Whether you're looking to try something new, meet people, or finally master a style you've always admired, Bellevue's dance studios are expanding their summer schedules with classes for a range of skill levels and interests. Below, we break down three distinct summer programs—from vintage swing to Cuban salsa to contemporary choreography—each with the practical details you need to decide where to step in.
Best for Vintage Enthusiasts: Swing at Groove Central
What it is: A month-long swing dance series covering the Lindy Hop and Charleston, with a live jazz band joining the final 20 minutes of each session so students can practice to period-appropriate music.
Who it's for: Beginners and intermediate dancers. No partner required; Groove Central rotates partners throughout class.
When it meets: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7:00–8:30 p.m., June 4 through June 27.
How much it costs: $180 for the four-week session; drop-ins are $35 per class if space allows. Sign up before May 20 and the first month drops to $144.
How to sign up: Register through Groove Central (direct studio link).
The local angle: Groove Central has operated in downtown Bellevue since 2008 and regularly partners with Seattle-based jazz musicians for its swing programming.
Best for Social Dancers: Latin Nights at Luna Lounge
What it is: An evening series focused on Cuban-style salsa (casino), plus bachata and merengue. The footwork and partner patterns differ from the more common LA-style salsa taught elsewhere in the Seattle area.
Who it's for: Beginners welcome, though the casino emphasis may feel unfamiliar if you've trained in linear salsa. Fridays are explicitly social; structured classes run Monday through Thursday.
When it meets: Classes Monday–Thursday, 6:30–9:00 p.m. (level-specific time slots). Dance socials every Friday, 8:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m.
How much it costs: $150 for a six-class card; Friday socials are $12 at the door, or free if you attend a class that week.
How to sign up: View the schedule at Luna Lounge (direct studio link).
The local angle: Luna Lounge's lead salsa instructor, Maria Santos, previously danced with Ballet Hispánico in New York before relocating to the Pacific Northwest.
Best for Aspiring Choreographers: Contemporary at The Movement Hub
What it is: A four-week choreography workshop led by Ella Matthews, focusing on fluid transitions, dynamic sequencing, and using movement to build narrative.
Who it's for: Dancers with at least one year of prior training in any style. Matthews offers modifications, but absolute beginners may find the pacing challenging.
When it meets: Saturdays, 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m., July 6 through July 27.
How much it costs: $220 for the full workshop; no drop-ins.
How to sign up: Enroll through The Movement Hub (direct studio link).
The local angle: Matthews debuted an original work at Bellevue's annual Arts in the Parks festival last summer and is developing new material with workshop participants for a small studio showing in August.
At a Glance: Which Class Fits You?
| If you want... | Go here | Commitment | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live music and vintage vibes | Groove Central | 2 nights/week, 4 weeks | $144–$180 |
| A strong social scene and Cuban salsa | Luna Lounge | Flexible class card + Friday socials | $150 + optional $12 socials |
| To build a piece and perform | The Movement Hub | 4 Saturday mornings | $220 |
What to Know Before You Go
- What to wear: Comfortable clothes you can move in. For swing and salsa, leather-soled or dance shoes help you turn more easily; sneakers work for contemporary.
- Partner requirements: Only Groove Central's swing series requires no partner. Luna Lounge rotates partners during class but welcomes couples who want to stay together.
- Parking: Groove Central and The Movement Hub validate parking at their respective downtown lots. Luna Lounge is a short walk from the Bellevue Transit Center.
Know of a summer dance class we missed? Email us at [email protected].
