Viva Dance Studio

Viva Dance Studio is Cleveland's Ballroom and Latin partner dance studio, located in the Arts District. The studio specialises in Ballroom and Latin dance for weddings, dance parties, social events, bar and bat mitzvahs, quinceañeras, and competitions. They blend authentic technique with contemporary social style.

Classes span Salsa, Mambo, Bachata, Kizomba Fusion, Zouk, Argentine Tango, and West Coast Swing. Beyond partner dances, they offer high-energy non-partnered classes like Heels and Stretch & Flexibility. Group classes run on 4-week cycles, with most classes structured progressively so each week builds on the previous one. New students can join Week 1 or 2 if they meet level requirements; Weeks 3 and 4 require instructor approval. A 4-week cycle costs $80, or drop in for a single class at $25. They also offer Build-Your-Own group classes for groups of 4–8 people at $25 per person per hour, with a 20% discount when you pre-pay for four sessions.

Private lessons are 45 minutes long, one-on-one and customised. Prices range from $80 to $95 per session depending on the package, and the same rate applies to both singles and couples. Lessons are available in person at the studio or virtually over Zoom.

The studio runs a strong social calendar. Sizzling Salsa social happens every Thursday from 9 PM to midnight. Bachata Vibras Social is a new monthly event with a guest instructor and DJ. They also host competitions and showcase events throughout the year, and train teams and individuals who compete in regional and national ballroom competitions. Studio space is available for private rentals including parties, corporate events, and workshops.

One customer review sums it up: "A wonderful and exotic establishment to experience dance for your first or thousandth time." The studio's mission is to offer superior instruction and events that foster human connection and personal discovery in a community-centred space.

Classes rotate partners so everyone practises with others, though you can stay with your own partner if you attend as a couple. Non-rubber-soled shoes or dance-specific shoes are recommended for easier floor movement. Walk-ins are welcome for some classes, but checking availability in advance is recommended. After group classes, you can practice your moves and meet new dance friends at their lively dance parties.

The studio is co-owned and led by Parker Amsel, Rebecca Sweet, and Heriberto Perez, all Master Instructors. The teaching staff includes specialists across all styles: Kaitie Fox (Bachata, Body Movement, Fusion), Irina Khrychikova (Social Latin, Ballroom), Nancy Xu (Mambo, Salsa, Bachata, Zouk), Thomas Kindt (Ballroom, Wedding Choreography), Sophie Colette Cavanaugh and Andrew Minor (Argentine Tango), Y Chan (Zouk, West Coast Swing, Taichi), Evan Schreiber, Katie Fallon, and Anna Hamre (West Coast Swing), and Julissa Connelly (Zouk). Arland Zatania Lojo directs the dance teams.

Absolutely—beginner-friendly classes are designed to help you build confidence and learn the basics of dance, regardless of experience level.