Rene's Latin Dance & Music Studio

For Minnesotans looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant rhythms and passionate movements of Latin dance, Rene's Latin Dance & Music Studio in Richfield stands out as a true gem. Led by the highly acclaimed René Thompson, this studio offers an authentic and comprehensive approach to Latin and Afro-Cuban dance forms, providing a unique cultural experience right in the heart of the Twin Cities metro area. Whether you're a complete beginner eager to learn your first salsa steps or an experienced dancer looking to refine your technique, Rene's studio is celebrated for its expertise and the genuine connection it fosters with the rich heritage of Cuban dance.

René Thompson, a 2015 Sage Award Nominee for "Outstanding Dance Educator," brings over 30 years of professional dance performance and teaching experience to the Twin Cities. His deep understanding of Cuban dance and Cuban rhythms, a knowledge rarely found outside of Cuba itself, ensures an unparalleled learning experience. At Rene's studio, you don't just learn steps; you learn to "hear and feel the rhythm," connecting with the very soul of the music. While one online review noted a past difficulty with finding the location, the studio actively communicates its current address and contact information, ensuring accessibility for all eager dancers. Many describe the experience as "Authentic!", highlighting the true-to-roots instruction that sets this studio apart for the local Minnesota dance community.

Rene's Latin Dance & Music Studio is located at 6722 Penn Ave S, Richfield, MN 55423, USA. Richfield is a conveniently situated suburb just south of Minneapolis, making the studio easily accessible for residents across the southern and central Twin Cities metropolitan area, including Bloomington, Edina, and parts of Minneapolis itself. The studio actively provides its current address and encourages direct contact via email or text for those looking to join classes, ensuring clear communication on its location.

It's important for prospective students to note that while the main address is in Richfield, René Thompson has historically also taught classes at other venues, such as CM's Fitness & Dance Studio (located nearby at 6706 Penn Ave So., Minneapolis, MN 55423, which may be the current physical teaching space) and previously at Midtown Global Market. For the most up-to-date information on where classes are held, it is always best to contact René directly. The studio's commitment to accessibility is further demonstrated by its offering of classes in both English and Spanish, catering to a broader segment of the local community. The emphasis on direct communication helps ensure that despite any past confusions, new students can easily find their way to the dance floor.

Rene's Latin Dance & Music Studio offers a focused yet comprehensive range of Latin and Afro-Cuban dance instruction, tailored to build skills from the ground up while also catering to advanced dancers.

• Group Classes for All Levels:
  • Beginning & Intermediate Latin Dance: This class introduces students to the principles of Latin dancing, focusing on rhythm, timing, basic footwork, posture, and partner connection. Students learn easy dance patterns, including single turns and simple variations in connection with a partner. Intermediate dancers delve into Caribbean rhythms (merengue, salsa, bachata, cha-cha-cha, mambo, etc.) and technique in leading and following, including cross body leads, back breaks, and turns.
  • Advanced AfroCuban & Latin Dance: For experienced dancers, this class focuses on perfecting style and positions, advanced turn techniques (doubles, triples), complex pattern variations, syncopated footwork, body isolations, and combinations of Latin rhythms. It also explores how AfroCuban dance and music evolved into contemporary Latin forms.
• AfroCuban Dance: René Thompson teaches the authentic AfroCuban dance traditions learned from his family, exploring the history of Orishas related to dance patterns, Cuban rumba (the forerunner of Cuban salsa), and its connection to contemporary salsa.
• Private Lessons: Individual private lessons are available by appointment, providing personalized coaching to improve technique and style rapidly. These are offered for both men and women, with options for single lessons or packages of four.
• Classes in Both English & Spanish: To accommodate the diverse Twin Cities community, classes are offered with instruction in both languages.
• Flexible Payment Options: Students can pay per class or purchase a class card to save money, with incentives for filling multiple class cards.
• Performance Organization: René Thompson also organizes dance performances for various events, including corporate events, fundraising galas, weddings, and anniversaries, bringing the joy of Latin dance to broader audiences.
• Gift Certificates: Gift certificates for salsa lessons are available, making it easy to share the joy of dance with friends and family.

Rene's Latin Dance & Music Studio stands out in the Minnesota dance scene for several compelling reasons:

• Authentic Cuban Expertise: The primary highlight is René Thompson himself. With over 30 years of professional experience and a deep-rooted knowledge of Cuban dance and rhythms passed down through his family, he offers an authenticity rarely found outside of Cuba. This ensures students learn true Cuban style.
• Focus on Rhythm and Feeling: René teaches more than just steps; he emphasizes learning to "hear and feel the rhythm," which is fundamental to truly understanding and enjoying Latin dance. This holistic approach sets his instruction apart.
• René Thompson's Credentials: As a 2015 Sage Award Nominee for "Outstanding Dance Educator" and someone who has danced on stages worldwide, including with Gloria Estefan, René brings a high level of credibility and experience to his teaching. He is also honored by various organizations for his insights into Afro-Cuban roots.
• Comprehensive Social Dance Program: The studio is noted for having "one of the most comprehensive programs available in all areas of social dancing," catering to those who want to dance at clubs, professionals seeking expert coaching, or those just looking to learn for fun.
• Community Building: While reviews specifically mention a desire to connect with the dancing community, the studio's focus on social dancing and the inclusive nature of its classes (all levels welcome) naturally fosters community among its students.
• Expansion of Services: The studio has successfully expanded its scope to include show performances, corporate events, dance vacations, and wedding services, showcasing the versatility and reach of their expertise.
• Bilingual Instruction: Offering classes in both English and Spanish is a significant feature that makes the studio accessible and welcoming to a broader demographic within the Twin Cities.
• Dedicated to Passion: René's personal philosophy of teaching because it's his "passion" translates into a dedicated and inspiring learning environment for his students.

For class schedules, registration, private lesson inquiries, or to book performances, please contact Rene's Latin Dance & Music Studio directly:

Address: 6722 Penn Ave S, Richfield, MN 55423, USA

Phone: (612) 578-2110

Mobile Phone: +1 612-578-2110

Email: salsacontimba1@gmail.com

Website: renedance.com (It is highly recommended to check the website and contact René directly for the most current class locations and schedules.)

For Minnesotans, particularly those in Richfield, Minneapolis, and the surrounding suburbs, Rene's Latin Dance & Music Studio offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn authentic Latin and Afro-Cuban dance. The studio's core strength lies in its founder, René Thompson, whose deep roots in Cuban dance and over three decades of experience ensure a truly genuine and high-quality educational experience. Locals will appreciate his ability to teach not just the steps, but how to truly connect with the music and rhythm, making the dance experience profoundly enriching.

Despite past feedback about finding the location, the studio's commitment to direct communication via phone and email ensures accessibility for new students. The comprehensive program, catering to all levels from absolute beginners to advanced dancers, and offered in both English and Spanish, makes it an inclusive space for the diverse Twin Cities community. Whether you're looking for a new hobby, aiming to shine on the dance floor, or seeking professional coaching, Rene's Latin Dance & Music Studio provides a passionate, authentic, and welcoming environment right here in Minnesota. It's more than just dance lessons; it's an immersion into a vibrant culture, led by a true master of the art form.

Rene's Latin Dance & Music Studio

6722 Penn Ave S, Richfield, MN 55423, USA