5.0 ★ (8 reviews)
Photo Gallery
About AContra
AContra is Melbourne's home of Casino, the energetic Cuban style of salsa, and its partner form Rueda de Casino danced in a circle. Run by a tight-knit team of casineros, it has built a reputation as one of the city's friendliest and most authentic Cuban dance schools, where the emphasis is as much on community and connection as it is on footwork.
Classes are structured across clear levels so absolute beginners and seasoned dancers alike have somewhere to grow. The welcoming atmosphere is the thing people remember most, with students happily travelling from well outside the city to join in. Beyond weekly classes, AContra brings the culture to life through performance courses, private lessons, live-music nights, socials and community events.
No partner and no booking are needed to drop in, which makes it an easy first step for anyone curious about Latin dance. If you are in the Melbourne CBD and want to move, sweat a little and have a genuinely good time while learning a craft rooted in Cuban tradition, this is a school built around fun, inclusivity and great teaching.
Classes & Programs
Beginner (Level 1) Casino / Cuban salsaImprover (Level 2)Intermediate (Level 3)Rueda de CasinoPerformance coursesPrivate lessonsLive music nights, socials and community events
Trainers & Coaches
Maxine Buxton Founding member / teacher +
A founding member of AContra who trained with Cuban dancers both locally and in Cuba, contributing to a team with over 30 years of combined teaching experience.
Akshar Apte Founding member / teacher +
A founding member of AContra trained by Cuban dancers locally and in Cuba, part of a team with over 30 years of combined teaching experience.
Facilities & Amenities
Studio space (Robles, Level 1) Yoga/mat studio floor
Who It's For
Total beginners to Cuban salsaExperienced social dancersPeople wanting a fun social outing and communitySingles (no partner required)
Membership & Pricing
Single class $18
Two or more classes $30
10-class pass Discounted multi-class pass available
* Prices from the studio's website and may change — confirm before joining.
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a partner to join? +
No. All classes are casual with no partner required, and no booking is needed.
Is it suitable for complete beginners? +
Yes. Classes run across three levels starting with a 7:00pm Beginner (Level 1) class, and reviewers describe it as excellent for total beginners and experienced dancers alike.
How much does a class cost? +
A single class is $18, two or more classes are $30, and discounted 10-class passes are available.
What styles do you teach? +
The focus is Casino (Cuban salsa) and Rueda de Casino, alongside performance courses, private lessons and social events.
Pricing Information
Contact for pricing
Contact for pricing
Estimated starting price
• Pricing varies by plan and commitment
• Casual day passes often available
• Ask about free trials and student rates
Gym Information
Location Type
N/A
Style
group fitness
Google Rating
5.0 ★
Location
VIC
What to Know
- Arrive 10–15 min early on your first visit
- Bring a towel, water bottle and clean shoes
- Check timetables and book classes ahead
Nearby Gyms
Gyms in Melbourne
AContra is one of VIC's fitness studios, offering professional training services for all fitness levels. Located in 277-283 Queensberry St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia, this studio provides high-quality training and fitness services for both beginners and experienced athletes.
As part of the Melbourne fitness community, AContra contributes to the local fitness scene. Whether you're looking for personal training, group classes, or specialist coaching, this studio offers a professional and welcoming environment for your next workout.