Bachata dance classes in Bristol
Learn sensual bachata and dance every Monday and Wednesday at Totos By The River in the heart of Bristol.
Weekly classes and socials
- When: Mondays and Wednesdays
- 7:30–9:30pm: classes for beginners, improvers and intermediate/advanced dancers
- 9:45–11:15pm: party and practice
- Where: Totos By The River, 125 Redcliff Street, Bristol BS1 6HU
No partner or booking is needed. New absolute beginners get a free first class: message Jan on Facebook to register.
What you’ll learn
- Fun moves, isolations, dips and body waves
- Lead and follow technique
- Musicality and styling
- Connection and confidence on the dance floor
What is sensual bachata?
Sensual bachata was created in Cádiz, Spain, by Korke Escalona and Judith Cordero. It is an independent dance form with clear lead-and-follow principles, built around interpreting the music through mostly circular movement and body waves, with isolations and dips on stronger beats.
Your teachers
Bristol Bachata was founded in 2018 by Jan Tabaka, an international teacher with more than 12 years of sensual bachata experience. Jan is joined by resident teachers including Ish & Mariana, Sharooq, Giselle, John & Mishel, Paulina, and Ed & Becca, plus guest artists. The school has been featured on BBC One and BBC Four.
Prices
| Option | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Classes + social | Two hours of classes plus the party | £14 |
| One class + social | One hour of class plus the party | £10 |
| Social only | 9:30–11:30pm | £6 |
| Monthly pass – Monday or Wednesday | Unlimited classes and socials on one night | £46 |
| Monthly pass – Monday and Wednesday | Both nights | £80 |
Cash or card at the door. Student and share discounts available. Get passes online at the Bristol Bachata store.
Upcoming parties
Check the Bristol Bachata website or Facebook events for the latest details and tickets.
Etiquette and code of conduct
Everyone is here to dance and have fun, so please help keep the floor safe and respectful:
- Arrive clean and fresh, with clean clothes and fresh breath.
- Listen to the teachers and don’t chat while moves are being explained.
- Respect your partner’s personal space and keep hands in respectful places.
- Stay focused on the person you’re dancing with, and respect their level – don’t teach or attempt tricky moves beyond it.
- Watch out for others on the social floor, especially with hand throws and dips. A gentle squeeze on the shoulder can warn your lead of a collision.
- You’re always free to say no to a dance.
Everyone who takes part agrees to follow this code or may be refused entry. If something doesn’t feel right, tell Jan or any member of the team.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a partner or to book?
No. Just turn up. Partners rotate during classes and the social is relaxed and welcoming.
I’ve never danced before. Can I come?
Yes. Classes are split by level, with a beginners group, an improvers group and an intermediate/advanced group. The first class is free for absolute beginners.
How do I claim the free beginner class?
Message Jan on Facebook to register for your free pass.
What does it cost?
£14 covers two hours of classes plus the social, £10 covers one hour of class plus the social, and £6 is social only. Monthly passes are £46 for Monday or Wednesday, or £80 for both. Student discounts are available.
Where is it?
Totos By The River, 125 Redcliff Street, Bristol BS1 6HU, in the city centre. There is a bar on site, so please don’t bring outside drinks.
Come and dance with us
Message Jan for your free beginner class, or just turn up on a Monday or Wednesday.