Not sure which Latin style is right for you? That is exactly the right place to start. NP Dance Studio in Naperville, IL has been teaching the full range of styles in this family since 2013, rated 4.8/5 on Google, with instructors who compete and teach at a high level. Whether you end up falling in love with Salsa, Bachata, Rumba, or something else entirely - we will help you find your style.
Latin Dance Classes in Naperville, IL
"I recently started taking classes at NP Dance and I couldn't be happier. All the teachers are fantastic and the studio invites top visiting coaches, which is a great opportunity to improve."
- Ola G., NP Dance Student
Not All Latin Dances Are the Same
This is a family of styles, each with its own character, music, and social scene. Here is a quick guide to help you understand the difference before your first lesson:
-
Salsa - fast, energetic, social. The most widely danced style at Latin nights across Chicago and Illinois. Dedicated Salsa classes available.
-
Bachata - smooth, romantic, deeply connected. Popular at both dedicated Latin events and general social events. Dedicated Bachata classes available.
-
Cha-Cha - playful and sharp, with a distinctive triple step. Great for students who want a fun, rhythmic challenge.
-
Rumba - slow, sensual, and expressive. Known as the dance of love. Focuses heavily on hip movement and partner connection.
-
Samba - upbeat Brazilian energy with a bouncing hip action and fast footwork.
-
Mambo - high-energy Afro-Cuban style with syncopated rhythm and expressive footwork.
-
Paso Doble - dramatic and powerful, inspired by the Spanish bullfight. A competition staple.
-
Bolero - slow and sultry, blending Latin hip movement with smooth, flowing lines.
NP Dance Studio also teaches Swing and East Coast Swing as separate styles - see our dedicated Swing classes page for more.
How We Help You Find Your Style
In your first lesson at NP Dance Studio, your instructor will get to know what music you love, where you want to dance, and what kind of movement feels natural to you. From there, they will recommend the best starting point and build a plan that makes sense for your goals.
​
Many students start with Salsa or Bachata and branch out from there. Others come in knowing exactly what they want. Either way, your lessons are private and entirely customized - there is no fixed curriculum and no pressure to follow anyone else's timeline.
​
Instructor Tony Ovalle specializes in Latin American dances. Instructors Daga (Dagmara Milek) and Kuba (Sawicki) are active competitors in both dance categories and bring deep technical knowledge to every lesson.
The Dance Community in the Chicago, IL Area
One of the best things about learning to dance in the Naperville area is where it can take you. Chicago has one of the most active social scenes in the Midwest, with regular salsa nights, bachata evenings, and festival events throughout Illinois year-round.
​
NP Dance Studio hosts regular social parties in Naperville and Aurora - a welcoming, low-pressure environment where students practice what they have learned and connect with other dancers in the community.
Students From Across the Chicago, IL Area
NP Dance Studio in Naperville draws students from Aurora, Wheaton, Downers Grove, Lisle, Bolingbrook, and surrounding Illinois communities. Whether you are coming for your first ever lesson or looking to add new styles to an existing background, our program has room for you.
​
Adults of all ages take classes here. Whether you are in your 20s and want to dance at clubs in Chicago, or you are older and looking for something physically engaging to do with a partner, our instructors adapt entirely to your goals and pace.
About NP Dance Studio
NP Dance Studio is an independently run studio in Naperville, IL - not a franchise. Founder Paulina Struk is a finalist in the Open to the World Rising Star Rhythm and Open Rhythm Dancesport Championships. The studio also regularly brings in visiting coaches for special sessions.
NP Dance Studio is located at 1320 Illinois Rte 59, #114, Naperville, IL 60563. Open Monday through Friday, 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
New students: 2 private lessons for $60. No registration fee. No membership fee. Just dancing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Latin style should I start with?
For most beginners, Salsa or Bachata are the best entry points - both are beginner-friendly, widely danced socially, and immediately enjoyable. Your instructor will make a specific recommendation in your first lesson.
​
Do I need a partner for lessons?
No. Most students start solo. Our instructors teach both lead and follow roles so you will be confident dancing with any partner.
​
Can I take Latin dance classes to prepare for competition?
Yes. Competition preparation is available across all Latin styles. Our instructors compete regularly and can guide you through the requirements of Latin dancesport in the Chicago, IL area.
​
Do you offer classes for kids?
Yes. NP Dance provides instruction for children of all ages in a safe, nurturing environment. Contact us for current schedules.
​
How do I know which style is right for me?
You do not need to know before your first lesson - that is what the lesson is for. Your instructor will listen to your goals, show you a few options, and make a recommendation based on what you want to get out of dancing. Most students are surprised by how clear the right choice becomes after just one session. And if you change your mind, your lesson plan changes with you.