Somos Latin Dance

Somos Latin Dance launched at the end of 2021 as a community built around Latin partner dance. The studio teaches Salsa on 2 (New York Style), Bachata, Merengue, Latin Hustle, and Cha Cha Cha. Classes run Monday to Wednesday evenings at Ripley Grier Studios on the second floor of 305 W 38th Street in Midtown Manhattan. Owner Nancy Bocanegra has over 15 years of teaching and performing experience, with credits including performances with the Eddie Torres Jr. Dancers, halftime shows at Madison Square Garden for the Knicks and Liberty, and dancing alongside Tito Puente Jr. She holds a 200-hour certification as a Vinyasa Yoga instructor and brings mindful movement to her teaching.

The instructional team includes Andrea Ude, who holds a BFA in Dance Studies and brings 30+ years of dance experience spanning ballet, tap, jazz, modern, African styles, and Latin social dance. She co-directs the Latin fusion performance team LFX Dancers. Giuliana Totagiancaspro, a professional dancer and instructor from Buenos Aires with over 14 years of experience, specializes in salsa, jazz, modern, samba, and tango. She was granted an artist visa in 2024 and has performed internationally including at Cancun's Coco Bongo spectacle. Robert Arvidsson brings over 35 years as a dancer and 25+ years as an instructor; ranked Sweden's best ballroom couple with his partner, he represented the country in international competitions and World Cups. Brian Thomas "El Matatan" is an NYC-based instructor and DJ with 10+ years in the scene, co-founder of Swagchata and BachaDura Social Club. Guest instructors include Daniel Raphael, a professional dancer and instructor for over 24 years who has performed and taught in Brazil, Europe, and the United States.

Group classes are structured in four-week cycles and designed for all levels. New students must join during the first two weeks of a cycle, starting in Level 1 (Fundamental) classes where progressions build weekly. The studio emphasizes small class sizes, experienced instruction, and clear advancement paths. Classes follow a progression system, so students new to a style cannot enter fundamental classes after week three. No partner is required—the studio rotates leaders and followers during partner work instruction. The studio philosophy centers on thoughtful, fun instruction that promotes physical and mental well-being while building community.

Private lessons are available weekday and weekend in Midtown, with instructors offering customized programs in Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, and other Latin styles. Wedding choreography and dance preparation is offered, with the studio recommending a 3-6 month lead time before your event. Somos also provides corporate event instruction, performances, and DJ services. Online classes for Salsa, Bachata, and Merengue are available as a monthly subscription service for $4.99/month.

You'll arrive at Ripley Grier Studios on the second floor of 305 W 38th Street and check in at least 10 minutes before class. New students start in Level 1 Fundamental classes during the first two weeks of each four-week cycle, where you'll learn foundational steps in your chosen style with an experienced instructor. Small class sizes mean personal attention as you build basics and musicality alongside others learning for the first time—no partner needed.

Nancy Bocanegra (owner) has 15+ years teaching and performing experience including Madison Square Garden appearances and work with the Eddie Torres Jr. Dancers. Andrea Ude holds a BFA in Dance Studies and brings 30+ years of dance experience. Giuliana Totagiancaspro, from Buenos Aires, has 14+ years of professional instruction and performance experience across multiple styles. Robert Arvidsson is a 35+ year dancer and 25+ year instructor ranked as Sweden's best ballroom couple; he's ISTD certified in International Ballroom Latin. Brian Thomas "El Matatan" is an NYC instructor and DJ with 10+ years experience and co-founder of Swagchata.

New students start in Level 1 Fundamental classes during the first two weeks of each cycle; no partner is required and the studio rotates followers and leaders during partner work instruction.