Nela Dance LLC

Nela Dance LLC, established in August 2020, teaches Salsa and Bachata at Element Gym on Selby Avenue in St Paul. The studio is run by Nela Menéndez, originally from Mendoza, Argentina, who began dancing at age 8, exploring ballet, folklore, and traditional Argentinian rhythms before discovering Salsa at 13 and focusing on Bachata by 18. She has competed in numerous prestigious dance competitions across Argentina and the U.S., earning multiple first- and second-place awards, trained with world champion dancers, and performed at Salsa and Bachata congresses.

Classes run every month with progressive new steps introduced throughout each month. Group classes are offered at Fundamentals, Intermediate, and Master levels, both in-person and via Zoom. With a monthly pass you get access to class videos to practice between sessions. Classes are assigned to the week of purchase and start the first week of each month—register at least one week in advance to secure your spot.

Beyond group classes, Nela Dance offers private lessons in Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, and Cumbia. The studio runs performing teams that learn choreographies for local events, congresses, festivals, and weekenders, welcoming all levels from zero to intermediate and advanced. Company special classes are tailored for organisations looking to engage employees or clients and promote active company culture.

Nela's wider work includes wedding and quinceañera choreography services, corporate dance programs, and performance teams for events. She co-founded NV Entertainment, which organised Latin dance socials and created the Hispanic Heritage Festival 2024, bringing together world champion dancers and celebrating Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, and more. She has taught at universities across the U.S. and partners with various organisations to bring dance to diverse audiences. The studio operates with a culture rooted in happiness and respect, encouraging a "Good Energies Only" ethos where you can leave the stresses of daily life behind during your dance time.

Classes start the first week of each month with new steps taught throughout. You can try one or two classes to experience both Salsa and Bachata. Wear comfortable activewear or dancewear that allows you to stretch and move freely; dance heels or flats are recommended, and street shoes should be avoided to keep floors clean.

Nela Menéndez, originally from Mendoza, Argentina, leads the studio. She began dancing at age 8 and discovered Salsa at 13, with Bachata becoming her focus by 18. She has competed in prestigious dance competitions across Argentina and the U.S., earning multiple first- and second-place awards, trained with world champion dancers, and performed at Salsa and Bachata congresses.

Fundamentals classes welcome you to start dancing from scratch; you can also begin private lessons at your own pace.