Looking for a fun and social way to learn salsa dancing? Discover Rueda de Casino, also known as Salsa Rueda — an exciting group style of Cuban salsa where dancers form a circle, follow a leader’s calls, and switch partners in real time. If you’re looking for places to learn Rueda de Casino in Los Angeles, you’ve come to the right place.
Learn Rueda de Casino in Los Angeles at By Your Side Dance Studio
If you’re looking for Salsa Rueda classes in Los Angeles, come dance with us at By Your Side Dance Studio! We offer friendly and welcoming Rueda de Casino classes every Saturday, and no partner or experience is required.
Join our fun Salsa Rueda classes where rhythm meets connection in a dynamic dance experience! Salsa Rueda, also known as “Rueda de Casino,” is a captivating and energetic form of Salsa dancing that originated in Cuba. In this class, you’ll learn the art of Salsa dancing in a circle, where couples execute turn patterns and perform synchronized moves, seamlessly switch partners in response to the caller’s cues.
Salsa Rueda (Rueda de Casino) – Level 2 Friday @ 8:15 pm
Our experienced instructors will introduce you to the fundamental steps, partner coordination, and the basic structure of the Rueda. Then we will dive deeper into intricate patterns, and advanced footwork, and explore more complex Rueda figures. This Salsa Rueda class is tailored for all dancers seeking a challenge and looking to enhance their ability to navigate the dynamic Salsa Rueda dance style. Intermediate to advanced students only.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, our Salsa Rueda classes provide a welcoming and supportive environment to explore the rich cultural heritage of Cuban salsa. Join us on Saturdays and let the rhythm guide your steps as you connect with fellow dancers in the exciting world of Salsa Rueda!
What Is Rueda de Casino?
Rueda de Casino is a form of Cuban salsa danced in a circle (“rueda” means “wheel” in Spanish). Pairs of dancers perform synchronized moves while constantly changing partners based on the commands of a leader or “caller.” This unique structure creates an exciting group dance experience that blends social connection, musicality, and rhythm — and lots of laughter along the way.
Whether you know it as Salsa Rueda, Casino Rueda, or Rueda de Casino, it all refers to this playful, fast-paced Cuban salsa style that continues to grow in popularity, especially Salsa Rueda in Los Angeles.
The History of Salsa Rueda
Originating in Havana, Cuba in the 1950s, Rueda de Casino was born from a fusion of traditional Cuban son, mambo, cha-cha-cha, and Afro-Cuban dance forms. Dancers gathered in public spaces, clubs, and family parties to dance Casino in a circle — making it more of a collective social experience than a typical partner dance.
In the 1990s and 2000s, the Rueda format gained international momentum as Cuban salsa scenes grew in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. Today, it’s taught in salsa schools, Latin dance studios, and community centers around the world. And now there is a vibrant community for Rueda de Casino in Los Angeles.
Why Learn Rueda de Casino?
Whether you’re a seasoned salsa dancer or just starting out, Salsa Rueda is one of the most fun and engaging ways to improve your dance skills. Here’s why dancers love it:
- It’s Social: You dance with everyone in the circle, so it’s a great way to meet people.
- It’s Energetic: The upbeat music and fast partner changes keep things exciting.
- It Builds Skills: Improve your timing, musicality, and partner connection — all while having a blast.
- No Partner Needed: Just show up and join the circle!
Many people search for “how to learn Salsa Rueda” because they’re looking for a dance experience that’s more than just steps — and that’s exactly what Rueda de Casino offers.
What You’ll Learn in Our Salsa Rueda Classes
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced dancer, you’ll learn:
- Basic Casino footwork and body movement
- Common rueda calls and transitions (like “dame,” “enchufla,” “vacílala”)
- Partner connection, timing, and flow
- How to lead and follow within a group structure
- Musicality and Afro-Cuban styling
- Cuban salsa culture and community building
Each Rueda de Casino class helps you build confidence while keeping things fun and upbeat. You’ll also make real connections — in class, on the dance floor, and in life.