About the Class

Beginners Salsa, Bachata & Merengue Dance Class Series (4 sessions)

Looking for a fun and welcoming way to start dancing? Join our Beginner Salsa, Bachata & Merengue Dance Class Series this fall at La Peña Cultural Center in Berkeley! This 4-class series (Oct 27 - Nov 17) is perfect for newcomers or anyone ready to refresh their skills in a supportive, inclusive space.

Unlike traditional classes, we use “leaders” and “followers” instead of gendered roles, making space for everyone to feel seen and empowered on the dance floor. You’ll learn to tune into your natural rhythm, build confidence in your movement, and connect joyfully with others through music and dance.

This 4-class series is designed for everyone, from absolute newcomers to those looking to refresh their dance skills.

Class Details

Dates: Mondays: October 27, November 3, 10, 17 - 2025

Time: 6:15 PM – 7:15 PM

Location: La Peña Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA (near Ashby BART)

Enrollment Cost: $94 for the 4-class series (+ Eventbrite fees)

✨ Bonus: Registration includes one free entry to our monthly community dance party, ¡BAILA!

All are welcome. No partner required.

Why take classes at La Peña:

🔸 Build Confidence: Move with ease and feel good in your body.

🔸 Explore and enhance your dance skills with expert guidance from Juliana Mendonca (she/her).

🔸 Dive into the basics of salsa, bachata, and merengue through your bodys natural movements.

🔸 Join a welcoming community and make new friends on the dance floor!

Already taken this class or want to dive a little deeper? Check out the Advanced Beginner class HERE!

🏳️‍🌈 La Peña is a Queer affirming space: We strive to create an empowering and supportive environment for everyone 🏳️‍⚧️

Questions?

Contact us at: classes@lapena.org

About Juliana Mendonca

Julianas performances primarily feature her as a solo artist, integrating creativity with spirit and nature through dance. She holds a degree in dance from the University Institute of Caracas, Venezuela and has taught at the Performing Arts Department of the University of the Andes in Mérida, Venezuela. Her distinctive teaching method prioritizes connecting with your bodys rhythm before mastering steps and turns.

IG @julianamendoncadance | Website: Liquidanza.com

Community Agreements

We prioritize creating a safe and inclusive environment where everyone can learn and grow in a supportive space.

We ask that you:

• Be Present
• Ask for consent
• Honor everybodys gender identity, gender expression & pronouns
• Treat everyone with respect
• Take care of the space
• Practice thoughtful communication
• Practice active listening
• Take care of yourself & each other
• Honor La Peña Staff & organizers requests

By registering for this class, you agree to uphold our shared community agreements.