grace studio (Mondays to Saturdays, with Tuesday also at Garsfontein). The studio describes its atmosphere as relaxed and homely but professional, with passionate, well-trained teachers who care for each student individually.

Sonja Stanford, the studio owner, is an experienced competitive dancer and choreographer. The studio employs well-trained teachers, many of whom present the specialist exercise classes.

No partner required, all ages welcome; beginners and amateurs are actively encouraged to join competitive dancing.