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WHO WE ARE

Our Story & Passion for Dance at 

Step N Dance Salsabor Tropical

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A Legacy of Rhythm, Community, and Connection

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Step N Dance Salsabor Tropical is more than just a dance studio—it is a family. As one of the pioneering Salsa schools in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County, we are proud to bring our rich history, passion, and expertise to our new home in Ocala, Florida.

Our studio was founded by Tony Duarte, a veteran dancer and instructor with over 25 years of teaching experience. Tony’s extensive background spans Jazz, Hip Hop, Breakdancing, and Ballroom, with a deep-rooted specialty in Latin Dancing. Under his guidance, we have spent decades helping people discover the joy of movement.

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Step Into a Welcoming World

you are looking for an amazing, friendly, and high-energy atmosphere, you have found it. 

At Step N Dance Salsabor Tropical, our instructors and students will welcome you with open arms. 

We offer tailored programs to fit your lifestyle:

  • All Ages: Dedicated classes for adults, teens, and children.
  • Diverse Formats: Energetic Salsa and Bachata group classes.
  • Personalized Care: Private lessons and custom choreography for weddings or special events.

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Our Mission: Building a Healthy Lifestyle & Community

We believe dance has the power to transform lives. Our classes are intentionally designed to support your holistic well-being through two core pillars:

✨ Cultivating Connection & Community

  • Expand Your Social Circle: Our group classes provide an instant community of friendly people who share your interests.
  • Embrace Rich Culture: Dive deep into the beautiful, social traditions rooted in Salsa and Bachata.
  • Enhance Communication: Master the art of partner dancing, which builds trust, teamwork, and empathy. 

 Inspiring Health & Wellness

  • Boost Physical Fitness: Get a fantastic cardiovascular workout that improves your flexibility, balance, and heart health.
  • Sharpen Cognitive Skills: Challenge your brain! Learning dynamic dance sequences keeps your mind sharp and active.
  • Support Mental Health: Shake off stress and anxiety with a natural rush of mood-boosting endorphins. 

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Your Dance Journey Starts Here!

Get off the couch, step onto the floor, and join the fun. We cannot wait to welcome you to the Step N Dance family! 

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WHAT DO STUDENTS SAY ABOUT STEP N DANCE OUR DANCE CLASSES AND 

THE DANCE STUDIO IN GENERAL?

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WHAT DO OUR CLIENTS SAY ABOUT STEP N DANCE SALSABOR TROPICAL?

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1,000 + HAPPY CUSTOMERS

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Truly an awesome place to learn how to dance. I loved every class. The instructors are down to earth, patient, and kind. They teach you at your own pace, and will answer any questions. At first I just wanted to learn how to dance, but coming here at Step N Dance helps me forget about work. I think I found my favorite way to release stress and have fun. I give it five stars because of Tony (Owner/Main Instructor). He truly makes everyone feel welcomed. He's kind, understanding, and has a great sense of humor. His way of teaching encourages students to get passed their comfort zone and try something new. He's the type of teacher that believes in you and believes you can do it. I've adopted his "yes or yes" motto, which reminds me of Yoda's "do or do not, there is no try" I'm glad I found this school. I have much more to learn and looking forward to my next lesson.

Roger Morges

"Awesome"

"Step N Dance is a great place if you want to learn how to dance. The Dance classes have helped me work on other areas of life that I would not have thought about. One of them is that I recovered my sense of sensuality as a woman, which I left behind when I became a mom. Another, is that I can relate to persons more easily, I do not feel people are invading my space. I have recovered my sense of humor, and engage in humorous conversations. Tony has life insights that help you to dance and approach on your life. This is a place to learn with passion. 

I love Step N Dance."

Betty Reyes

"Great Place"

"When I first came down to Florida from New York City, I knew I wanted to continue my dancing classes. I tried a few schools but could not find my niche. Dancing, for me, is freedom - freedom from the ordinary tasks of life, freedom from thinking too much, freedom of my soul, heart and body. I felt nervous when I first walked into Step N Dance Salsabor Tropical Dance Studio. However, there was an aura of genuine warmth, genuine smiles, and some of the loveliest people I have ever met in my life. They are inclusive and invite you in with open arms. It all starts with the owner, of course, Tony Duarte. He is always smiling and very patient when teaching. He will get you dancing in no time at all! This is a no brainer! Come here to learn to dance!"

Darcy J. Weiss

"Genuine"

WHY CHOOSING US?

WHY CHOOSE STEP N DANCE SALSABOR TROPICAL?

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1. Our Proven, Easy-to-Learn System

We set ourselves apart from other studios through a unique, simplified method of instruction. We break down complex movements into easy steps you can implement immediately.

  • For Gentlemen: Master the core fundamentals of clear, confident leading.
  • For Ladies: Learn the art of styling and following techniques with effortless grace.

2. A Stress-Free, Welcoming Environment

Our mission is to provide top-tier dance instruction in a relaxed, comfortable, and friendly atmosphere. We don't believe in rigid, intimidating lessons. We believe in having fun while you learn! It is why we are widely recognized by our community for offering the best dance lessons in the region.

3. We are Ocala's Premier Source for Latin Dance Classes

While you have choices among several dance schools, they are not all the same. We are considered by many as the go-to Ocala Salsa studio for authentic social dancing. Our expert instructors undergo ongoing training to ensure you always receive the highest quality service and experience. Come to us to master:

  • Dynamic Salsa dance classes
  • Smooth Bachata lessons
  • High-energy Merengue classes
  • And a variety of other popular social dances

4. Flexible Classes Tailored to Your Life

Whether you are an experienced dancer looking for fresh patterns, a brand-new beginner, or a couple preparing special choreography for a wedding, we fit your schedule. We offer flexible class options designed around your busy lifestyle.

If you are looking for the best things to do in Ocala, FL, stop searching and start moving! 

We appreciate the opportunity to teach you the beautiful art of dance. 

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FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR

TONY DUARTE

Tony Duarte is the founder and director of Step N Dance Salsabor Tropical, a Latin dance studio helping, with dance instruction, people of all ages to accomplish their dancing goals thru latin dancing. As an inspiring leader and in-demand dance instructor, coach, choreographer, speaker, Tony has helped hundreds of individuals and organizations accomplish their goals through dancing and team building. Tony was an award recipient at the 4th International Miami Salsa Congress 2005, for the contribution and the years he has in helping people through dancing. Tony is considered as one of the best salsa dance instructor and latin dance instructor in Ocala Florida, South Florida Fort Lauderdale, Miami Florida, West Palm Beach and abroad, always striving to pass his knowledge of many years of training and teaching on to others so they can rip all the benefits of dancing.

Don't wait, Start Today!

Decide Now! You will thank us later. Click below to start with your Salsa dance classes or Bachata dance classes. 

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BASED IN OCALA, FLORIDA

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CHILDREN & TEENS GROUP CLASSES

CLASES GRUPALES PARA NINOS Y ADOLESCENTES

Unleash Your Inner Rhythm, Your Salsa and/or Bachata Journey starts Here.

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Picture yourself moving effortlessly, connecting with a partner, and feeling the energy of the music. Our Salsa and Bachata classes are a full-body experience where you'll de-stress, burn calories, and have fun. You'll boost your mood, improve your mental health, and enhance your social life by fostering new connections. Plus, we'll make sure you master the basics and beyond so you can gain the confidence to truly own the dance floor. Dance classes are taught by our experienced dance instructors using the Step N Dance unique method of instruction.

Salsa and Bachata Dance Classes 

In Ocala, Fl

Dance classes availble for all levels. 

Step N Dance Salsabor Tropical Reviews