Get Your Dance On: Salsa in Queens Steps Into Astoria

One of the coolest things about living in Astoria is learning the stories of our neighbors. Everyone you meet has a history: where they came from, what brought them to Queens, and what drives them to make this neighborhood theirs.

Jean Franco Vergaray, the founder of Astoria dance studio Salsa in Queens, is one of those people. Listening to his story and learning about his quest to bring dance classes to Astoria makes you not only want to pay attention, but also get up and attend a salsa class!

Originally from Peru, Jean moved to America with his family when he was thirteen and has called Queens home ever since. He started dancing when he was sixteen years old, and knew immediately that he had found his calling. Now, at twenty-six, he’s officially a business owner, sharing his love of the art form with the community though the new studio Salsa In Queens.

What are the details about this fabulous new studio, you might ask? It’s located at 34-27 Steinway Street, and celebrated its grand opening in mid-January. All levels of dance ability are encouraged to take classes: they offer two different beginner levels, so if you’ve literally never set foot in a studio before, have no fear: there’s a class for you.

If you’re hoping to sign up for your first class, know that they like to keep things welcoming and stress-free. You are not required to arrive with a partner, and comfortable clothes are encouraged.

Another awesome thing about this business? They’re passionate about giving back to the community, hosting parties at the end of each month to benefit local causes. (Their most recent party gave back to local Autism Awareness groups, and they’re excited to continue to give back!)

You can find them on their website here, on Facebook here, and on Instagram here.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up for a class today, and get those feet movin’ and hips shakin’!