Westmor Ballroom

Westmor Ballroom occupies a space with nearly a century of dance history. Before it became Westmor, this was the Ernest Belcher Dance Studio, where Fred Astaire, Shirley Temple, Cyd Charisse, and Maria Tallchief trained during Hollywood's golden age. Today it remains a working ballroom and event venue on the 3rd floor of 607 S Western Ave in Koreatown, Los Angeles.

The studio teaches ballroom and Latin styles: Waltz, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Quickstep, Rumba, Cha-Cha, Salsa, Samba, and Bachata. It also runs group classes in Adult Ballet, Adult Contemporary Dance, and Open Level Adult Hip Hop. All group classes are approximately 45 minutes long. Classes run across multiple levels—beginners rotate partners throughout lessons, so you don't need to arrive with one. You can drop in for a single class or buy packages (which expire within three months). A free 30-minute intro session is available for wedding dance instruction.

The instructors are NDCA-certified teachers and accomplished competitors. Lilia Padriezas and Valdas Padriezas are co-owners, certified by both the National Dance Council of America and the World Dance Council. Lilia has been a finalist in prestigious ballroom competitions across the United States and internationally; Valdas began dancing at 11 and has partnered with Lilia since age 17, with the same competition pedigree. Both have appeared on Dharma & Greg, the Oprah Winfrey Show, and Cherish the Day, and provided choreography for Germany's Next Topmodel. Uros Markovic, born and raised in Serbia, became National Champion of Serbia in Ballroom and Latin dance, represented Serbia at four World Championships, and performed with Balkan artist Jelena Karleuša and tenor Andrea Bocelli. Anna and Kiril Kish also teach here.

The ballroom itself features Art Deco architecture, crystal chandeliers, gilded details, a polished hardwood floor, and soaring ceilings. There is a built-in stage with projection screen. The space accommodates up to 499 guests (350 for banquet-style seating, 400 for theater-style). An on-site bar area is available (no alcohol provided or sold). The venue is wheelchair accessible via elevator; the women's restroom accommodates wheelchairs, though the men's restroom is not wheelchair accessible.

Westmor hosts group classes, private lessons, wedding dance preparation, quinceañeras, corporate galas, private celebrations, and practice rounds (Friday and Sunday). Wedding packages include custom first-dance choreography, father-daughter and mother-son dances, and bridal party routines. Private lessons are $135 for 45 minutes. Hours are Monday–Friday 10 AM–10 PM, Saturday 9 AM–11 PM, Sunday 10 AM–8 PM.

On your first visit, you'll enter a historic ballroom with Art Deco chandeliers and a sprung hardwood floor. Most group classes rotate partners and welcome complete beginners. Comfortable clothing that allows free movement is recommended; dance shoes are encouraged but not required for beginners. Avoid rubber-soled shoes that damage the floor. First-time group ballroom students can use coupon code FIRSTTIME for $15 off when bringing a friend.

All instructors hold NDCA certification. Co-owners Lilia and Valdas Padriezas are finalists in prestigious international ballroom competitions and have appeared on television (Oprah, Dharma & Greg, Cherish the Day) and provided choreography for Germany's Next Topmodel. Uros Markovic, National Champion of Serbia in Ballroom and Latin, competed in four World Championships and performed with Andrea Bocelli. Anna and Kiril Kish also teach.

Complete beginners are welcomed; instructors create a supportive environment and classes rotate partners so you don't need to arrive with one.