In Lak'ech Dance Studio

- 2885 Ettie St, Oakland, CA 94608

Introduction / Overview

In Lak'ech Dance Studio, located in the dynamic city of Oakland, is a truly unique and transformative space for the Bay Area dance community. More than just a dance school, it is a dedicated and safe haven for queer, transgender, and allied dancers, providing a space where Afro-Latin dance becomes a tool for healing, celebration, and unapologetic self-expression. The name itself, "In Lak'ech," is a Mayan concept meaning "you are my other me," a philosophy that guides the studio's commitment to community, kindness, and respect. It's a place where everyone is treated with love and is free to be their authentic self.

Founded by professional dancers who are also world champions, In Lak'ech Dance Studio offers top-tier instruction in a variety of Latin dance styles, including Bachata, Salsa, Merengue, and Kizomba. Despite the high level of expertise, the studio maintains an incredibly approachable and judgment-free atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, they were learning from pros "all along," a testament to the fact that the instructors' accolades are secondary to their dedication to teaching and creating a supportive environment. The studio challenges traditional norms, particularly with its emphasis on breaking down gendered dance roles, allowing anyone to lead or follow, which is a breath of fresh air for many dancers in the community.

Beyond its weekly classes, In Lak'ech is a vital community hub, known for hosting special events like the monthly Queer Sabor dance parties and the annual Queer Latin Dance Festival. These events are integral to the studio's mission of increasing visibility and creating a safer space for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals within the broader Latin dance community. The studio is more than a place to learn steps; it is a movement that uses dance as a form of social activism and community building.

Location and Accessibility

In Lak'ech Dance Studio is located at 2885 Ettie St, Oakland, CA 94608, USA. This address places it in a part of Oakland that is accessible to dancers from all over the Bay Area. While the entrance might be "hard to spot" at first glance, as one reviewer pointed out, the welcoming environment inside more than makes up for it.

A significant practical advantage of this location is the ample and "plenty of free parking out front and in the neighborhood." For anyone who has navigated the challenges of parking in a major city like Oakland, this is a major highlight that makes attending classes and events much more convenient. The studio is situated in a way that minimizes the typical urban parking hassle, allowing patrons to focus on their dancing rather than their commute.

The studio’s commitment to accessibility goes beyond parking. While specific physical accessibility features like wheelchair ramps are not detailed in the provided information, the studio’s core philosophy is built on making dance accessible to everyone. The community-centric, judgment-free atmosphere and the focus on welcoming all identities and skill levels make it mentally and emotionally accessible. The studio’s broader vision is to create spaces for healing and expression, which inherently makes it an accessible space for people who may have felt excluded from other dance environments.

Services Offered

• Drop-in Classes: Regular weekly classes in Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, and other Latin dance styles for individuals who want to attend on a flexible schedule.
• Beginner and Intermediate Series: Structured multi-week programs designed to take students from foundational steps to social dancing proficiency.
• Private Lessons: One-on-one sessions with professional instructors to provide personalized attention and rapid progress.
• Queer Sabor Dance Parties: Monthly social events that create a celebratory and inclusive atmosphere for queer, BIPOC, and allied dancers to practice their skills and connect with the community.
• Choreography & Performance Teams: Opportunities for students to join performance teams to train and perform at Latin dance festivals and events.
• Social Activism through Dance: The academy uses dance as a tool for social change, promoting visibility and healing within the queer community.

Features / Highlights

• Expert & World-Champion Instructors: The studio's founders and maestras are highly accomplished professional dancers who have won multiple international dance competitions.
• Radically Inclusive Community: The studio is celebrated for being an intentional, welcoming space for all identities, with a focus on BIPOC and queer dancers.
• Non-Gendered Dance Roles: A unique feature that allows anyone to learn to lead or follow, breaking down traditional gendered expectations in partner dancing.
• Free and Convenient Parking: The availability of plenty of free parking is a significant practical highlight, making it easier for people to attend.
• Community-Focused Events: The studio regularly hosts events like the Queer Sabor parties and a major annual festival, creating a vibrant social hub.
• Judgment-Free Zone: The atmosphere is praised for its kindness, respect, and lack of judgment, which is crucial for beginners and those new to social dancing.
• Payment Flexibility: The studio accepts major forms of electronic payment, including credit cards and debit cards.

Contact Information

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

Phone: (415) 314-6364

Mobile Phone: +1 415-314-6364

What is worth choosing

For anyone in the California region, especially those in the Bay Area, looking for a dance studio that is truly different, In Lak'ech Dance Studio is a must-visit. What makes this studio stand out is its deep commitment to creating a safe and affirming space. In a world where dance communities can sometimes be exclusionary, In Lak'ech has made it its mission to be a welcoming haven for all. As one reviewer eloquently stated, it is a place for "all identities," with a strong focus on uplifting BIPOC and queer communities. This is not just a marketing slogan; it is a core value that permeates every class, event, and interaction.

The quality of instruction is a major draw. Learning from professional, award-winning dancers provides a level of expertise that is second to none. The instructors are not only technically skilled but also possess a gift for teaching, fostering a supportive environment where students can progress from knowing nothing to confidently dancing at social events. The studio's innovative approach to gender-neutral dance roles is a game-changer for many, allowing for a more fluid and comfortable learning experience.

Finally, the sense of community at In Lak'ech is what keeps people coming back, with some driving "literally from hours away" just to be a part of it. The combination of high-quality lessons, a vibrant social scene, and a genuine commitment to inclusivity makes this studio a powerful and unique force in the Bay Area. By choosing In Lak'ech Dance Studio, you are not just learning to dance; you are joining a movement that celebrates diversity, fosters healing, and builds a truly magical community.

In Lak'ech Dance Studio

2885 Ettie St, Oakland, CA 94608, USA