FAQs

About XS

  • XS Latin is a dance club based in Cambridge, specialising in latin formation dancing. The club has three teams (A, B and C) and our training and lessons cater for all dance levels. All three teams compete nationally and internationally.

  • Latin formation dancing is when teams of 6-8 couples perform a routine whilst moving in patterns and tight synchronisation. The music and dances performed switch between the five International Latin American dances: Cha cha cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive.

  • The club was named ‘XS’ to celebrate its heritage; many of its founder members were ex-students of Cambridge University. Over 20 years later the club still trains and has lessons in Cambridge, although now we have a diverse membership welcoming dancers of all backgrounds, levels, and locations!

  • David Mallabone is XS Latin Cambridge head coach, and one of the leading formation coaches in the UK. He is fully ISTD qualified and competed at the highest level as a professional dancer. David and assistant coach Diane work with each team, and each individual dancer. With over 20 years’ experience, David and Diane create an atmosphere of inclusion, growth and dedication in every training session.

  • The A team trains on Mondays and Wednesdays, the B team trains on Thursdays, and the C team trains on Wednesdays. Training is normally at venues near Cambridge. Extra lessons are also available. Both teams include many dancers who travel from outside Cambridge, and we arrange lifts to/from the station for them.

  • All three XS teams aim to compete 4-6 times a year. We also perform shows at corporate and charity events. Our usual competitions are: UK Formation Championships (mid May); British Open Championships (late May/early June); WDC European Champs (April); WDSF European Champs (May); British National Championships (November); World Latin Formation Championships (early December); Donaupokal (mid December).

Joining XS

  • No, during training sessions the coaches will swap people around giving them a chance to dance with different people. Partnerships for the competitive teams are then decided by the coaching staff in the best interests of the team.

  • Something comfortable that allows you to move freely. Dance shoes are not essential when you start, but if you keep dancing and competing with us you will need to buy some as recommended by the coaching team.

  • The first two training sessions are free, and a fun way to meet the team and have a dance. By coming along you are not committing to join the team. If you enjoy it and want to be part of XS Latin, it costs just £37.50 per month for B/C Team and £50 for A team (plus £12.50 student discount). The A team trains on Mondays and Wednesdays, the B team trains on Thursdays, and the C team trains on Wednesdays. We are a competitive dance club so dancers committing to train with us will be expected to attend training regularly.

  • The B and C teams are usually for beginner to intermediate dancers, and A team is for pre-champ and open amateur dancers. But to start with we ask all dancers to come to a B/C team session so you can see what it’s like, and so we can work out the best team for your level.

  • Don’t worry, many XS dancers are not based in Cambridge! Let us know you're coming to training from outside Cambridge and we will be in touch with train details and can even organise a lift for you from the train station to training.

  • XS Latin Cambridge welcomes all dancers from the age of 15 and over. There is no upper age limit (we have several dancers over 40), but training does require a basic level of fitness. For dancers younger than 15, please contact us in advance.

Sponsoring or Hiring XS

  • If you or your company are interested in supporting XS Latin Cambridge, one of the UK's most successful latin formation teams and being promoted across our social media channels, please contact us.

  • XS Latin Cambridge regularly perform and teach at a wide variety of occasions, from corporate events to prestigious balls and charity functions. We ensure that every performance is unique and meets whatever the requirements for your event might be. If you or your company are interested in hiring us, please get in touch.