Viva Social Dance Studio: KC's Premier Salsa/Latin Dance School

Viva Social Dance Studio is a Latin dance school in Shawnee, Kansas, offering group classes and private lessons in Salsa, Bachata, Reggaeton, Argentine Tango, and Zumba. The studio is owned by Josh Hernandez, who originally trained in American Rhythm, International Latin, Swing, Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, and Zouk. Originally from Puerto Rico and raised in New York City, Josh has been a cornerstone of Kansas City's dance community for nearly 20 years, teaching, competing, and performing at events like Dancing With The Stars – Kansas City.

Classes are structured by level across multiple styles. Salsa and Bachata each have three levels: Level 1 teaches foundational footwork, cross-body leads, and basic turns; Level 2 develops partner connection and dynamic patterns; Level 3 focuses on advanced footwork, complex turns, styling, and musicality. Reggaeton offers Level 1 (foundational steps and body control) and Level 2 (higher-energy combinations and performance quality). Argentine Tango Level 1 introduces the tango walk, posture, embrace, and basic patterns. The studio also offers Zumba classes. All group classes run in 4-week cycles and are 1.5 hours long. The approach goes beyond step-counting: instructors teach students to feel the rhythm and interpret it into steps and partner-work.

Group classes are taught by experienced instructors including Jessica (Zumba), Sophia and Kirill (Argentine Tango), Shadan (Reggaeton), Sheree (Salsa and Bachata), Lucia (Bachata), and Jarod (Reggaeton). Private lessons are available on a flexible schedule for more in-depth technical instruction and personalized goal planning. The studio recommends combining group classes with private lessons for best results.

Viva hosts regular social events, dance nights, and performances, creating opportunities to practice and meet fellow dancers. The studio also rents its event space for birthdays, corporate events, weddings, baby showers, bridal showers, Sweet 15/16 parties, and other celebrations. The rental includes a spacious room with wooden floors, floor-to-ceiling mirrors, a waiting area, changing area, restroom, flat-screen TVs, a professional DJ audio system, and a colour lighting system. Custom choreography services are available for weddings, bachelorette parties, and special occasions.

Drop in for a group class (no partner needed—the studio rotates partners) or book a private lesson. Classes start with a warm-up, then break into level-based instruction. Beginners should arrive feeling nervous is normal; you'll gain confidence with each class. Register online before arriving, as classes fill up quickly.

Josh Hernandez owns and teaches at the studio, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in American Rhythm, International Latin, Swing, Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, and Zouk. Other instructors include Jessica (Zumba), Sophia and Kirill (Argentine Tango), Shadan and Jarod (Reggaeton), Sheree and Lucia (Salsa and Bachata).

No previous dance experience required for Level 1 classes; the studio emphasizes a fun, welcoming atmosphere and rotates partners so nobody dances alone.