• Dance Time With Friends

    We make learning Ballroom and Latin dancing easy and fun

    About UsClasses

Why Choose Dance Time With Friends

At Dance Time With Friends (DTWF), we make learning Ballroom and Latin dancing easy and fun. We offer a wide range of dances to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced student, learning is at your own pace.

Our goal is to help you learn the dance skills needed for social dancing – from the office event, holiday party or night out on the town, we’ll help you shine on the dance floor!

And if you’re looking for choreography for a wedding “first dance”, cotillion or other special event, or maybe you’re just looking for a friendly place to dance and socialize, you’ve come to the right place – Dance Time With Friends.

Experienced Trainers

The husband-and-wife team of Ed and Luming de la Cruz has been dancing for 21 years now and are highly qualified to teach American and International Style Latin and Ballroom dances.

Structured Teaching System

Dance levels are designed for Beginners, Intermediate, and Advance. A well-crafted syllabus covers each level consisting of 10 dance patterns.

Spacious Facility

Clean and spacious, 2690 sq. ft. dance area with wooden floors and mirrored walls specifically designed and built for ballroom dancing.

Latest Dance Music

Ed’s huge collection of CD’s consist of hard-to-find selections and the latest in dance music.

Comfortable Location

Accessible from major highways and there is ample parking.

Meet New Friends

A fun place to meet interesting people.

Choose Your Dance Style!

Rumba

Rumba is universally recognized as the dance of love. It is danced to slow, sensual music with a Latin beat and features a hip action known as “Cuban Motion.”

Tango

American Style Tango features sharp movements, head snaps, and a cat-like and stealthy foot action. The music is in 4/4 time and has a marching rhythm.

Waltz

The name ‘Waltz’ comes from an old German word walzen, meaning to roll, turn, or glide. Waltz was the first dance in which the man and lady danced with body contact, and was considered quite scandalous in its day.

Jive

Jive is similar to a triple-step East Coast Swing. Jive, however, is much faster, arguably more elegant (and less earthy), and uses a lot of knee and hip action.

Night Club Two-Step

It is a slow, romantic, floaty dance that features rock steps and long glides across the dance floor.

… and many more!

Who are we?

Ed de la Cruz

Luming de la Cruz

The Dance Time with Friends, Inc. (DTWF) dance studio, which is owned and operated by Ed and Luming de la Cruz, is located at 6889 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles, IL 60714. When students walk in the spacious dance studio – 2690sq.ft. of wooden floors, and mirrored walls – they are welcomed with warm smiles. The environment is friendly, supportive, and professional.

Ed and Luming wanted a dance studio that truly represents the main objective of quality and finesse in social dancing and ultimately for their students to develop self-confidence when they set foot on the dance floor. Ed and Luming have studied privately with renowned World Champion Nadia Eftedal and U.S. dance champions, such as Ron Montez, Bob Powers and Julia Gorchakova, Brian and Susan Puttock, David and Carrie Kloss, Victor and Heather Smith-Veyrasset, and Chris Morris. To continue validating their dancing skills and techniques, Ed and Luming, sought the coaching expertise of Teresa Shiry, a well-known national dance champion based in Torrance, California. In addition to the Ballroom and Latin dancing coaches, they also studied under world renowned Argentine Tango Masters Diego Di Falco, Carolina Zokalski, and Florencia Taccetti. Ed and Luming continue to learn from the best dancers in the world and love sharing the knowledge and skill gained with all their students.

Ed and Luming started dancing later in life and as a secondary profession, but this allows them to relate to new students as they strive to learn how to dance. To the delight of their students, Ed and Luming have a caring and supportive attitude, not at all critical of mistakes or when students are slow to learn — most of all, they are very patient. Ed and Luming want to share not only their knowledge of dancing, but the joy dancing can bring. Dancing is not about memorizing steps, it’s about dancing to know oneself, to connect with your partner, and together for that moment creating something so beautiful for everyone to see.

Ed and Luming, as well as their topnotch students are frequently invited to perform at various social and civic functions.

Classes

Regular Classes

5:00 – 6:00 pm

6:00 – 7:00 pm

7:00 – 8:00 pm

8:00 – 9:00 pm

9:00 – 10:00 pm

- Monday -

  • (none)

  • Nightclub 2 Steps

  • Cha Cha Cha Choreograph

  • American Rumba

  • Merengue

- Tuesday -

  • (none)

  • American Foxtrot

  • American Tango

  • Styling & Techniques

  • American Viennese Waltz

- Wednesday -

  • (none)

  • International Rumba

  • Argentine Tango

  • Dancercise

  • International Tango

- Thursday -

  • (none)

  • Bolero

  • American Tango

  • Hustle

  • American Waltz

- Friday -

  • (none)

  • Swing

  • International Samba

  • Salsa

  • Jive

- Saturday -

  • International Cha Cha Cha

  • West Coast Swing

  • Sat. Dance Party (open to public)

  • Sat. Dance Party (open to public)

  • Sat. Dance Party (open to public)

  • RESERVATION IS NEEDED FOR THE DANCE PARTY
  • Studio Closed – Nov. 26, 2020 (Thanksgiving)

    – Dec. 24 & 25, 2020 (Christmas)
    – Dec. 31, 2020 & Jan. 1, 2021 (New Year)

Open also to public but needs a reservation a week before the party.

Pricing & Policies

 Pay As You GoPackage of 4Package of 8Package of 12Package of 16Package of 20
Private Lesson
(1-2 people)
$ 75$ 277$ 543$ 802$ 1,062$ 1,305
Semi-Private
(3-4 people)
$ 88$ 301$ 592$ 882$ 1,161$ 1,445
Group Lesson
(per person)
$ 19$ 65$ 124$ 176$ 228$ 280
Dancercise
(package of 12)
$ 84
Saturday Dance Party
(per person)
$ 15

Policies

Classes

  • Group Classes: minimum 6 people – anything less will be cancelled
  • Semi-Private Lessons: 3-4 people
  • Private Lessons: 1-2 people

Payment Methods: 2 Options

Pay-As-You-Go and/or Package Purchases. Pre-registration is required for all classes.

  • Unlike other dance studios, Dance Time With Friends (DTWF) does not require long term, binding contracts. We offer package lessons in 4, 8, 12, 16 or 20. Prices are subject to change. See Pricing table.
  • DTWF accepts cash and personal checks. Checks are payable to
    Dance Time With Friends, Inc.
  • There will be a $30.00 fee for any returned checks.

Pricing Policy

  • Payments must be made in full upon registration or by the first day of the class.
  • The number of weeks commences on the first day of the lesson and
    includes lessons and excused make-up classes.

Cancellations

24-hour notice is required for cancellation of ANY lesson. If you fail to show up without advanced notice or if you cancel within 24 hours of your scheduled class time, you forfeit the lesson.

Rewards

  • If you refer an individual or a couple who:
    • Takes a package of private lessons, you will earn one (1)
      private lesson that you must use within six (6) months.
    • Enrolls in a group class, you will receive a $10 coupon.
    • Enrolls in “Dancercise”, you’ll receive a $10 coupon.
  • Students who take PRIVATE lessons will receive 2 raffle tickets
    per person; eg. a couple will receive four (4) raffle tickets and a
    single student will receive two (2) raffle tickets*
  • Students who take a GROUP lesson and those in the “Dancercise”
    will receive one (1) raffle ticket per attendance*

*Drawings are held every quarter.

Use of Video Cameras

In general, a video camera is not allowed in group classes because it
distracts and causes uneasiness to other students. However, in a
private class, a video camera is allowed. The owner/user of a video
camera shall be responsible for any personal injury, damage to
property, liability or claims resulting from any accidents due to such
equipment.

Music Policy

DTWF strives hard to provide you with the latest championship
Ballroom and Latin music for your dancing pleasure.
Please do not ask
for copies since it is against the law to copy music for resale and/or for
free distribution.

Saturday Social Dance Party Dress Code

Smart casual — no jeans, shorts and sweat suits. Open to the public but RESERVATION REQUIRED: $15/person, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.
Refreshments included.

Events

All events are open to non-DTWF students, except for the Summer Picnic and Student Appreciation Christmas Party. All other events need advance reservation by calling (847) 529-4670 or by email @ dancetimewf@yahoo.com

What Our Students Say

We have been dancing socially in the Chicago area for about 10 years and discovered Luming & Ed de la Cruz, Dance Time With Friends in Niles by accident about 3 years ago. From the first visit, we were very impressed not only with their high standard of dancing, especially the latin numbers but also how warm, friendly and courteous every body is.

Luming & Ed de la Cruz are accomplished teachers and dancers in their own right in all the techniques as evidenced by the general dancing. Both Luming & Ed take the time to help their students understand the many different dances and lead by example and have a lot of fun doing so. This is apparent by the distances many of the students and guests travel to attend the dance parties and lessons.

Ed’s library of music is extensive and he has a great sound system. His choice of music literally draws the people onto the dance floor. It’s also as much fun to watch all the dancers. There are also a number of hosts at the Saturday night parties, so everybody gets a chance to dance. Even if you have two left feet, or by yourself, you will feel very much at home at Dance Time With Friends.

Saturday night parties are also a lot of fun because there is usually a birthday celebrant and everybody sings “Happy Birthday” There is also usually a small buffet available.

We would award Luming and Ed’s Dance Time With Friends a big “10” for warm friendly people, great dancers,and lots of fun.

Linda & Tom HammertonGlenview, IL

Would you like to bring joy into your life while becoming the best dancer you can be? If yes, then Dance Time with Friends is the place for you.

Personally, I have found the DTWF studio to be a positive and encouraging environment. The students and the teachers, Ed and Luming, are welcoming, uplifting and respectful. As teachers, Ed and Luming, are experienced, lovingly patient and deeply passionate about dance. And they are passionate about sharing their love of dance with others.

Recently, I learned the American Rumba. Luming and Ed brought new life to what I thought this dance of love was about. I learned at a truer and more precise level than I ever have about footwork, arm styling, Latin hip motion, technique, application, execution, and even the expression of music and dance from within myself . . . All these intricate and “artistic details” brought a natural beauty to the American Rumba. (I couldn’t believe my progress!)

I truly feel great joy and satisfaction when I learn just one basic dance step well. I can learn each step well at DTWF, because it is taught the right way. No shortcuts . . . no hurry-throughs. Ed and Luming are there to help you be the best dancer you can be right where you are – one beautiful step at a time.

Mary J.

Dancing is one of my passions in life with golf, tennis and travel. Being a single mother for 24 years I was intimidated to take lessons alone but in August, 2010, I took the courage to join Arthur Murray Dance Studio near my house. It was good place for a single woman like me but the fee was outrageously too high and I felt I was held back and not challenged to reach my potentials.

After 13 months I left and joined Dance Time With Friends. The fees are very affordable but the studio has a special asset which cannot be duplicated. The couple and also the teachers have the passion for dancing. Their desire to share what they have learned studying from several dance masters and champions exudes! They teach from their hearts which is a rarity to studio owners who want to make themselves rich. Their attention to details in teaching is exemplary. At 68 years old, they make dancing fun and great way to exercise my mind as well as my physical body.

Ana Anita MoralGlenview, IL

We are a couple who have been self-employed for over 20 yrs. and can easily make an excuse of being so busy to take dance lessons , but we never did. Dancing became a part of our lives.

There’s so much positive to say about DTWF. First of all, since we started in DTWF , we have built numerous valuable friendships , foremost of our close relationship with our patient, understanding and talented dance instructors , Ed and Luming de la Cruz. We have been dancing for a number of yrs. , but we never imagined we can do the complicated patterns of Advanced Rumba,Samba, Bolero,Cha-Cha,Tango which are both available in American and International Styles . People are in awe with the hand styling and dance techniques . These are all possible because of the diligent, patient teaching and coaching of Ed and Luming de la Cruz. They’re so generous in sharing what they learn from the other professional coaches.

Lately of course, we started learning the Argentine

Tango. We become so rich in culture, I should say , because we learn so much of the dances of other countries.

Shannon & Phil Reid

It was five years ago when my wife and I had our first ballroom dance lesson from DTWF. Because of the friendly atmosphere at the studio, we’ve kept coming back regularly for the dance lessons and practice nights. Dancing has added excitement to our lives. Aside from improving our dancing skills, we also improved mentally, physically and socially. If you are considering learning to dance or want to brush up on it, try Dance Time with Friends. There is nothing to lose. You will be surprised at how much fun and how easy it is to learn how to ballroom dance at DTWF.

Dottie & Jake ReyesMorton Grove, IL

It’s been my dream ever since to be able to dance, I was looking for a place before where someone can teach us, Albert and myself, the right steps, moves and techniques and it was an answered prayer, we were lead to Dance Time With Friends. At first it was overwhelming, when we saw the veteran dancers, they are really goood! But because we have excellent teachers, Luming and Ed, now, I’m proud to say I can dance! I can move my hips,and I can raise my hands with styles. We are blessed to have teachers like them. We are like one family with the same interest and passion which is dancing! More power to Luming and Ed, and praying for their good health, strength and energy to teach us, and more students to come. Lastly, we love you and care for you. With your patience and dedications to your students, the gala every year is a success. Congratulations and looking forward for more years of gala events.

Estrella Carcia

Frequently Asked Questions

What safety guidelines do you implement during the pandemic?

DTWF have implemented the following guidelines in an effort to help stop the spread of the virus and keep the students and instructors safe.

  1. Reservations will be required before you can enter the studio for lessons and other events.
  2. Temperature check will be conducted before entering the studio using a touchless thermometer.
  3. Everyone must wear a mask (while inside the studio) and has the option to wear a face shield in addition to the mask. Face masks that have a valve and neck gaiters are NOT acceptable.
  4. Hand sanitizer will be at the foyer and must be used upon entry into/exit from the studio. Hand sanitizer will also be available at every corner of the studio.
  5. No physical greetings (hugs, handshakes, kissing).
  6. Bring a regular partner because there will be no rotations.
  7. Single students must be willing to learn alone.
  8. Dance instructors will be wearing masks and shields at all times and will not be partnering with students in order to maintain physical distancing; this applies during lessons and events.
  9. The studio will be cleaned and sanitized daily and high touch areas will be regularly wiped down (sanitized) between lessons.
  10. Capacity will be limited based upon guidelines from the CDC and State of Illinois.
  11. Buffets will be eliminated from the Saturday Dance Party and events.
  12. We ask that you stay home if not feeling well, are sick, or knowingly have come in contact with someone with Covid-19.
  13. If you have returned to the Chicagoland area from locations experiencing a surge in Covid-19 cases, we ask that you please follow the Illinois Department of Health (link: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/coronavirus/travel-guidance) guidelines for quarantine and refrain from coming to the studio.
  14. Guidelines will be posted at the entrance of the studio.

Covid-19 Warning

An inherent risk of exposure to Covid-19 exists in any public place where people are present. Covid-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Disease and Control and Prevention (link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronaravirus/2019-nCoV/index.html), senior citizens and guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable.

  • By visiting Dance Time With Friends, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to Covid-19 and therefore must be willing to sign a waiver form.

Do I need to sign a long term contract in order to join?

There are no long term binding contracts at Dance Time With Friends, you decide how many classes you want to take. We offer different price packages to fit your needs.

Do I need a partner to learn how to dance?

  • We have a group class every Monday night from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm. With partners and/or without partners, all are welcomed. You just have to be willing to learn your dance patterns alone.
  • We also have “Dancercise” (workout using latin dance steps) every Wednesday night from 8:00 – 9:00 pm. No need to have a partner.

What do I need to wear?

Simply wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

Do you choreograph dances for special events?

We can choreograph dances for any kind of event that you might have. People most commonly request to learn unique dance choreography for weddings, cotillions, anniversaries, and birthdays.

How long will it take me to be good?

The key is being consistent in classes and practicing. We’ve had students who have never danced before, show incredible progress in only after a week. While others took their time and improved considerably after a couple of months. . In the end, everyone can progress at the speed they feel comfortable with.

I really don’t have a place to practice at home, where can I work on my dancing?

Every Saturday night from 7:00pm – 10:00pm is dance practice/party. All this for only $15 per person. Our Saturday night dance party is open to the public. Light refreshments is served.

Didn’t find the answer? Send us mail!

Contact

  • (847) 529-4670

  • (847) 966-1671

  • dancetimewf@yahoo.com

  • 6889 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles, IL 60714

Dance Time With Friends reopens September 1, 2020 in a new studio location.

6889 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles, IL 60714
Phone: (847) 529-4670 or (847) 966-1671

We’ve implemented new safety guidelines based on the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention and State of Illinois that may help prevent the spread of the virus. See our FAQs below.

Welcome back!
Luming & Ed
Dance Time With Friends