Dance Fundamentals
A playful first step into dance. Young dancers build rhythm, coordination and confidence while learning simple folk and square dances.
Westchester, Los Angeles · Since 1950
Dancing our way around the world.
A non-profit youth dance troupe teaching kids in kindergarten through 12th grade the folk dances of the world, from square dancing to Bollywood.
About us
A unique and entertaining way to learn about the world
The Westchester Lariats give children a unique, educational experience through dance: international folk dances, American square and line dances, Greek, Bollywood, and lively era dances like Swing, the Charleston and the 50s.
We welcome dancers of every skill level. As a courtesy, new students are invited to take their first class free. Just get in touch first so we can suggest the best class for your child.
- International folk
- American square
- Line dance
- Greek
- Bollywood
- Swing
- Charleston
- 50s
- Cumbia
- Irish
- Hawaiian
- Israeli
Weekly classes · Mondays Grades K–2 Grades 3–5 Grades 6–12
Three levels, one big dance family
Junior Lariats
Dancers learn international folk, American square and line dances, and era dances like Swing and the Charleston, and perform at shows and local events.
Performing Lariats
Our performing troupe learns the Lariats’ long-standing repertoire, choreographs original dances, builds leadership skills, and travels on summer goodwill tours.
- 76years of dance in Westchester
- 2,000+public performances by 1974 alone
- 50states visited on summer tours
- 100+dances in the repertoire
Summer tour
Goodwill tours, near and far
Each summer the Performing Lariats are invited on a one- or two-week goodwill tour. Dancers and chaperones perform along the way and visit national parks, historic monuments, stunning architecture and amazing food. Tours have gone as close as San Diego and as far as Paris and Budapest.
What's next
Upcoming events
A Holiday Stroll Around the World
The Lariats perform twice at the final Westchester Saturday Stroll of the year, a holiday marketplace showing how the holidays are celebrated around the world through food, games, crafts and cultural activities. Come stroll, shop, and cheer on our dancers!
Book the Lariats
Bring the dancers to your event
The Lariats perform at parades, festivals and community celebrations. Contact us to check availability.
