Let's Dance L.A. offers the biggest and best Salsa classes in Southern California taught by award-winning and world-famous instructors. Salsa Division Director, Enio Cordoba, and partner Terryl Jones are considered two of the top Salsa Instructors in the world. They have taught at most of the major Salsa Congresses including L.A., the first three European Congresses in Haarlem, Netherlands;Istanbul, Skien(Norway), the Italian Congress in Rome, the German Dance Teachers Congress in Frankfurt, the World Dance Congress in Blackpool, as well as other major dance events in England, Spain, Latvia, Belgium, Austria, Slovakia, and all over the United States. Additionally, Enio was named Director and Chief Judge for the U.S and World Salsa Championships that was to be held September 13-16, 2001 in Orlando Florida although the event was cancelled due to 9/11. In addition Enio was a judge at The ESPN World Salsa Championships in October 2008. Brigitte Ryerson, a competitive dancer and awesome salsera, teaches the morning Salsa classes and the Friday beginners Intro classes. She has been a wonderful addition to LDLA for the past 10 years. Our Ladies and Men's Styling teachers include Lisana and Sporstmen's Lodge winners Hector Llamas.

The Who, What, When and How Much of Salsa Classes
Let's Dance was the first studio to introduce Casino Rueda in Los Angeles back in 1989. We also teach other latin dance classes, including Salsa Romantica, Merengue, Cha Cha, Rumba, Casino Rueda and Argentine Tango. Let's Dance is the only studio that has mid day salsa classes for those that work nights or weekends and have mid week days off.
Let's Dance regularly brings in fabulous instructors from around the world such as top East coast teachers Ismael Otero and Jayson Molina, 7 time US Latin Champion Ron Montez, Marlon Castillo, the organizer of the European Salsa Congress, Felipe Polanco, Puerto Rico's #1 instructor, Cuban Masters Homero from London, Orlando Alfonso from Montreal, and George "Chiqui" Dixon from Sweden.

What Kind of Salsa Do We Teach?
It is important to address that there is not one kind of salsa, but 7 major styles. Cuban, Puerto Rican, New Yorican, Miami, Columbian, and L.A. are the most common worldwide, but just like music changes so do dance styles. There are seven major styles of Salsa. Just like Rock and Roll from the 50's (Bill Haley and the Comets) is way different from Rock & Roll of the 1970s (Led Zeppelin), Salsa in Cuba (Los Van Van), is different than New York (Ray Baretto, Spanish Harlem), Colombia (Grupo Niche, Sonora Carruseles), Miami (Willy Chirino, Hansel Martinez), Puerto Rico (El Gran Combo, Gilberto Santarosa), Los Angeles (Johnny Polanco, Son Mayor). Just like music, the dance evolves by following the music regionally. Anyone who tells you there is only one way is telling you that because they probably only know one way. We have been dancing 30 years and can teach you all of them. I always start my beginners class by asking "What is the "RIGHT" religion?" and wait while no one answers. Salsa is the same way. Two factors influence the development of the dance. 1) Where the local dancers originally learned Salsa (Especially in LA where we have many more Central/South American dancers than New York (which has more Caribbean style) the music is so much more Columbian and Cuban in LA than NY where the music is more Latin Jazz & Puerto Rican. 2) The background of the dance teachers in the area. In New York many of the developers of Salsa started in the Hustle era so NY Salsa has many more hustle wrap patterns. In LA many of the teachers had Swing, Ballroom, Latin & Hustle background. Mix that with the local Cumbia dancers from Venezuela to Mexico and you can see how LA Salsa developed. We don't teach just one style of Salsa because you're not going to dance with one type of person, you're going to dance with everyone. We show you how to be able to lead or follow many different styles.
Let's Dance puts major importance on lead and follow technique so that people enjoy dancing with you. Our group classes are designed to make you feel comfortable out in the clubs in a very short period of time. For those who would like to learn dips, tricks, and lifts we offer private lessons with highly trained dancers. We also bring in Latin Dance Champions from around the world to teach special workshops Salsa Championship on staff. Enio recently was a judge at the ESPN World Salsa Championships in Orlando in 2007 & Terryl regularly judged major Salsa events plus they have both coached several winners of the Mayan Professional Salsa Championship and coach Olympic Ice Dancers. So they can take you all the way from A to Z and their unique method of teaching will allow you to learn whether you prefer to dance on 1, on 2 or on 3.

What is Latin?
Latin is the catch all term for everything that is Cuban or Caribbean/ South American based. Three different styles can be considered 1)Social dances- stuff you can hear in a nightclub- Cha Cha, Merengue, Bachata, Bolero; 2) Social Ballroom- Cha Cha, Rumba, Samba, American Rumba; 3) Competitive Latin- The style you see on Dancing With The Stars.

What Do We Teach?

Enio and Terryl the studio directors have both been dancing over 30 years. Enio started with folklorico, gravitated to Salsa in the 70s, then proceeded to have a very successful competitive Ballroom Latin and Swing Career. Terryl who had a successful competitve career later in Ballroom and later Swing and Salsa. In the late 80's when Salsa was experiencing a rebirth/evolution, Enio was at the forefront of the development of LA style Salsa. In the 1990s they were instrumental in opening the door for LA style Salsa in Europe as they performed and taught in nearly every country in Europe over 5 years. Over the years they have coached several Mayan competition winners, judged at the World Salsa Championships, and been awarded lifetime recognition awards. In the 90s, Enio won two consecutive Feather awards as the Hottest Mambo Dancer in the US. Additionally we are lucky to have three time US Professional Latin Champion (twice Italian Pro Champ & World Showdance Champion) Melissa Dexter teaching our International Style Latin classes. When her husband Giacomo Stecccaglia is in town (they split time between LA & Rome!) he will occasionally teach workshops and classes. Our other staff members are mostly trained by us from their early days performing on our youth teams. They are well versed in our methods and are specialists in making learning easy and fun.
Casino Rueda
What is that? Probably the most fun you'll have with your clothes on! A form originally from Cuban, highly developed in Miami in the early 90s it combines Salsa with group dancing kind of like high speed Square Dancing. We were the first to teach Rueda in Los Angeles and have had the biggest classes since 1990.

Street Dancers vs Trained Dancers
Many ballroom teachers while good DANCE teachers have no clue what street Salsa looks like so will try to teach you ballroom Mambo and call it Salsa. Many street dancers while dancing the authentic look of Salsa have no formal training in teaching so will frustrate their students by teaching bad habits, and a one size fits all mentality. Because of our passion for street Salsa and our role in the development of Salsa in LA we can not only teach you GREAT TECHNIQUE, we can make it easy to learn AND we don't try to sell you one style of Salsa (e.g. NY Salsa, Columbian) when you want to learn another style (e.g. LA or Miami). For over 15 years we continue to have THE BIGGEST CLASSES IN LA!

What level should I take? /How long will I be in level 1?
1. New Dancers: Definitely Level One. You will be in this level for approximately three cycles. Your first cycle is just figuring out what your feet are doing, next time you are starting to focus on arms and lead/follow skills, the third time you are adding in rhythm and body action. At this point you will be starting to move somewhat naturally. Also those that stay after and practice or take private lessons will progress much faster than someone who just does this once a week.

2. Club Dancers New to Lets Dance: Club dancers are sometimes very rhythmical with nice body action. What is missing are the partnering skills that allow them to dance with the good dancers. Also we have standardized names for the skills, elements and patterns. In level 2 we don't teach those things, we just say the name and expect you do what we request. Having the terminology makes everything quicker and easier. It is also unfair to those who have honestly acheived that level to have to wait while we reteach ONE person (who skipped level 1) something everybody else knows already.

3. Students from Other Schools: Every school has a different system for determining the levels of the students and classes. One school's level 4 may be equal to another school's level 3 or a third schools level 2. A safe bet is always drop down a level AND to also take the beginners class. Understanding the foundations that the teacher is building upon is crucial to getting the most out of a class.

4. Advanced LDLA Students: The class you have been promoted to AND the Level one class. All advanced athletes and artists always spend time working on the basic skills of their trade. A golfer continuously works on his golf swing even after they've achieved the Masters Division. True Greats at anything can never be too meticulous in their basics.

5. "Soy Latino, ya se bailar". Most Latinos grow up HEARING the music which means they may be more rhythmic- but knowing HOW to LEAD or FOLLOW is not genetic. Yes you probably will zip through level 1 but you will miss the secrets of spinning fast or how to lead which are taught in level 1. Be honest, you came to us because you wanted to get better. The experts at Let's Dance will make you better than you ever imagined. Tenga fe!


What Style of Salsa Do You Teach?
As we said -There is not one style of Salsa there are many: Cuban, Puerto Rican, Columbian, Brazilian, New York, Miami, and yes even Los Angeles style. Styles develop because the best dancers in each club develop their own styles and the masses follow. As the music changes and mutates so does the dance. The Mambo music of the 40s is nothing like the DLG/Los Van Van Timba style Salsa or the Luis Enrique/Eddie Santiago Salsa Romantica style or the Albita/ Hansel Martinez/Johnny Polanco Charanga style. When you go out dancing, you don¹t just dance with one style, you dance with whoever asks you. We teach lead and follow. For men that means you'll be able to lead, for ladies you'll be able to follow anyone than can lead or any style. Do men and women learn the same? No at first, dancing is much more difficult for men because they not only have to learn their own part they have to lead the girl. In the first two weeks most of the info is geared towards the guys. By the third week it changes though. Now the lady has to begin to do multiple spins and turns and follow a beginner guy's lead. How long will it take you to learn? Truthfully no one can tell you ahead of time because everybody has a different learning rate.

When should I start?
All Level One classes start at the beginning of each month; your first class will be the first week of the month. On the day of your first class, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before class is scheduled to begin. This will give you time to find parking, register as a new student, sign in for class, meet new friends, etc. Even better, come in any day before your class and preregister.

What if I can't make first Class?
We allow people to start as late as the second week. After that we recommend that you wait the two weeks until the start of the next class. Every week the teachers builds upon what was taught the previous weeks. By week three the students have a head start and either you will get frustrated or hold back the rest of the class.

How much are the classes?
An adult group class card starts at $62.00. This is good for six group classes. This can be used for any class in your level. Every time you take a class we punch a hole in the card. After six punches the card is used up and you simply purchase a new card. There are discount cards for students and now teachers.

What about private lessons?
Privates are booked on an appointment basis with individual teachers. On that lesson you can work on any of your particular problems. These cost $69.00 to $72.00 with a LDLA teacher and $77.00 to $83.00 with a LDLA director. For a single, a private is equal to about four or five group lessons. If you want to get out there in a hurry, private lessons will accelerate your learning.

Do I need a partner?
No, you do not need a partner. 95% of our students are singles. When it comes to leaders and followers LDLA has very balanced classes. Every class has frequent rotations so you will have the opportunity to dance with many partners of various levels.

What if I have my own partner?
It is the unamimous opinion of the best teachers that rotation in group classes with out a doubt accelerates the learning process of everyone in the class. Since many of our upper level students take beginning level classes to improve their own basics or just to help out, by rotating you¹ll get to dance with them and improve faster. When couples choose not to rotate you have a case of the blind leading the blind. More often than not these couples get frustrated and give up after a few lessons! By dancing with various dancers of different levels you will get a better perspective of what a good lead will feel like. In large classes you may rotate through ten partners or so and then jump back to your partner over and over. Start up the rotation a few steps away from your partner and by the time you rotate to each other you will have an idea what you both need. Invariably, beginner couples that stay together get lost together!

What should I wear?
The most important thing is that you are cool and comfortable. Some people come straight from work and others are in shorts. (If you are coming straight from work you might want to bring something "fresh" to change into. The shoes you wear are more important. Comfortable shoes that stay securely on your feet are imperative. The soles should be thin and flexible if possible. Thong sandals, platform shoes, and shoes with sticky rubber soles will make your life harder.
I¹m scared. Will this be fun?
We Promise!

When?
Salsa classes for adults start the first week of every month. Although we recommend that you start the first week, you may start as late as the second week of any month. We offer morning, afternoon, evening and weekend classes. We also have separate Salsa classes for teens, kids and seniors. There are two beginner levels to choose from - Intro Salsa 1A starts out nice and slow and is offered on Fridays 8:00-9:30pm. Salsa 1B is more of a fast track class and is offered three times a week, one on Tuesdays at 8:30pm, Thursday mornings at noon, and Saturdays at 3:00pm. Although both classes start from the beginning, Salsa 1 goes about 50% faster than the Intro Salsa Class. You will never need a partner as we rotate every minute or so. For advanced classes see the calendar for current dates and times. Class prices are all listed on our Prices page Allow plenty of time to register before your first class. Each class is followed by a free practice session for students who took the class and $5 for people who didn't.

Driving & Parking Directions

Many people don't know that Alhambra is only 8 miles east of the Staples Center in beautiful downtown Alhambra. Alhambra is just south of San Marino, and South Pasadena. The Granada can be reached easily from the Pasadena 110, San Bernardino 10 or Foothill 210 Fwys. Parking is free across the street, in back and one building past us in the city permit lot. Although the parking structure fills up fast with diners for the surrounding restaurants, the structure has a constant turnover. Getting to the Granada Download the following pdf map for a easy map. Map to the Granada . Or more specifically go to Mapquest Click here for driving directions: Mapquest page.

Where?

After 15 years at 216 East Main St, we purchased the 3-story Polo Club in Alhambra at 17 S. First Street, only three blocks from the original location. The new location was renamed The Granada and has four dance floors (nearly 8,000sq. ft) on three levels and features two full bars and Tapas restaurant named Guitarras The old 216 Main St location was recently resold to former instructor Joanna Vargas and remodeled at the same time and now features three ballrooms, with over 3,000 sq ft of floating maple dance floor with a 300 person capacity. The old studio will primarily teach Hip Hop, Ballet, and Jazz. There is plenty of available free parking in the back of both locations. Alhambra is 8 miles east of Downtown L.A. just below San Marino, Pasadena and So. Pasadena.

Videos
   Our award winning head instructors, Enio Cordoba and Terryl Jones, produce a series of videos in L.A. Style Salsa and Casino Rueda. In a worldwide video rating service, Enio and Terryl are in the Master Instructor sections and their videos and dvds are among the highest rated for content and value. Currently they have the 2nd, 3rd, and 11th best selling videos at Salsavideos.com, the top European distributor. See our video page for more information, or buy them in our online store!

LA's Best Salsa Club!

Once again we have been named the best place to dance by the Pasadena Weekly and out of all the clubs in Los Angeles, only two- the Avalon a rock club and Memories a Swing club 1st & 2nd respectively beat us in the My Fox 11 Best of LA voting. The Pasadena Weekly also named us the Best Karoke Club and Best Live Dance Venue In October 2005 and again in 2006 We won the Pasadena Weekly's Best Place to Hear Salsa Award! In 2008 we reclaimed the title of Best Salsa Club, Best DJs, Best Spanish Restaurant, and Best Place to Dance (Let's Dance L.A.) in the voting and Saoco our Friday night and 2nd shift Saturday DJ was voted best DJ. Unfortunately they don't have an award for the best dance floor but the Granada has a one of a kind floor that came from a former bowling alley. We're not like those clubs that say dance floor and have you dance on concrete or terrazzo. State of the art sound system and totally air conditioned. Tons of free parking in a very safe neighborhood. Three dance floors. Open for all ages and open til 3 am on Saturdays.
Salsa Central Lineup
Don't know the bands? Click on the bands and see a video clip.

Our band schedule for July & August

1. Fri July 16th Johnny Polanco
2. Sat July 17th Angel Lebron
3. Fri July 23rd Son y Clave
4. Sat July 24th Tabaco y Ron
5. Fri July 30th Chino Espinosa
6. Sat July 31st RAY DE LA PAZ!
7. Fri Aug 6th Chino Espinosa
8. Sat Aug 7th Son y Clave
9. Fri Aug 13th Angel Lebron
10. Sat Aug 14th Chino Espinosa
11. Fri Aug 20th Johnny Polanco
12. Sat Aug 21st ALFREDO DE LA FE!
13. Fri Aug 27th Sony Clave
14. Sat Aug 28th TBA

Friday Night Salsa

  May 18th was the night that the Friday drew more than double what Saturday normally draws. Over 550 turned out which was pretty amazing. Our Friday night format has been just what we expected. With the emphasis on slightly slower tempos, shorter songs and varied rhythms such as Salsa Romantica, Salsa, Cha Cha, and Merengue plus late night Reggaeton, the attendance has grown each week. We are finally averaging around 300 each week. More and more we are hearing girls complain that all the guys want to do is spin them. The comments have been really positive about the new formats. Surprisingly the bands have really liked this new format because they felt they were playing only fast and faster (Salsa Dura) which gets old for them as well. With attendance from 500-650, Salsa Central on Saturday nights has been pretty crowded on Saturdays so there beginners get pretty intimidated. Even advanced dancers felt that it was too crowded at times to dance without getting bumped and kicked. The only thing missing has been the dancers who feel the need to show off and dance out of control. How can you help? Spread the word!
So far this year we have brought in a couple of different bands such as Orquesta Charangoa, Echo Park Project and Ritmo Caliente. The long standing LA bands such as Johnny Polanco, Son Mayor and Chino Espinosa have all played the Friday format and they have been surprised at the positive response. Many new bands have submitted auditions tapes so look for new bands earlier next year.

Salsa Stars at The Granada

  When superstar Jimmy Bosch came in from the East Coast he drew two busloads from San Francisco, Las Vegas and San Diego to the Granada last time he was in town. So far this year we have had Frankie Vazquez and the wonderful Alfredo de la Fe for two nights with two different orchestras Son y Clave and Johnny Polanco. In the past few years Alfredo de la Fe, Cachao, Poncho Sanchez, Ray de la Paz, Manny Oquendo,Tiempo Libre, Grupo Gale, Maraca, Havana NRG and Patato have played at the Granada.
In 36 months since we opened, Salseros from all over the Southland have made the Granada THE #1 Salsa club in L.A. Not the biggest- the Mayan holds more people, but if you want to find the best dancers in L.A. or dance on a one of a kind dance floor, or dance under the stars, the Granada is the place. Dancers from Japan, Latvia, Holland, Slovenia, Australia, Africa, Argentina, Bolivia, China, Taiwan have all made the Granada the club of choice when visiting L.A.
In 2006, Cuban flutist Maraca played at the Granada and the Cubans were out in force to cheer and party with this fabulous Cuban band. Almost 700 dancers showed up and partied til 4 am. Several Hollywood actors and actresses turned out including Willie Marquez who we worked with on Dance With Me.

Friday Nights

  A favorite t-shirt of mine says "Spin her 'til the floor smokes!" That has become the favored style for many salsa dancers lately. We keep hearing from the girls how all that spinning is getting boring. (It's kind of hard to style or have latin motion when one is spinning) A recent article in LA Weekly Magazine noted how at one local club the "good dancers" will elbow & nudge you off the floor if they can't intimidate you off the floor. Therefore we have instituted a policy at The Granada- "If you want to do tricks, aerials or drops- perform at the Congresso, don't do it at the Granada!" This policy has been pretty well received. On Fridays though we have gone "old school" The first set is more beginner friendly as we've asked the bands to keep songs to under five minutes instead of the usual 8 minutes. Surprisingly the bands also have said that they were getting bored playing the same hyper speed Salsa and 8 minute long songs. Pay for the class and your admission to the dance is free! Minimum requirement- you must know OUR LEVEL 1 BASIC WARMUP, Salsa timing and simple Salsa turns to take the Salsa 2 or else you will be asked to take the Intro Class upstairs. You must be there early as no one may join after the first 10 minutes. This class is a series class so we recommend you start the first two weeks of the month. Once you learn it- you'll love it. Attendance at the Saturday night event called SalsaCentral at the Granada, has been very good. With attendance from 300+, it has been pretty crowded on Saturdays so there is a need on Fridays. But rather than play the same music both nights, we will be playing more varied Salsa music from the Caribbean and South America. Salsa, Bachata, Cha Cha, Boleros and Salsa Romantica. Our last Friday drew 390 people

Salsa Central Dress Code

  After a 4 years of having a dress code we are really pleased with the results. We've had no fights or problems and Let's Dance has a great reputation with the police department. Recently we heard the The Mayan Club banned jeans so we must be doing something right. While Let's Dance was mainly a studio, the Granada is so much more. Beautiful venue, restaurant, nightclub and dance studio. Since we are sharing the space with all these other businesses, it is important that we remember that we will be first and foremost the CLASSIEST place in the Salsa community. We don't want to attract the wrong element and don't want to make it so exclusive that we have the highest prices either. As a former director of security it is a well know fact that patrons that dress tough- act tough. Patrons that dress up- act accordingly. As dancers ourselves we understand that in any sport or athletic endeavour we are going to heat the body temperature.   The compromise is to wear clothes that don't show perspiration and still look dressy. Some of you may find that a second change of clothing is necessary if you sweat a lot. Although we never wish to turn anyone away, sometimes it will happen and it is both embarrasing for the patron and the host. We usually have Guyaberras for sale in case your bring a friend who doesn't know better but ripped jeans will always be turned away- NO MATTER WHAT YOU PAID FOR THEM.
Our new dress code is as follows: "Tastefully casual upscale evening wear."
NO T-SHIRTS
No sleeveless vests or tank tops for men
No ripped or oversize jeans
No baseball caps
No wallet chains or ghetto gear
Jeans, collarless shirts, hats and tennis shoes at our discretion. Typically if you are wearing any two of these discretionary items you will not be allowed in. (i.e. Jeans and Tennis Shoes = No) This dress code applies at all times. Our policy has been if you have nice slacks and shoes but the silk shirt is sleeveless and fashionable, you'll get in. If the shirt is just a "wifebeater" undershirt and ripped jeans then you have 2 out of 3 and don't get in, If 2 out of 3 are questionable then it is up to the doorman and subsequently the door manager. While a very few have been turned away in most cases we have allowed people in the first time with a warning to dress up next time. What we are trying to avoid is the gangbanger look where a guy in a wifebeater shirt and baggy ripped jeans around his thighs and head scarfs is scaring off the regular customers. If you have any comments or would like to give us your opinion on whether we should have a dress code, e-mail me and we will consider all suggestions.

Dress Code Survey Results

Soon after we created the dress code, a few club goers had complained that the Granada dress code was too restrictive. One guy under the influence of too much guaro actually became abusive and threatened to organize a boycott of the Granada. As such we put out a survey asking for your input and ta daaa... the envelope please... the responses were quick and like 99 to 1 in favor of keeping the dress code. Here are some of the responses:

Enio- I used to date a general manager of a bar. You are absolutely doing the right thing. He showed me the "death" cycle of a club. When it opened, it usually had hip young upbeat people in it. After about a year or 2, a different crowd would begin to show up. They were more dangerous looking, dressed like you describe, and as you said caused fights. Slowly the hip young crowd that was there before would leave and the crowd would become entirely these sorts.Then the club became a night time fight zone, sometimes with drugs, and the staff eventually quit.Bouncers at this point did very little good, these customers were not good paying customers anyway, and the club would die, have to be reopened under another name, etc. The first thing he ALWAYS did to keep the crowd clean was to enforce a good dress code.He considered this the first policy of survival for the longevity of the club.You are 100% right. If anyone complains you can consider them not the type of customer you want anyway. If your crowd turns south you will lose the customers you want to keep because they will be uncomfortable hanging out at the club.
Yours,
Jacqueline Catala
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Dear Enio,
I am a frequent attendee of the Granada. I think you have done a fantastic job with bringing LA a place with some real sense of class. When I refer to "class", I don't mean places that are "high soceity" or "shi-shi", but a place such as yours should command a certain level of chic representation. As a businessman who has seen almost every place on this globe, and the U.S., I strongly believe what you have done up to this point has been correct, and in good judgement. I would not change anything, ESPECIALLY the dress code. I was extremely disappointed with the LA Congress when it seemed that any thug off the street was in attendance. Please, I urge you not to consider changing the dress code. You have a wonderful upscale place for entertainment, and I would like to see it stay that way.
Kindest Regards,
Kerim Soyoguz
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I definitely agree on keeping your dress code. You have one of the nicest and classiest clubs in L.A. and the dress code keeps you having a quality clients. Just be sure your security are fair. Because I did see an incident that they kicked a guy out that wore a suit and got hot after a while and was in the club for 2 hours already and when he took his jacket off, he had a sleeveless dress shirt. The shirt was still nice but they kicked him out anyway. Well keep up the good work.
Joby Martinez
JOBY 'BRAVA' PRODUCTIONS
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Hey Enio and Terryl,
First let me just say congratulations on a great job in making the Granada not only the best club in California but also the most fun club to be at. I always look forward to going there on Friday and Saturday, you know me and Edie are everywhere and people from not only LA but from around the world are asking us where is the best club to go to in LA. We brag how it is by far the best club to be at on Friday and Saturday's. Well I do not want to take up all of your time,I just wanted respond to your email. I think if some one is dressed nice and they have a sleeve less shirt but the shirt is a nice,I think thats cool, if the shirt is raggedy I think you should not let them in, my reason for that is i have seen one of the guys that use to be on a classy dance company, he always dresses very nice, and this time he had on a pair of really nice jeans with a sleeveless shirt, but the shirt i thought was very nice, it had a collar and it was a button up shirt and i told him they will not let you in with that shirt, so he changed his shirt to another nice shirt with sleeves and even though the shirt with sleeves was nice it did not look as good as the shirt with no sleeves, it did not compliment his outfit.I used to be a gang banger and believe me Enio.... he did not look like one, and traveling not only around the world but even in the states i realized that is were the salsa style is headed.I also have a lot of nice shirts that are sleeveless, I even bought a killer suit that had no sleeves but i also have alot of nice shirts with sleeves, bottom line is... I am still going to ware what you and Granada require me to as I am still going to support you and Granada 100% well i have to run good luck and keep up the good work AL L .S.
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The reason I never go to the Mayan and or the Century Club is because of the dress code or lack of dress code which attracts the "ghetto crowd." I think it would be a mistake to let those people in. They get off by trying to break any rule or high statndard - their goal is to bring any tasteful successful business down. Please excuse them at the door and direct them to the Mayan, Century Club, or the many L.A. downtown hip hop clubs. There, they can pick fights, grab women, and vandalize cars on their way home. I respect the environment of the Granada, Stevens Steak House, and other salsa dress code clubs. It's scary that these clubs are in danger of extinction. I feel safe going alone and/or with friends. I know I'm going to meet open-minded, freiendly people who are there to dance, meet new friends, and have a good time.I don't have to worry about guys (scrubs) standing around who can't dance and are there just to drink, give mad-dog looks to salseros, and try to pick up salseras. These ghetto guys are there to pick up on salseras and cause trouble. They do not have the right mind set.Salseras know how to dress and dance sensual, with taste; therefore, of course salseras are beautiful and appealing, but that doesn't make them easy pick-ups with low standards. Unfortunately, these ghetto guys view salseras as Penthouse centerfolds. Salseras want other salseros who take the time to clean up and dress the part.These guys have the right mind set. Of course, they are attracted to salseras, but they are gentlemen and they know how to dance.They don't have to prove anything, but having a good time. Salseros have high self esteem. They're not haters, and they can't help being great lovers. Please keep your standards.It's your business. Remember, in this country, you have the right to run your business as you please; if others don't agree, they can go elsewhere.And this goes for me.As your almost regular Saturday night custormer, I hope that I can continue enjoying your business.
Sincerely,
Jessica Ramey
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there's nothing wrong with having a dress code. for the Granada in particular, it seems even more appropriate since it is such an elegant place. i think people, especially women, would want to go to a place they know is safe. if a dress code will make a place safer, the women will come, and wherever the women are, the men will follow. There are times when i would be wearing street clothes to dance salsa, but that usually means i'll be dancing on the street or some other outdoor venue. just my $0.02
brian
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Keep your level of dress, I like going out to a nice place. I love to dress up! Make people step up and step out.
Marina Valencia
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Please, please do NOT eliminate your dress code or make it "easier!" If I want to be around casual folk, I will hang out at my neighborhood bar or K-Mart. An evening of dancing is a special evening; being properly dressed myself, in the company of others who also demonstrate tasteful pride in their appearance halps me to enjoy the evening. I for one am not the least bit interested "hanging" with teeny-boppers, regardless of their actual ages. There is a time and a place for everything - please maintain or even raise your standards - let the "grownups" win for once!
shawnvc@
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I like the idea of getting dressed up to go dancing for several reasons: You are more likely to shower first. People do tend to behave better when dressed for an occasion.It will attract a safer clientele who are out to enjoy music and dancing.Dressing up is just a part of Latin dancing. For a female, I think that jeans should be acceptable.
Traci Rustin
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Keep the dress code. If there have been very few turned away, there should be few complaints. You have a classy place, and should attract a crowd that corresponds to the "decor". The problem you might have is when you open the 3rd floor to the younger Rock n Espanol crowd: however, JC Fandango's has both salsa and Rock venues, and enforces a dress code. Ultimately you set the standards. I think a dress code is a minimal requirement to comply with.
Janneane Siegel
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I feel it is important for you to keep the dress code.No exceptions!!! I have been coming just about every sat. since you have opened, and I feel safe in your establishment. I say this because I come alone and meet friends there, or I just come & enjoy by myself.If you do not have a dress code you could end up with the wrong element in your club. You have a great club do not change the set-up.....
JACQUELINE
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Thank you for including everyone in your decisions about the dress code... Being fairly new at the Granada, I appreciate the dress code as it is not asking a lot. All you want is a decent atmosphere where people can go to dance and have a good time without having to worry about any incidents happening. And that's the reputation the Granada has so far. And I do agree with the dress code and the rationale. Having gone to Catholic school most of my life, that was the reasoning behind wearing uniforms. They told us that when we wore uniforms it would instill in us a certain discipline and behavior. And guess what? It usually did ... :O) So I vote to keep the dress code !!! Thanks ... :O)
MTDoi@
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Yes, the dress code is appropriate.It sets the tone for your club and sets standards. Your club is becoming the standard in itself, and you want clientele who respect your club and other clients. If you consulted security people prior to setting the code, you have experts who have advised you for good reason. If you respect their knowledge, it is foolish to disregard their expertise. You dress appropriately for an occasion, and there is no reason why your clientele can't follow your example. In fact, as the primo teachers you are, it is your obligation to tutor students in appropriate dress---why not extend that teaching to your club? My respect for you extends to respect for your business and respect for your desire to project a certain image & tone, and my respect for myself causes me to behave accordingly.
Mary Ellen Correia
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I'm from OC and have heard the Granada is great but I'm right by Tapas so at the end of the week...the drive just seems to much.But I've been dying to go. I had no idea you had a dress code so it would be really terrible if I drove all the way up there and couldn't get in.So I would ask that you not turn away first time visitors. Also, once I was planning to go to Fandangos - which has a very acceptable dress code, but I forgot my nice slacks and had only a work-out outfit on.I went anyway and they let me in even thought I looked retarded - not dangerous.I just bought a super cute blue T-shirt with a fairy and a horse on it and I think I should be able to wear that for salsa.The only rule below I would take as an absolute is the shoes. And I leave for NYC this Wed for a week and want to know where the best most Granada like place to go there on a Friday is please and thank you.
JRalls
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I say the dress code you currently describe is good... keep it that way.
Jeanie Cutler
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Why not make your dress code simply: 1) No "gang-banger" attire, 2) no street tennis shoes (will scuff the floor and dance sneakers will be the logical choice) 3) no flip-flop sandals. This way, you will allow athletic wear and casual attire, that I think some of the younger salseros enjoy, but, at the same time, you will not allow the more questionable "gang look."
--Francisco Heredia
PS: I think asking for this public input is a good and smart move on your part.
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Keep your dress code as is.The "wifebeater"/""gangster" looks are definitely out of the question! I really like your club because of the comfortable yet semi formal attire code.So keep up the good work and keep on dancing! By the way.........any chances of opening up another business but out here in San Bernardino County? I use to go out there to Alhambra but its too far for me to go there on a weekly basis. I live in Rancho Cucamonga and I think there is a need for some spicy salsa courses out here! Necesitamos pique!
Vero Vma987@
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Dear Enio and Terryl:
I agree with you that a dress code as described below is appropriate for a club atmosphere.I also believe that the dress code sends a signal regarding appropriate behavior as well.People who "dress up" typically won't "act up." I typically dress up in an appropriate style to go out dancing, whether it's Country, Salsa, Swing, or Hustle, and I know how to dress for each crowd.Most of the clubs I go to have a dress code, and some of the objectionable items are the same as you have described. The only variance I would want from what you have described is that the dress code for Sunday and weekday lessons should not be so stringent, athletic gear could be allowed, but ghetto gear could not. Finally, I would add that it's your club, and you can do whatever you want. Making your patrons and customers feel safe is a worthy goal, and it makesgood business sense.
Sincerely,
David Kamins
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Thank you for the email on dress codes. I am 100% for your dress code...don't change it.
Richard Goennier
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I'm in complete agreement with the code below, as long as your door person just uses common sense not to let gang bangers in. Regarding more Salsa support, when are you having a Saturday Freebie intro to Salsa, this way I can bring my friends. I'm sure half of them will become repeat customers.
Thanks for asking my opinion,
Vince Madrid
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I like the dress code.It's pretty flexible, and I think it allows people to dress fairly casually while keeping out the baggy-jeans/wifebeater shirt way of dressing and acting.
Riki Garvin
Dancer
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Continue to enforce the DRESS CODE....and keep your CLUB and the SALSEROS having a clean and neat attire. Some hats are fashionable.
Norma Nieto
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Regarding the dress code:
My lady and I do not go out to clubs, so take that into account. I totally agree with your security consultants. I would prefer a club with a dress code - unless it's ridiculous, which yours is not. If someone's not willing to dress up and adhere to the dress code - why not? If they're not willing to comply with that, what else will they not comply with? I think only troublemakers will have trouble with a dress code. I would expect a more upscale club to have a more upscale dress code, and thus to have more upscale people. This is what I would prefer. It's just not that hard to meet the code. If you have a posted dress code, which is reasonably enforced, the club will acquire a reputation as a classier club, and the troublemakers will avoid it. I suspect this is already the case. Having the code gives you a measure of control over who gets in. You have the option of letting someone in - or not. If you remove it, you are giving away that measure of control, which makes it harder to exert control later should it become necessary. What problem are you trying to solve? Are people complaining about the dress code? Are you actually turning away that many people? Is attendance really falling off, or is it increasing? If it's increasing there's no reason to change. I think the club is an excellent and classy place, and would not want to see anything happen to erode that. I suspect one incident from a troublemaker will have a far greater impact than a few dancers who are unhappy with the dress code. Good luck.
Eric
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Hi Enio,
I agree with your dress code of ethics. We are not just a club, we are a dance studio with professional instructors like you, Terryl, Brigitte, and Others. We should continue what we have although there is always an opposition everywhere we can not avoid that. We should continue to be dignified and we do have a good reputation from former dance students. I know because that's the reason I'm in your class.... Thanks
Lynn R. Cabal
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Please keep the dress code, do not relax it. If you want to go with the gang-bang fashion I for one will stop coming. There are other clubs out there. I really like going to your club and have even spent a few hundred dollars on individual dancing lessons but I will not keep going if you decide to relax the dress code. I am going to dance and have fun not worry about getting caught in the cross-fire. Thank you for the opportunity to give you some feedback on this matter.
Eddie Macias
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Hi Enio,
Your dress code for Saturdays is fine and I wouldn't like too see it changed since for what hear from others who frequent your club on as well as myself, it is the elegantly dressed dancers, the live bands and the dance floor what makes it such a perfect venue to be seen at. It allows people the convenient option to dress up or keep it reasonably casual. Dimming the lights a bit more would be one change I would like to see though. For Fridays it may be a good idea to be more flexible since most people prefer to start their weekend straight from work where now it's common to dress down for casual Fridays.The addition of rock en espanol and hip hop will definitely attract some of the club goers in the area who may be curious about salsa but can not digest a night of 100% salsa dancing yet. Please add the same format for Saturday night so I can convince my not yet salsa dancing friends to check out your elegant, amazing, addictive and conveniently located club/studio. Regards
Patricia De Leon
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Thanks for your dress code. I, personally, love it when dancers look good.
Lou
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I totally agree your policy and let's keep LDLA a nice, clean place to dance.
Thanks and best regards, -- Gary
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Your "Dress Code" is great and I totally agree with it, if someone does not dress to impress does not belong in your club. Being such of beautiful place, your should stick to your rules and regulation and is great to select your clientele, there is enough of the normal well dress people to fill your place, Please do not change you guys are great the way you are. Because your club is "Classy" please Keep it that way.
Thank you,
privera@
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I think your dress code is justified and a good thing. Don¹t let the idiots change your mind.
Gail Swain
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Enio, thank you for asking for our input on this issue. We have been associated with your Let's Dance L.A. operation for about two years now. We love the professionalism and the level of excellence you guys have dedicated to everything you do. Consistent with that, we also have found The Granada to be a first class operation. We love the atmosphere. It is a breath of fresh air. Regarding the dress code, as a business man, I'm sure you've learned by now, that any time you strive for excellence, there is always a small core of vocal, strong willed people who seem to make it their personal mission to figure out a way to lower the bar. To demean excellence and standards, especially high standards. These type of people are persistent and often overbearing. I guess it's a personality type. For us, the Granada is a special place. It's the only salsa venue we know of in this area where one can go all dressed up to a classy place and have a wonderful evening with a bunch of other well dressed, classy people. When there is no dress code and some people dress like they just came from the beach, the atmosphere is not the same. It ruins the ambience. A good example would be the crowd at the recent L.A. Salsa Congress. Some of the people were down right scary in the way they dressed. Their presence cast a negative vibe over the whole event. I hope you and Terryl don't give in to the vocal minority of negative complainers. We think your current dress code is very reasonable. And just because a few people don't think it is worth the effort, doesn't mean they have the right to ruin it for everyone else. If it bothers them that much to wear "tastefully casual upscale evening wear" there are plenty of other "hole-in-the-wall" clubs that will accept them gladly in their grubby attire. Please don't ruin a wonderful thing for the rest of us. If the complainers don't like it, let them go. They have other options. We don't. There is no other "Granada" for us. Again, thanks for asking. We're behind you all the way on this one.
Larry E. Johnson
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My opinion is that a dance club should have a dress code. Usually the dress code is packaged under one word that basically summarize what you have stated below and that is "Up Scale Casual."
Victoria.Arteaga
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I was very pleased to see all dancers well dressed (not over dress) and good manners which was very enjoyable atmosphere that I found myself wanting to go back instead of looking for another club to have a good time. Keep your current policy
Thanks,
Tovalin david.tovalin@
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Dear Enio,
You've got to keep a strict dress code or you're going to lose your best clientele. My girl friend won't go to a place where she feels uncomfortable, therefore, I won't go..I like your policy.It¹s fair and reasonable.
Jim Malone
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Definitely keep the dress code
BDieck@
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Enio,
Your dress code is very reasonable.People should dress up to go out.
Vicci Houseman
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Enio,
Dress Code: I am good at salsa and swing, which is to say I get around. I find it immensly interesting that salsa has not found its roots like swing. You doubt me? Try the LindyGroove. Best of the Best in the continental US haunt that venue. 300+ on an average night. Dress code? Unfortunately, it sounds like you have many that show that don't make dance a higher priority. Or maybe it is the fact that at the LindyGroove $7 gets you in, and no alcoholic beverages are served. But I guess that will never get you - into heaven. True, the proprietor of the LindyGroove may be closer to Hollywood, but "setting" is goes a long way to conforming the crowd to your wishes, and I find it hard to believe doing that is outside of your capabilites. It doesn't require movie magic. I remember your good ol' days.
Thanks,
Dana
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I love it when nightclubs have a dress code. No person should be in a nightclub wearing their house shoes!
Gabriela Cruz
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Enio.
It was nice seeing you and Terryl, at Northrop a few weeks ago. I hope they can do it again. I think your dress code is very logical & refreshing. I have enjoyed the look of the other dancers, when my girlfriend & I were there. Keep up the good work. Regards to Robert.
JOEL CHESLER
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Have a dress code.
bcochran
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