Whether your preference is for salsa dancing or sleepovers, the Howard Assembly Room is the place to be this summer as the central Leeds music venue prepares for two very different HAR Lates.

A Night in the Havana, with co-promoter DJ Lubi, gets the dancing underway on Saturday 24 August. Fifteen-piece Latin orchestra Timba Británica, led by Tristan Butler, make the journey from London to Leeds, where they will be joined by Grammy award-winning vocalist Mayito Rivera. Together, they plan to introduce everyone to the irresistible rhythms of modern Cuban salsa. This is a rare chance to discover at first hand why Butler is one of the UK’s most sought-after percussionists and why the legendary Rivera has become one of the most respected singers in the Cuban music scene, earning him the nickname ‘Poet of the Rumba’.

Before the music begins, an informal workshop with go-to Cuban dance instructor Yersin Rivas will guide beginners and experienced dancers alike through the salsa moves guaranteed to impress on the dancefloor. After the live act, Yersin returns for a DJ set, which will see everyone through to midnight with the hottest Cuban vinyl around. With Kino’s mixologist on hand to serve mojitos throughout the evening, there is no better place to get a taste Cuba without leaving the country.

The tempo changes completely on Friday 20 September when the Howard Assembly Room will again remain open until midnight with the venue’s very first Slumber Party. A chance to head back in time to the 1990s, the relaxed vibe will start from the moment people enter the room with friendship bracelet kits being handed out, cocktails to enjoy, and a screening of 10 Things I Hate about You, the classic Shakespeare-inspired teen rom-com.

After the film, twin choreographers Melissa and Martina Gumbs will liven things up a little by teaching everyone how to dance in iconic sleepover style – no experience necessary. From 10.30pm to midnight, the fabulous Miss Verry Cherry takes to the stage with a set of ultimate ‘90s and ‘00s hits, from Britney to Destiny’s Child. The audience is actively encouraged to come in their pyjamas or nostalgic nineties gear to help everyone get in the groove.

Tickets for HAR are available from www.operanorth.co.uk.