In Lak'ech Dance Studio

Introduction / Overview

In the dynamic and diverse city of Oakland, California, In Lak'ech Dance Studio has emerged as a truly unique and transformative space for the Afro-Latin dance community. More than just a place to learn steps, In Lak'ech, drawing its name from the Mayan concept "Tu eres mi otro yo / you are my other me, we are a reflection of each other," embodies a philosophy of radical inclusivity and community. Founded in 2017 by professional dancers and world champions Jahaira Fajardo and Angelica Medina, this studio stands proudly as the only queer, transgender, and allied Salsa and Bachata dance academy in the United States.

In Lak'ech Dance Studio is dedicated to creating a safe, affirming, and judgment-free zone where everyone, regardless of identity or dance background, can explore the joy of movement, build confidence, and connect with others. Their mission extends beyond teaching dance; it's about co-creating a community that celebrates resilience, nurtures collective strength, and fosters healing from oppression. Students consistently praise the "maestras" for being not only "professional dancers" and "world champions" but also "great teachers and great people who have created such a beautiful community." Whether you're a complete beginner who "didn't even know countings 12345678" or an experienced dancer looking to refine your technique, In Lak'ech offers an unparalleled and profoundly welcoming experience in the vibrant world of Latin dance.

Location and Accessibility

In Lak'ech Dance Studio is conveniently located at 2885 Ettie St, Oakland, CA 94608, USA. This West Oakland location places the studio within easy reach for residents throughout Oakland and the wider Bay Area. While some might initially find the entrance "hard to spot," rest assured, it is there, waiting to welcome you into a vibrant dance community.

One of the significant advantages highlighted by satisfied customers is the ample parking available. "There's plenty of free parking out front and in the neighborhood," making it exceptionally convenient for those driving in from various parts of the Bay. This practical benefit is particularly valuable in an urban setting like Oakland, where parking can often be a challenge. The studio's accessibility, combined with its welcoming atmosphere, means that individuals from diverse locations, even those driving "from literally hours away," are able and willing to make the journey to be part of this "magical" space. This ease of access ensures that the In Lak'ech Dance Studio serves as a true hub for Latin dance enthusiasts across California.

Services Offered

• Drop-in Classes: Flexible options for single classes in various styles, including Bachata, Salsa, and Kizomba, perfect for trying out a class or for those with inconsistent schedules.
• Beginner and Intermediate Series: Structured progression courses designed to build foundational skills and advance technique in Latin dance styles like Bachata and Salsa.
• Salsa Classes (On1 & On2): Instruction in different Salsa timing styles, with an understanding that many dancers can switch between them, ensuring a versatile learning environment.
• Bachata Classes: Comprehensive instruction in Bachata, a popular and sensual Latin dance form.
• Merengue Classes: Opportunities to learn Merengue, known for its lively rhythm and simpler steps, making it accessible to beginners.
• Kizomba Classes: Introduction to Kizomba, an Angolan dance known for its close connection and smooth, sensual movements.
• Queer Sabor Dance Parties: Monthly dance parties that are intentionally welcoming to all identities, with a majority of attendees being BIPOC and queer, creating a safe and celebratory social dancing space.
• Lead and Follow Instruction for All: Unique approach where lead and follow roles are not assumed to fall along gendered lines, empowering anyone to learn either role.
• Private Lessons: Personalized attention with instructors to focus on specific dance goals, learn choreography, or refine technique.
• Performing Teams & Competition Teams: Opportunities for academy dancers to train, learn choreography, and perform at Latin dance festivals and events, and compete at national and international competitions.
• Queer Latin Dance Festival: Founders of the first-ever Queer Afro Latin Dance Festival and Competition in the world, hosting workshops and social dancing.

Features / Highlights

• Pioneering Inclusivity: The only queer, transgender, and allied Salsa and Bachata dance academy in the United States, committed to creating a safer and affirming space for all gender identities and sexualities.
• Award-Winning Instructors: Led by professional and world-champion dancers Jahaira Fajardo and Angelica Medina, ensuring high-quality instruction from experienced and celebrated artists.
• Judgment-Free Zone: A core philosophy of treating everyone with "love, kindness, respect and judgment free zone," fostering a supportive and encouraging environment for all learners.
• Non-Gendered Lead & Follow Roles: A significant highlight is the groundbreaking approach where lead and follow roles are taught to anyone, breaking traditional gendered norms in Latin dance and providing "a breath of fresh air" for many.
• Strong Community Focus: Praised for creating a "beautiful community" where people feel free to be their true selves, encouraging connection and belonging among dancers.
• Diverse Offerings: Provides a wide range of Afro-Latin dance styles, from Bachata and Salsa to Merengue and Kizomba, catering to varied interests and skill levels.
• Queer Sabor Parties: Unique monthly dance events that cultivate a vibrant, inclusive social dancing scene, attracting dancers from across the Bay Area and beyond.
• Accessible Parking: A practical yet significant feature, with "plenty of free parking out front and in the neighborhood," making attendance convenient for locals and visitors alike.
• Healing Through Dance: The studio's mission includes promoting "artistic expression & healing within the queer community," recognizing dance as a tool for self-care and trauma release.
• Culturally Grounded Events: Committed to producing events that are culturally grounded within Latinx traditions and communities.

Contact Information

Address: 2885 Ettie St, Oakland, CA 94608, USA

Phone: (415) 314-6364

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For locals in Oakland and across the broader California Bay Area, In Lak'ech Dance Studio stands out as an exceptional and uniquely suitable destination for learning and enjoying Latin dance. Its foundational commitment to being a "queer, transgender, and allied" dance academy means it offers a truly safe and affirming space that is still rare in the dance world. This intentional inclusivity creates an environment where individuals from all walks of life, especially BIPOC and queer communities, can express themselves authentically without fear of judgment, fostering a deep sense of belonging that resonates powerfully with many.

The caliber of instruction is another significant draw. Learning from "professional dancers and dance competition winners" like Maestras Jahaira and Angelica ensures that students receive top-tier technical guidance, even if they've "never danced before." The flexibility of drop-in classes and comprehensive series, coupled with the freedom to learn both lead and follow roles regardless of gender, makes dance accessible and empowering. Furthermore, the practical convenience of "plenty of free parking" is a major bonus for busy Californians navigating urban areas. Beyond the dance steps, In Lak'ech cultivates a vibrant and kind community, evident in their popular monthly Queer Sabor parties, which attract dedicated dancers from "literally hours away." For anyone in California seeking not just dance lessons, but a truly transformative, community-driven, and joy-filled experience in Latin dance, In Lak'ech Dance Studio in Oakland is the ideal spot to find your rhythm and your people.

In Lak'ech Dance Studio

2885 Ettie St, Oakland, CA 94608, USA