Salsa Dancing News and Updates

Hi folks. More on the West Coast Salsa Congress 2006.

Day 3 - Wednesday 23rd May 2006.

1. Santa Monica Beach Party

So it is now day 3 in LA, the City for Salsa in the USA and I have done no Salsa and for that matter not even seen any Salseros or Salseras yet. What the hell is going on? This certainly was not my plan. From my last blog you know the reasons why this is. Anyway there is still 5 days to go and I am determined to make up for this.

The next thing on the Agenda Salsawise is the Beach Party in Santa Monica from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. So a chance to see a bit more of LA before that. I decided to explore Santa Monica for a few hours in the morning. I looked at the map in my Guide to LA. It was quite a long way, a bit longer than going to Downtown LA. However I was now used to driving the car on the right hand side of the road (try driving on the left and see what happens) and there were only two roads (not the Freeway) to get to Santa Monica. So I was pretty confident of getting there easily.

After driving for about 45 minutes (stopping only once to ask directions, an improvement to the previous 2 days), I parked on Santa Monica Beach after first finding myself on the Pacific Coast Highway (think Freeway but a bit smaller) in the process of looking for a parking place (it's annoying when you find yourself on an unfamiliar stretch of road when you are looking for some place and the cars behind are moving at 40 - 60 mph. This is the speed I had to drive before I could turn off to check where I was). It is now 12.00 pm. The Beach Party starts at 1:00 pm. Time to at least see some of Santa Monica before the party starts. I planned to go about 2:00 pm. I decided to explore 2 areas of Santa Monica before I went to the Beach Party. I started to walk toward the Santa Monica Pier. However it took some time to walk there (it looks a lot shorter on the maps. It certainly is true when everyone told me you need a car in LA) and I did not have time to explore these areas. So when I got towards the Pier area I went to the local library to look on the net to find out the exact location of the Beach Party (Santa Monica Beach is quite Long) and luckily I had walked toward the party location. So it was not far to go (although I was parked a long way from it).

I walked toward the Beach and heard some music. It was indeed Salsa music. There was a couple dancing and about 10 -12 people sitting or standing around. It was now nearly 2:00 pm and the party had not started yet. I decided to have some liquid and solid refreshment nearby and then go back to the dancing area. However by the time I bought my refreshment and sat down to eat more people started dancing and before I finished eating the party was in full swing. I ate very quickly and decided to join them.

At last some Salsa! This is why I came to LA! The sun was shining. There were about 10 couples dancing. Most of the dancers were very good. They were mainly dancing "On 1" but I noticed another lady (I found out her name was Stephanie from Alaska) was dancing "On 2". I took some video shots of my favourite dancers. I then started dancing with a lady from New Zealand. We were dancing "On 1". She could not dance "On 2" but wanted to learn. I then found out she brought over a group of kids (from ages 6 - 16 I think) and they were performing at the Salsa Congress (as it turned out this group was one of the highlights of the Salsa Congress ). A group of 40 came from New Zealand including the parents. They had been saving for 18 months to come to the Congress and some of them had never left the country before or even been on a plane. What dedication.

I then became courageous and started asking people to dance. I danced (On 2) with the lady from Alaska. I then noticed 2 people from London who I see at the clubs in London (one was Larisa of GoSalsa who was performing with someone but he could not get a visa) and I had a dance with her. There were about 10 people who I know or see from London including Paul Young who came to the Salsa Congress . Amazing. However it is a long way and we do have lots of Congresses in the UK and Europe with more or less the same artists. It is much cheaper and a lot less travelling.

The party was now in full swing. I had a lot of fun dancing with lots of people from LA, Washington DC, Alaska, New Zealand and the UK ( I made a point of asking everyone where they were from). I was now feeling at home. I took some more video shots and after a bit more dancing I left to retrieve my car. I felt extremely satisfied with my day's Salsaing and there was still the Welcome Party to come tonight.

2. Marriott Pre Congress Welcome Party

This was starting at about 9:00 pm at the Marriott Hotel, the main hotel location for the Salsa Congress . I went there previously to find out the exact location (as I would be staying there from Thursday 25th May onwards), so was confident of finding it even at night. It was only about 5 minutes or so from my present hotel.

I got there about 10:00 pm and it was pretty quiet. There were not that many people and about one or two couples were on the dance floor. I did not know anyone so that made it more awkward. However a lot more people started to dance, then the lady from New Zealand came and asked me to dance. So I danced 2 numbers with her and was soon pretty warmed up. I then got into the swing of things (and so did every one else) and danced with people from Switzerland, Germany, New York and LA. This also the time you see the flashy dancers dancing to the crowd and cameras. A few were however very good and one turned out to be one of the star performers of the Salsa Congress . He was either from Peru or Mexico and he was a fantastic dancer.

Anyway I danced until the end which was 2:00 am the next morning. I had a very good day and night and this was a great primer for things to come over the next 4 days.

Tomorrow - Changing hotels, registration at the Salsa Congress and the first Congress night.

Aubrey

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02-06-2006 9:06 pm - West Coast Salsa Congress in LA - Part 3

Hi Folks. More on the West Coast Salsa Congress.

Day 4 - Thursday 25th May 2006.

1. Changing Hotels

Wow! After yesterday and last night I was beginning to feel better. The first two days were barren of any Salsa although I did get a sense of the city after driving around in circles and practice with driving on the right hand side (Wrong side. Ha!ha!) of the road. So it was not all bad. But going to the Santa Monica Beach Party and the Marriott Welcome party put me back on track.

Today I am to move hotels to the Marriott where I will spend the next 4 days. So I get up early, about 7:00 am, pack (although I did not really unpack), showered, stayed in bed until about 11.00 am then checked out. I drove (Very confidently as I now knew my little patch of LA. Driving around in circles does help in certain circumstances) and arrived at the Marriott in about 5 - 10 minutes. I did ring them before and they said I could check in at 3:00 pm. Anyway I thought I would meet some of the Albert Torres representatives to enquire about registering for the Congress. I met one and enquired about this. She took my name, looked on the list and said 'Yes. We can confirm that you have booked with us for the Congress and by the way we have had to move you to another hotel'. What? Sounds like another disaster. She said somehow the hotel had overbooked and so 60% or so of the 400 people who booked through Albert Torres's organisation had to be moved to a different hotel and I was at the West Inn which happened to be, she said, about a block away. I asked one of the hotel staff how long it would take to walk (I had already parked so it was pointless driving as it was so near) and he said 5 minutes. So I decided to walk there immediately. (It actually took over 12 minutes and was just over 2 blocks away).

However when I got there I found out I could check in immediately, the hotel was very nice (they did tell me the hotels would be the same quality) and it was nearer to Salsaland (the area especially built for the Salsa Congress, more of which later). So I checked in went back to pick up my car from the Marriott and parked at the West Inn Hotel. So it turned out to be much better. Beats hanging around until 3:00 pm to check in.

2. Registration for the Salsa Congress.

So I just dumped my suitcase in my hotel bedroom (I would unpack later as I was hot and bothered walking between the hotels) and decided to register at Salsaland. Apparently there were shuttles every 15 minutes or so taking people to Salsaland, stopping at the various hotels to pick them up. However when I asked the hotel staff at the West Inn about this they knew nothing about it. So I walked back to the Marriott as I knew the shuttle was definitely leaving there for the Congress every 20 minutes or so (Phew! Another 12 minute walk between hotels).

When I got there I was directed to the back of the hotel where the bus was going to arrive and while there met a couple from Houston Texas and then two couples from Toronto in Canada (who turned out to be the group The Salsamanos Dance Company that performed on Sunday evening). It is amazing where people come from to go to these Congresses as I would find out throughout the whole weekend (I should not be surprised as I came from London travelling for 10.5 hours), and everyone is so friendly and easy to talk to.

When I got to Salsaland I registered, having my photograph taken first and a card was made up with my photograph. This had to be shown at all times when entering Salsaland. If you do not have this card then you cannot enter Salaland and if you lose it you had to pay the full price of the entire Congress. A bit harsh I think but I am sure they have their reasons for this.

Now about Salsaland. I decided to take a look around before I went back to my hotel. All the areas are covered by white tents. As you go through the main entrance you pass all the Vendors' stands. There were only a couple of stands being set up as this was the first day and the others had not set up yet.

It was now about 2:00 pm. Veering to the right there are two large tents on your left. One is where the main evening performances take place and has seating for 2,600 people and the other is the main dance area where the bands and DJ's played. This 2nd tent was also split into 2 areas and used for workshops during the day. (There were no workshops that day.They started the next day). On the right were three other smaller tents, one at the front and two at the back which were used for the workshops during the day and doubled as dance areas during the evening. Further down there was some seating areas for relaxing and then the food and drinks stalls were nearby.

This set up was quite revolutionary. However with 6 - 7 thousand people attending daily last year you do need this type of space. It certainly had more space that the NY Salsa Congress which I attended in 2004 and I thought that the rooms there was not that big. The UK Salsa Congress at Butlins in Bognor has a good set up. I have attended all of them. The first year we had to share Butlins with other holiday makers (for those who do not know Butlins is a UK holiday resort) so it was not exclusive to the Salsa Congress. However from 2002 onwards the Salsa Congress (which started in 2001) took over the whole resort. The main dance room which also doubled for the showcases is huge. This caters for LA and NY style Salsa dancing. There is also a separate smaller room that plays Cuban Salsa. Then another that plays Reggaeton, Merengue, Bachata Latin Pop etc. etc. I love this Congress. 2004 was the best. There are about 2,500 at this Congress but I'm sure it will be bigger. So a Salsaland in the UK? Paul Young take heed.

Anyway back to LA Salsa Congress and Salsaland. This looked pretty impressive. Let's see what the following weekend brings. It was my intention to meet a few vendors that day and perhaps to buy some shoes, clothes etc. But there was hardly anyone about (It was the first day after all and the people that were there were still setting up their stalls.) So I decided to go back to my hotel, unpack get some sleep and prepare for the first night. This I did.

3. The First Congress Party Night.

I slept from about 5:30 pm to 8:15 pm and left my room at 9:30 pm. I decided to use the Shuttle even though I have a car, as I was not sure about the parking arrangements for Salsaland and anyway the Shuttle would take you straight to Salsaland and back to your hotel. This would be convenient at least for the first 2 nights. I caught the shuttle and got to Salsaland at nearly 10:00 pm.

The schedule for the evenings (and consequent days) is packed. There are performances in the afternoon from 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm. Then a a dance competition from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Then shows are in the evening from 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm and then about 11:00 pm - 12:30 pm. The dancing was between and after these shows finishing at 4:00 pm. You just cannot do everything. My agenda was to do two workshops in the day (there were workshops from 10:am - 3:35 pm) amongst chatting with some vendors, go back to my hotel for a nap from about 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm and then going to Salsaland from 10:00 pm, dancing first then looking at the second show, then dancing until 4:00 pm. I came mainly for the dancing so I need to rest in the afternoon to keep my energy levels up.

So when I arrived the 1st band started playing. This was a band which comprised of musicians and their students. I videod the band's first number and then some social dancing, then did some dancing myself. I then watched the 2nd show which started at 10:00 pm. I must admit I have never heard of any of the groups but they did put on competent performances. (I just had a thought. I am able to watch both shows per evening at the UK Salsa Congress and only one at the West Coast Salsa Congress. Why is that? Ah. I know. At the UK Salsa Congress everything is on site. The accommodation, workshops, shows, everything. As soon as you finish dancing you can be in bed maximum 5 minutes. So there is no travelling time. This is time you can use to see another set of shows. Hmmm!). The New Swing Sextet then began to play (popular for club hit tune 'My Favourite Things). I videod them, then some more social dancing then danced myself. I must admit that night was a bit of a blur. I saw a few people that I had met previously the day before. Most of my dances were "On 1" but I did get a few dances "On 2" (I always ask before I dance. If they do not know what I am talking about then I dance "On 1". I get the impression New Yorkers invented "On 2" as everyone else seems to dance "On 1").

It's now 3:00 pm and the place looks empty. Why is that? Of course it's only the first night. Not many people left to dance with. I decided to catch the shuttle back to my hotel. On the way I decide to look at the videos I took and admire my work. The shuttle dropped me off at my hotel at about 3:30 am and I arrive in my hotel room, throwing my stuff on the spare bed ready to get a good night's sleep. I look on the bed. There was no camcorder. What's this? I had it with me on the coach. I look everywhere in the room and it was nowhere to be seen. I must have left in on the coach seat. Now the bus travels between hotels every 20 minutes. So I decided to wait for the next trip of people coming from Salsa land and would ask the driver when he stopped off at my hotel if he saw my camera. So I wait outside my hotel. The shuttle goes to the Marriott first (it goes past the West Inn hotel, my hotel) then stops at my hotel. So you can see it as it goes past. However after waiting 15 minutes or so I see a coach which looks like the Salsa shuttle drive past. However it looks empty. If it is empty it would not stop at my hotel. 5 minutes later it indeed drove past without stopping. Darn it. I went back to my hotel room and decided to ring the Albert Torres representative that I met earlier the day before. Surprisingly she answered the phone at about 4:10 am in the morning (She did give me her mobile number and said if there was any problems to ring her. At any time. Poor girl). She said to go to the Marriott at 9:00 am when the Shuttle starts and ask the driver if he has seen my camcorder.

Will Aubrey find his £900.00 camcorder? Will he be able to take videos as he planned? Will this trip be a complete disaster? Tune in tomorrow and find out.

Tomorrow - Workshops and the 2nd Night of the Salsa Congress.

Aubrey

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03-06-2006 6:14 pm - West Coast Salsa Congress in LA - Part 4

Hi Folks. I'm back.

Day 5 - Friday 26th May 2006.

1. My first Workshops.

I got up as usual about 7:00 am and decided to have an early breakfast. The thing mostly on my mind was my lost camcorder. Funnily I was not that worried. If the worst came to the worst and I could not find it, my travel insurance would cover most of the cost of the camera and I would get an identical camera. I could still write about the West Coast Salsa Congress but would not be able to take any videos/pictures etc. Not very good but it was not the end of the world. However I was quietly confident that I would recover it.

I had breakfast at 8:00 am and left my hotel at 8:45 am to walk to the Marriott to catch the first bus before it left for Salsaland. I have never walked so fast in my life, despite my sandaled feet. I got there at about 8:58 am and went to the hotel foyer. There were no Albert Torres representatives there as yet. So I went straight to the back of the hotel to wait for the first Salsa bus. Sure enough it came. After asking if this was the bus and confirming that it was the only one operating last night, I ask the woman driver if she or the other driver had seen my camcorder. 'Yes'. Came the reply. 'My father found it last night'. She then retrieved it from near the driver's seat. What relief!! However I was somehow confident that I would recover it. I was sure most of the people were honest and only came to dance and would empathise with me in my position. (I would anyway). From now on I decided to keep my camcorder in my shoulder bag when I was not using it.

It was now 9:10 am. I decided that since I was on the bus I might as well go to Salsaland, but when I looked at the workshop schedule my first lesson was at 1:00 pm. So I decided to go back to my hotel and relax until about 12:00 pm. This I did. I then left my hotel and caught the shuttle to Salsaland. On the bus the first person I saw was no other than Paul Young promoter of the UK Salsa Congress and who I saw the previous day. He had a stall at the Congress and was of course promoting his (our) own UK Salsa Congress. Of course he was drumming up business with the few people that were on the coach with me giving some recommendations.

At Salsaland I walked around a bit to see which vendors were on show then went to my first workshop. As I said previously, I came to LA mainly for the social dancing and not for lessons. I am not one for routines which some of the classes teach you at the end of the day. I believe every one has their own unique style. One instructor may teach you a routine but it may not suit you. A lot of students go to classes, learn a routine and then try to memorise it. You can see them practicing them even at the clubs. I gave up on that ages ago. I believe you develop your own routines and your own styles by going to the clubs and just letting rip. Let the music go to your head and through your body. At the beginning of course you will have to go to lessons to learn the basics but your own style comes on the dance floor naturally. Look at any two dancers. Everybody is uniquely different. The only people looking the same are people who went to someone else's class and learnt a particular style or footwork. Count me out. I prefer to develop my own. Any comments, anyone?

In my case I think I need to develop my styling. So there were 2 workshops I chose. One was called 'Mambo Body Movements' by Sekou McMillar of Chicago and the other was called simply 'Spins' by Gupson and Sharon of Singapore. (I did not care who did the classes. Never heard of any of them anyway). In the first case I need to develop my Mambo Style as I can dance "On 2" but do not quite have the correct style. In Jason and Amanda's "On 2" class in London which I do take now and again we do some of these exercises in the classes just before doing partner work but I think I need to concentrate on the styling only. Secondly as far as spinning is concerned, I could not do so to save my life. I took a Bachata class with Inaki Fernandez about 3 months ago and part of his class was 1/2 hour of spinning instruction. I found this very useful and decided to seek out classes like this in the future. The other workshops I looked at I was not interested in as they were either stuff like 'Ladies Styling', 'Shines' (normally somebody else's) and partner work. I had stopped doing Salsa Lessons (as I dance both "On 1" and "On 2") but doing these classes has taught me that you can add a new dimension to your dance thus making you a better dancer. Come on. No one wants to dance the same way week after week. It's boring. Especially if you've been dancing Salsa as long as I have (11 years). You want to add variety, spice and excitement to your dancing! Your hobby! I will seek out such classes from now on.

After taking these two classes, (the Spins class was at 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm) I hung around a bit then left for my hotel to get a good afternoon's nap ready for the evening's Party Night and Show. There should be more people tonight as last night was just a primer for things to come.

Coming next - The 2nd Congress Party Night. In less than 24 hours.

See you soon.

Aubrey

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04-06-2006 9:37 am - West Coast Salsa Ccngress in LA - Part 5

Hi again.I'm back.

The Second Congress Party Night.

I followed the same preparation for tonight's party as the previous evening. I slept from 5:30 pm until 8:30 pm, caught the shuttle from my hotel at 9:30 pm and arrived at Salsaland at 10:00 pm. Looking at the schedule for the day there was a lot I was missing during the day; Afternoon dance performances, competitions and the 1st evening performances. Perhaps later in the Congress (there are still 2 full days to go after tonight) I would be able to squeeze a bit more in. However looking at the performers that were due for the afternoon and 1st evening performers, I knew none of them. So for now it was my original schedule as I planned arriving at Salsaland at 10:00 pm for a full evening of Salsa.

I took out my camcorder ready for an evening's videoing and started with the first band 'Orquesta Tobaco Y Run'. They are described as the most exciting Salsa band today with their high-energy hard-edged brand of salsa music. They are a 12 piece "Big-Band" orchestra composed of musicians from all over Latin America including Puerto Rico, Cuba, Costa Rica, Venezuela, Peru, Colombia and Mexico. The first number which I videoed was a more low tempo number, but subsequent tunes were reminiscent of their high energy status, played while I was videoing the social dancers or dancing myself. I then took video shots of some social dancers and then did some dancing myself. The dancing was of a high standard as evidenced by my video clips which will be shown later on my web site Salsa Dance With Passion

I saw many Japanese dancers there. They come in their droves (I'm sure the distance from Japan to LA must be as far as London is, even further), but they must have been hundreds of them. There were lots of performers and many social dancers. I read somewhere during the trip that once they are hooked on something they will put their all into it, just like their work ethic.

I then watched the 2nd Show. There were two performances that I knew about. The first was well known dancer/performer/instructor Jose Neglia and a partner Jose Valencia. The 2nd was Salsa Frio Dancers dancers from Tromso Salsa in Norway. Eric Roland actually contacted me, complimenting me on my site and made some recommendations. He and his partner Consuelo Jeroimo are actually the first Norwegians to perform at the West Coast Salsa Congress and they were very good. After the 2nd show I videod the 'Tito Puente Original orchestra musicians' with special guests Tito Puente Jr. and Ronald Puente. Tito Puente needs no introduction. Four time Grammy Award winner, this internationally acclaimed world wide performer and his band have recorded with giants of the genre such as Carlos Santana. He has a wide appeal with fans ranging from celebrities such as Bill Cosby to young Japanese students who watched him avidly when he was in Japan. One of the tents was even named in his honour - The Tito Puente and Celia Cruz Pavilion.

I then videoed some of the social dancing. The dancing was of a very high standard indeed and I got some very good shots. Watch out for cameo appearances from Paul Young, Edie 'The Salsa Freak', and David Melendez, the New York Salsa Congress Promoter when this appears on my web site Salsa Dance With Passion and see if you can spot them. I then did some dancing myself. There were a lot more people tonight and I danced until late. I danced both "On 1" and "On 2" doing my customary enquiring about which one my partner would prefer.

There were quite a few New Yorkers (I always ask where my partners come from) but a lot of the LA dancers only danced "On 1" but some said they would love to dance "On 2". A lot of the Japanese danced "On 2". I noticed that in one of the smaller dance tents there was a high concentration of "On 2" dancers and I was more or less guaranteed an "On 2" dance there. I danced with a lot of Europeans who now live in LA and some have even visited or lived in London. So I was able to chat with them about the current London and UK Salsa scene. Small world. Also at the same time I saw Olu who is promoting the First Africa Salsa Congress. He was with his brother Ade from Atlanta who is co-promoting the Salsa Congress with him.

So it was a satisfactory night. As I said there were more people, more of an atmosphere all night and I stayed until the end, 4:00 am. This was a far cry from the first 2 days when I did not know the city and decided to stay in my hotel room instead of going to the clubs in the evenings. I went back to my hotel, satisfied with my night's dancing (I made sure my camcorder was in my shoulder bag this time).

Tomorrow - Day 3 of the West Coast Salsa Congress.

Aubrey

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05-06-2006 4:09 am - West Coast Salsa Congress in LA - Part 6

Hi there. It's me again.

Day 6 - Saturday 27th May 2006.

My second day Workshop.

Today I wanted to do something a bit different. I know I was starved of any Salsa for the first two days (although in the process I got a bit familiar with LA and driving on the right hand side of the road) but too much of one thing for too long is monotonous and kind of boring even if it's your favourite past time. So I decided to go to the Beverly Hills area for the morning. I have come a long way from London to LA and it would be a shame not to explore some of LA before I go.

I did elicit a lot of comments when I said I was going before LA. 'Make sure you have your bullet proof vest one' was one comment. 'If you stop at a red traffic light and someone does the same beside you, drive off' was another. Someone else reminded me about drive by shootings and carjacking. However I put this down to scare mongering. However reading my LA guide confirmed that carjackings were not tales of fiction but they were not the norm. Just keep out of certain areas was the warning.

However going to Beverly Hills (just for hour, I just did not have the time) would do no harm. I drove there (it took about 3/4 hour) parked and decided to walk around certain areas. But looking at the distance between streets I realise I would not have the time (I scheduled a Salsa Lesson for 2:00 pm) so walking around for about an hour and then driving back would give me time to snatch a quick snack and catch the start of my Salsa lesson. I decided to walk down the most publicised area in Beverly Hills apart from Hollywood - Rodeo Drive. It was not much different from walking down one of the more opulent streets in London (although I may have thought differently if I actually went into the shops and looked at the price tags). There was the odd flash convertible car and I even saw a poodle which is so much publicised.

After an hour I had to go. It's a shame coming all this way and seeing so little of LA. Next time I will come for a bit longer (10 days - 2 weeks) and combine my Salsa trip with a proper holiday so I can see more of LA. When I went back to Salsaland and told one of my London friends where I had been he quipped 'And you were not arrested?' I quietly smiled. The only arrest I would have on this trip would likely be cardiac arrest on the Salsa dance floor and even that is unlikely because I am one fit individual.

Anyway enough of that and back to Salsa. I arrived at Salsaland (I found out you can park there in a certain location), had something to eat and started to take my Salsa Class (Mix Tango, Flamenco, and Latin to your styling by Liz Lira) with Corrine, a Dutch friend working as a Salsa instructor in LA for 3 months and who I met the previous day. After about 5 - 10 minutes I realised this class was more geared to females with lots of ladies type moves (there were a few men who started the class with me and when I looked around they had all but disappeared). So we decided to do the class by Al "Liquid Silver" Espinoza & Carla in Millennium Salsa.

This class was partnerwork (which I said I did not want to do) but it was a very enjoyable class. Al (who used to dance a lot with Edie 'The Salsa Freak') was very funny even doing hilarious impersonations of the LA 'On 1' style and the New York 'On 2' style which had me in stitches. This grabbed my attention. One of the reasons I came to the West Coast Salsa Congress was to find out, apart from dancing "On 1" and "On 2" what was the difference in styles between NY and LA. I found this out in the 2 minutes that AL did his hilarious demonstration. In the UK the NY 'On 2" scene is getting bigger so I can more or less recognise the style but no one is really pushing the LA "On 1" Style. The lesson was enjoyable and I learnt a lot. After the lesson I had a drink and chatted with my friend Corrine before leaving at 4:30 pm for my hotel to get my customary nap before the evening's proceedings.

Coming next - The Third Congress Party Night.

Aubrey

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05-06-2006 6:29 am - West Coast Salsa Congress in LA - Part 7

Hi Folks. The West Coast Salsa Congress again.

Day 6 - Saturday 27th May 2006.

The Second Congress Party Night.

Tonight I decided to watch both shows for a change so only had about 2 hours or so nap. I slept from about 5:15 pm - 7:00 pm and left about 7:40 pm for Salsaland to catch the first of the shows at 8:00 pm. This time I drove my car so there was no waiting for a bus and it took less than 10 minutes. However I had to pay $8.00 for the privilege of parking that night. In the first show, the majority of the performers I did not know but the performances were adequate. However some I did know like Manuel Mascarell, Yamule and the Serial Dancers with Tony Lara from Italy. After the first show I took videos of the first band playing that night, 'Johny Polanco Y Su Conjunto Amisted, videoed some social dancing and decided to dance a bit myself. I then watched the 2nd shows from 11:00 pm - 12:30 pm. It included Star performers like 'Hacha and Machete' from Boston, 'Swing Guys' the new sensational act from Italy, Tito and Tamara and also Al 'Liquid Silver' Espinosa and Las Pambos from Bulgaria who performed either at the UK or the Brit Salsafest Congress. These are the known performers that encourage you to make the effort to watch all the shows.

After the 2nd shows I videoed some social dancers dancing to the 2nd band, Tipica 73 (who I did not video) and decided to dance a bit myself. This is when the 'fun' started. I could not move. Tonight, yes I knew it would be the busiest night, should have a good atmosphere and be the most enjoyable but there was no space to dance. I read that they had doubled the dancing area from last year. Well either it was really awful last year or they doubled their attendance this year because there was still no space to dance (and this was under the main tent). I tried the smaller tent where a lot of "On2" dancers congregated and tried one dance. It was the same. I mean you could dance but could not really execute your moves properly, if you know was.

This is where etiquetteless afficiendos of the dance floor hold there own. Despite the crowded floor and lack of space, there are still people dancing as if they were at home or had the dance floor to themselves. There were flailing arms, swinging their partner around and even attempting lifts and dips despite the lack of dance space. I read in an article recently by a Salsa musician that Latin especially Salsa music lovers nowadays do not care that much about the musicians only themselves as the music is faster and more geared to dancing. Well some not only didn't care about the musicians, they didn't care about other dancers as well. These dancers may be in the minority but it is still annoying when you do encounter them on the dance floor. A little thought by these dancers would be appreciated. However I decided to wait until the dance floor was less crowded before I danced again so I concentrated on videoing some social dancing.

However this was time well spent as the dancing was top quality. I went around the room to capture these dancers. Some were just attendees having a good time. The others were those who perform to the crowd either by accident or design. You always know where they were because there is always a circle around them and a few cameras pointing in their direction. So it was easy to find them. Anyway whatever you think about these people they are very good dancers and I got some very good shots of LA Style dancing at its best. So it was time well spent. The dancing was high quality.

At about 2:00 am - 2:30 am or so the crowd died down so there was more room to dance. So I tried some dancing myself. However it was difficult to 'grab' a partner (under the big tent). If you saw someone you wanted to dance with by the time the music stopped and started again she was taken (This was due to the 4 rectangular natures of the dance areas. You had to walk on the strips on the outsides of the rectangles to get to your intended partner if she was some way away, whereas a big circular dance floor it was much easier, like circling your 'prey'). Some of my dances were therefore not of the best quality. Anyway that's my moan for the day.

I left at the end, 4:00 am. Despite not having the best of nights (some of my dances were good but not as many as I would have liked) I did get some good shots of some of the best dancers on the floor and did enjoy the two shows.

Tomorrow - The last day and evening of the Salsa Congress.

Aubrey

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07-06-2006 5:59 am - West Coast Salsa Congress in LA - Part 8

Hi again. Back for the last time in LA.

Day 7 - Sunday 28th May 2006.

1. My Third day Workshop.

The night before I got to the hotel at 4:30 am, made myself a cup of coffee and then slept for about 40 minutes. I just could not go to sleep. So I lay in bed, got up earlier and got breakfast at 8:40 am. I decided to go to Salsaland earlier that day. I might as well make use of the spare time.

So I left my hotel about 8:40 am and arrived at about 9:00 am. I decided to do the 'Abs and Stretch for Dancers' workshop at 9:00 am by Del Miller. I do exercises for my whole body daily (except Sunday my day off) and have been doing so for about 18 months now, but did not do so during my week in LA. So a class like this was way overdue. I then did the 'Swing Meets Salsa' workshop by the Swing Guys at 11:00 am. As I may have mentioned earlier they have came to prominence about a year ago and their workshops are always enjoyable, one of the reasons maybe because I have done Lindy Hop and Swing for a long time.

I decided to go back to my hotel early as if I did not put in some sleep before tonight's party I would not last the night as I only had 40 minutes sleep early this morning. I wanted to make the last day at the Salsa Congress as memorable as possible if I can help it and I could not do that in a half dozed state. So I came back to hotel, relaxed a bit then hit the sack at about 3:30 pm for about 3 hours.

2. The Fourth Congress Party Night (Saturday should have been theThird. Apologies).

I decided to watch the full complement of the evening's entertainment. Therefore I left the hotel early for Salsaland and got there at 7:30 pm just in time for the end of the Finals of the Dance Competition. The quality was of a very high standard and the winner I think won an entry to take part in this year's World Salsa Championships in December in Las Vegas, which is organised by Albert Torres and the 'Salsa Seven'. I watched both shows this time. The shows ranged from very good to excellent with some dancers/groups thinking outside the box and proving different but exceptional performances. But the performance that stood out for me was Oliver Pineda and Luda Kroita. They were fantastic and simply a class above everyone else. Every move was exceptional. They are the currently World Salsa Championship "On 2" Champions (I am not surprised). They are one of the performers at the coming UK Salsa Congress in September 2005 and I will make sure that I see them perform.

I did the normal video taping of the band. I videoed the 1st band 'Chino EsinosaY dos Duenos Del Son (the 2nd band 'The Puerto Rican Masters' I did not video tape) some social dancing and danced myself. Tonight there were a lot less people and a lot more room. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I danced both "On 1" and "On 2" with lots of people (the Japanese dancers seem to be excellent at both) and even saw a few people who I danced with in London but are living in LA and came to the Salsa Congress just for the evening. And to top it all I got some excellent footage of the social dancing especially 'those' that dance to the crowds and the cameras. So the evening and the Salsa Congress was wrapped up perfectly for me.

3. My Verdict on this Salsa Congress.

This is very hard to judge as it was the first time I have been to this Congress. The NY Salsa Congress is the only one I have been to apart from this outside of the UK. The rest have all been the UK Salsa Congress (I have been to all of them), the Brit Salsafest (which I think is shaping up to be one of the best) and the British Salsa Congress (now defunct I think).

Now that I know LA a bit I will definitely go back but not for another few years as there are so many Salsa Congresses closer to home in Europe and I have not been to any of them. They also cost a lot less to go to (I can go to 3 or 4 Congresses instead of the West Coast Salsa Congress). When I go to the West Coast Salsa Congress again I will combine it with a holiday so that I can see more of LA. However my favourite so far is the UK Salsa Congress but obviously I will have to go to all the rest to make an unbiased decision (if I can do that as this is my home Salsa Congress).

4. More Salsa News tomorrow.

So that is it on the West Coast Salsa Congress. I hope this gave you an insight into it. However as they say 'The proof of the pudding is in the eating' and you of course would have to attend it to judge for yourself.

So Bye for now and I will be back as normal tomorrow with some more Salsa News.

Aubrey

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08-06-2006 6:42 am - Salsa Events around the world including Carnival de Cuba in London

Hi there. I'm back with Salsa News as normal.

London, UK.

1. Carnival de Cuba.

The hottest Latin event in Europe, the Carnival de Cuba will be on this weekend on Saturday 10th June from 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm and Sunday 11th June from 12:00 pm - 7:00 pm. It will be 2 days of Music, Bands, Dance, the Conga, stalls with Cuban delicacies and lots of entertainment for the kids.

Providing the live music will be Cuba's current Number one band Sur Caribe as well as Arnaldo y su Talisman, Pedrito Calvo - the soul of Los Van Van for 26 years and Osvaldo Chacon y su Timba the legendary master of Timba. There is also a massive Reggaeton showcase featuring Kid Afrika, Stylo Prohibido, Leximan y su Clan, Café Mezclado and an awesome line-up on the Dance Stage.

There will also be lots of dancing on show including from the UK - Janet & Rafael, Lazaro & Paola, Homero Gonzalez and Guillermo Davis. Would you like to dance too? No problem. As well as free workshops for kids and adults of all abilities there will be DJ's on show playing the latest Salsa and Latin sounds most of the afternoon on both days. The DJs are Dr Jim, Julian the Duke, Robert White, A. Brasil, Nelson Batista, Garrell, El Piro, Soloman,
Johnny G, Clemente and El Moreno.

There will also be a Conga line which will run from the Dance Stage to the Main Stage on both days at around 5.00pm. Everyone is welcome to join in. As well as Cuban food, cocktails, lots of other entertainment for the kids (and adults too - there will even be a Football World Cup tent next to the main stage for England's match vs Paraguay at 2:00 pm on Saturday), and the weather forecasting to be sunny for both days, this is a must attend event for lovers of all that is Cuban and Latin. Should be good.

The location: South Bank, along the Thames Embankment from the OXO Tower to the LWT building (between Blackfriars and Waterloo Bridges).

2. Cancelled.

i. The Rocket - Saturday 10 June 9pm-3am LatinaMAX @ The Rocket, Holloway Rd, London N7. Why? ???????

ii. The Salsa Village one day Intensive Salsa Workshop scheduled for Saturday, 24th June 2006 in the Hertfordshire area. Why? Fire at the venue.

Los Angeles, USA.

West Coast Salsa Congress, 2007.

I have just heard that the West Coast Salsa Congress is now being restricted to 2,500 people and will be in one hotel. OOOOh!! I just came back from there and it was full all the evenings, even being so packed to the rafters on the Saturday evening you could not dance properly earlier in the evening (as I wrote earlier).

Why is it being reduced? Well according to Alberttorres Events it is what we the punters wanted. Giving there were 6,000 per day at the Congress last year and I would say at least that amount this year, there are going to be a lot of disappointed people next year. I am glad I decided to go this year instead of next year. I am sure we will be hearing more about this again.

So if you want to go to the West Coast Salsa Congress 2007, book now as this event will surely be sold out soon.

More from me later.

Aubrey

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09-06-2006 10:18 am - Salsa Club News worldwide.

Hi there. I'm back.

1. UK

i. Chandy and Salsa Heaven

Chandy David is having his monthly charity event at McClusky's in aid of The Shooting Star Childrens Hospice. There is a free Salsa Lesson by Chandy and the rest of the Salsa Heaven team at 7:30 pm and then you can dance the night away to the sounds of the fabulous live 8 piece band 'Expresion Cubana', featuring Cuban singer Elizabeth Leyva.

Admission: Special price of £5.00. All profits on the night will be donated to the Shooting Star Children's Hospice.

When: Sunday 11th June 2006.

Location: McCluskys, 4 Bishop's Hall, Thames Street, Kingston-upon-Thames, KT1 1QN.

For more information see Salsa Heaven or telephone 07722123567.

ii. Carnival de Cuba on the South Bank, London.

Do not forget Carnival de Cuba, Europe's biggest yearly Latin event of the Summer. It promises to be a good one with the sun being out all weekend and London forecast to reach record temperatures this year. (It will be warmer than LA where I visited just over a week ago).

Events include live bands direct from Cuba, a Reggaeton showcase, dance performances and much more.

Admission: Free

When: Saturday 10th June 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Sunday 11th June 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Location: South Bank, along the Thames Embankment from the OXO Tower to the LWT building (between Blackfriars and Waterloo Bridges).

See Carnival de Cuba for more details. Be there.

2. Los Angeles, USA.

Albert Torres Grand opening of Friday night Salsa at Century Club.

Albert Torres Productions Inc is combining in association with the world famous 'Century Club' to bring Friday night Salsa dancing to that venue with live music and DJs. The grand opening will be on 23rd June 2006.

There is a dance class with world champion Alex Da Silva from 8:15 pm-9:15 pm. Mention you are on the Albert Torres Guest list and admission is for women: Free before 11:00 pm and for men: $10.00 between 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm and $15:00 between 10:00 pm and 11:00 pm.

Music is provided by live band Johnny Polanco Y Su Conjunto Amistad at 11:00 pm in the Main Room.

Admission: $20:00 after 11:00 pm. Dress to impress. ID required (This is a 21 and over club).

Location: 10131 Constellation Blvd (Corner of Ave of the Stars), Century City, CA

See you later.

Aubrey

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11-06-2006 4:51 am - Spanish Salsa Congress

Hi folks. Some more Salsa Congress news.

Spanish Salsa Congress.

The Spain Salsa Festival will be taking place on 30th June - 2nd July 2006 in Sant Andreu de Llavaneres 30 minutes by train from Barcelona. The venue will be all outdoors. A tent will cover the stage and main dance floor!

As usual the performers/instructors will consist of the world's best. Just look at this line-up:

Instructors and performers

Luís Vázquez and Melissa - Los Angeles,

Angel Ortiz , Candy Mena, Jhesus Aponte and Juan Matos - New York,

Leon Rose, Susana Montero, Super Mario, Tamambo and Rohan Brown - London,

Billy Fajardo & Katie Marlow - Miami,

Tito y Tamara - Puerto Rico,

Swinguys and Los Hermanos - Italy,

Farid Ferchach and Salsa Conga - France,

Adriana Mendes and Aldo and Paola - Brazil,

Salseras - Suecia,

Papa Rumba - Cuba,

Carlos Galiano & Ellit Torres - Australia,

Juan Carlos Espinoza and Ivonne - Chile/Zurich,

Salsa Power - Zurich, Adrian y Anita - Uruguay/Brasil,

Pablo y Diana - Argentina/Colombia,

Mythical Mambo - Argentina/Barcelona,

Salsa Caliente - Mexico,

Cote y Maria, and David y Gemma, Ray, Salsa Del Barrio and Pepe y Paquita - Barcelona,

Carmen Lorente and Son Fusion - Valencia,

Bárbara Cano - Sevilla, José Antonio y Vanessa, Marta Gonzalez and Gregory Campillo - Madrid,

Y.E. Mambo - San Sebastián,

Travesia Latina - Canarias.

DJs:

Super Robby - Los Angeles, Mario, Alvaro and Tony - Barcelona.

The special guest will be Albert Torres.

Phew!!! It makes you hot and sweaty just saying all that.

Cost:

Price: 100 Euros for the full pass only, not accommodation.

Schedule:

Friday - Welcome Party on the Beach; Friday evening - Spain Salsa Championships with competitions for "On 1", "On 2" and Cabaret divisions.

Saturday - 22 workshops (same for Sunday); Saturday evening - Shows on Stage, a live band then dancing afterwards to the DJs until the early hours of the morning (Same for Sunday).

Registration.

Register online. It is recommended that you do not stay in Barcelona but nearer to the Venue. The recommended hotel is Rocatel Hotel in Canet de Mar from which transportation to the venue will be provided. However there are many hotels nearby. So book online soon here to avoid disappointment. .

I will be back tomorrow with more info.

Aubrey

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12-06-2006 6:13 am - More Salsa Club news.

Hi folks. More news on the club scene.

1. Mambo City - The Prodigal, London EC2, UK.

On Saturday is the 3 weekly event at the Prodigal, promoted by Robert and Jean White of Mambo City. There will be a performance by star dancers Shelly and Lee.

Shelly and Lee are widely acknowledged as rising stars on the UK salsa dance scene and have taken the UK, Europe, and perhaps the world by storm. Shelly who I know personally, told me she took up Salsa dancing when introduced to it by her father. She first thought it was for older folk (we know it's for folk of all ages) but since she started she has not looked back since.

Both are established performers. Shelley trains and performs with Iris de Brito and her Latin Soul Sisters and the Mambo group Manhattan Mambo. Lee has worked with the South of England Latin Formation Team (the British Champions) and the Diablo Dance Company. They have been invited to join the Leon Rose Project and they have already performed with this troupe around the UK and Europe.

They have entered and won many competitions including the UK national Murderous Instincts talent-spotting competition and performed their first choreography at the finals of the Tropicana Professional World Salsa Championships. They have performed at many a Salsa Congress, including the UK Salsa Congress promoted by Paul Young and the Brit Salsafest.

There will also be free Salsa (by the Mambo City Team) and Bachata (by Inaki Fernandez) classes at 8:30 pm, then dancing until 3:00 am the next morning. There will be videos and even screening of the Football World Cup Match - Italy v USA at 8:00 pm. Music will be supplied by DJ Johnny "G" and Cruz.

Time: Doors open - 8:00 pm. Dance classes - 8:30 pm for 1 hour. Dancing from 9:30 pm.

Location: The Prodigal, Corner of Wood Street/Love Lane, St Pauls, London EC2V 7JQ.

Cost: £10/£8 Members/NUS. Members free before 9:00 pm.

Seems like a good place to be this Saturday.

2. Salsa Fusion - The Gate, London EC2, W11.

There is now a new club night by Salsa Fusion every Monday night in Notting Hill Gate, London.

There is a beginners Salsa Class at 7:30 pm and an improvers Salsa Class at 8:30 pm by the Salsa Fusion team. Thereafter there is dancing from 9:30 pm to 1:30 am by DJ Ara.

Location: 87 Notting Hill Gate, London, W11 3JZ, UK.

Cost: Club - Free; Classes - £4.00.

Watch this space.

Bye for now.

Aubrey

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13-06-2006 10:09 pm - More Carnival in London, UK

Hi. Welcome back.

Carnaval Latina UK - Tottenham, London, UK.

Carnival fever hits the UK once again. This time it's the Carnaval Latina UK which is part of the Tottenham Carnival with well over 80,000 people expected and it is supposed to be the 2nd biggest street festival in London after the Notting Hill Carnival.

The carnival parade and floats arrive at Bruce Castle Park around 12.30 pm - 1.00 pm. So be there around that time if you are interested in seeing this. However the Carnaval Latina UK events are listed below (and if you were at the Carnival de Cuba - what a great 2 days those were, brilliant sunny weather - you know what to expect).

Latin Stage

2:00 pm - 2:30 pm - La Saga

3:00 pm - 3:30 - Leximan

4:00 pm - 4:30 pm - Cafe Mezclado

5:00 - 6:45 pm - Groupo X and Jimmy Sabater with Moe Flex and Team and also Diablo Dance Company on stage at the same time.

In between these times there will be DJ music.

The Latin Tent

12:00 pm - Close - There will be a mixture of classes and dancing with Moe Flex and Team, Gary and Marisa, Michael, Hazra and the Salsa Addicts and Osbanis giving lessons in the La Rueda, Lambazouk and Salsa, and Big Les, DJ Gary and even Moe Flex providing the DJ music.

The Main Stage

There will musicians and live acts including Big Brovaz, Bushnut and The World of Strange. All this as well as a 2 mile parade, 3 other stages in the park, kids and food zones, a Global shopping Village, a massive central drinks enclosure and a full fun fair, this could be a day to remember.

And to top it all it is all FREE.

More later.

Aubrey

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14-06-2006 9:58 pm - Try something different in Los Angeles, USA

Hi folks.

Los Angeles - USA

Why not try something different before your Salsa dancing?

Back for a last performance by popular demand is the show 'Macho Men and the Women who love them' by Maria Costa at The Ivar Theater, 1605 Ivar Ave, Hollywood, CA 90028. In this electrifying and hilarious musical comedy, Maria shows her tempestuous relationship with her Latino macho man.

Cuban Music and Dancing.

The show also features fantastic Cuban music and dance performances by four of the hottest conga players and Rumba dancers around. Buying tickets on line automatically enters you into a contest for FREE products from Maria's hot new Latin Inspired Clothing Line, ‘Mamita' for her and ‘Machismo' for him! Maria's Celebrity friends will join her on stage for a post-show fashion and salsa music and dance extravaganza featuring her clothing Line.

Salsa dancing afterwards at the Granada.

There will be Free Mojitos & Cuba Libre Cocktails and tasty appetizers at receptions before and after the show. An After Party is available at the Granada with discount at the door for those possessing 'Macho' tickets.

Time:

Thursday 22nd June 2006

Cost:

$20 Main Stage, $15 Balcony, Group Sales of 10 or More: $15 Main Stage /$10 Balcony. V.I.P. Seating and Packages Available on Line at Maria Costa's Macho Men and Women.

Bye for now.

Aubrey

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15-06-2006 11:18 pm - Edie The Salsa Freak's Events.

Hi, everyone.

Edie's Salsa Bootcamp, Fort Lauderdale, Florida USA

Edie the Salsa Freak will be giving one of her famous Bootcamps, this time in Florida USA on Saturday and Sunday 24th - 25th June 2006. This will take on the same format as the one she gave in Downey California on 20th - 21st May 2006.

It will be an 8 hour Salsa Bootcamp for both men and women.The ladies pay on Saturday and Sunday and the guys get in free on Sunday. Free lunch and munchies are included on both days. Learn more about this workshop here.

In fact this is one of similar workshops that Edie will be giving worldwide. She plans more in London, Poland, Switzerland, Los Angeles, Denver, Chicago, Holland and Romania over the coming months.

We will give you full details of these nearer the time.

Other events involving Edie the Salsa Freak

These are The Palm Springs Summer Salsa Mambo Festival 27th July - 30th July 2006, The Mambo Project - Miami, Florida, and the Salsa Congresses in Hamburg and Munich.

Edie also now gives classes every Wednesday from 28th June 2006 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

I will of course give you more information about all of these nearer the time.

Aubrey

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die The 'Salsa Freak' is having another Bootcamp, but this time in Fort Lauderdale.

17-06-2006 5:59 am - Salsa snippets from around the world

Hi Everyone.

1. United Kingdom

i. Manchester

a. Salsology Skool

Emma Moore and Salsology reported that a good time was had by all at the launch date of their newly created Salsology Skool. However the next one due for the 1st week in July has been cancelled due to the possibility that England may get through to the Quarter Finals of the Football World Cup (well, anything is possible) but they will continue as per planned on the first Saturday of the month on 5th August

b. Casino Royal Night.

Don't forget Salsology's Summer Party with a James Bond Theme. Guest teacher SuperMario.

More about these events later or check out Salsology for more details.

ii. Hertfordshire

Salsa Village

New Salsa Venue.

Salsa Village have a new Salsa Venue starting this Tuesday 20th June 2006.

There are excellent teachers at all levels, a bar, air conditioning, wooden flooring, an excellent sound system and a comfortable seating area.

Location: The Kent Athletic Club, Tenby Drive, Luton, LU4 9BN. There is Free car parking.

Grand opening date: Tuesday 20th June 2006 at 7:30 pm.

Admission: only £4 Class/Club.

See Salsa Village for more details.

iii. London

Tottenham Carnival.

Don't forget the Tottenham Carnival today Saturday 17th June at Bruce Castle Park, Tottenham, London, N17.

2. United States

i. California

Salsa Summer Splash

The Salsa Summer Splash 2006 will take place at the Doral Springs Hotel - Palm Springs on August 10-13 2006. Enjoy one-on-one instruction from Salsa's greatest performers including Alex da Silva, L.A.-based dancer and first-season choreographer for "So you think you can Dance" Reality TV show.

Book your places now. This event is filling up fast.

For more information see Summer Salsa Splash

ii. Miami

Henry Herrera

Henry Herrera is back in town from 20th Century Fox Los Angeles. He will be teaching on Thursday at the Gables Banquet hall from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Henry is the expert on Cuban Body Movement Techniques. So if you really want to learn how to move your body now is the time to take these classes from Henry Herrera.

For more on his classes see Salsa Racing Classes

3. Canada

Latin Energy

Latin Energy are now at two permanent locations.

Location 1:

Toronto - 1124A Dovercourt Rd (one block north of Dupont, close to Ossington Subway Station).

Location 2:

Etobicoke - Lake Shore Blvd. West & Islington Ave. Close to the Gardiner.

Latin Energy also have a new young dance team.

For more details see Latin Energy

Bye for now.

Aubrey

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19-06-2006 8:14 am - World Salsa Championship 2006. Which is which?

Hi everyone.

1. Two World Salsa Chapionships.

A few weeks ago I reported on the World Salsa Championships which is in its 2nd year this year. However there is another World Salsa Championships which I was not aware of. This is organised by the World Salsa Federation (WSF) and has been going I believe since 2002. So what is the difference between the two?

2. The World Salsa Chapionships by the "Salsa Seven".

The one I reported on a few weeks ago is organised by Albert Torres and the 'The Salsa Seven'. The Salsa Seven consists of Albert Torres himself, Willie Torres a producer and administrator, Leo Tizol and Mundolibremusic, Don Elbaum, Rob Beiner a TV Producer and Director and two others who prefer to remain anonymous. According to their web site their commitment is "to produce the most memorable music and dance event in the History of Salsa Music. Salsa Seven have an unstoppable commitment to educating the public about this wonderful Latin Rhythm we call Salsa". It was formed in 2005.

3. The World Salsa Chapionships by the WSF.

The WSF was formed in 2001 and I think is run by Isaac Altman the CEO and his wife Laura. The headquarters is in Miami, Florida. According to their web site the WSF "is the recognized World Governing Body for Salsa " and "provides top-notch Certification for Teachers, Instructional DVD's and Videos, Achievement Awards for Amateurs".

4. What is the difference?

So what is the difference between the two championships?

For Albert Torres and the 'The Salsa Seven' championships there are 4 categories:

i. Salsa "On 1"

ii. Salsa "On 2"

iii. "Cabaret"

iv. "Teams.

For the WSF this is more varied. The categories are:
i. Colombian Style

ii. Mambo

iii. New York Style

iv.Salsa Showdance

v. L. A. Style"

vi. Cuban Style Salsa

vii. Salsa Shines

viii. Salsa Team

ix. World Undisputed Salsa Championship

That is 8 categories plus the Undisputed Championships where dancers of all styles compete. Wow!!!

I must say I thought Mambo and New York Style were one and the same and I have no idea what Salsa Showdance but I'm sure I will soon find out.

5. Why 2 Championships?

So why 2 Salsa World Championships? I do not know. Apart from being on a different date every year (The WSF Championships is in early November 2006 and the Salsa Seven's Championships is in mid December 2006. This difference in dates is what got me to realise there are two competing? World Salsa Championships) and the different categories, search me.

Perhaps it's a bit like boxing where there is the WBA, WBF etc. However if the quality of the dancing in either Championship matches that of Oliver Pineda who won the Salsa Seven's Salsa World Championships "On 2" category in 2005, then I'm for either.

6. Comments please.

If anyone can enlighten me about these 2 Championships, the definition of Salsa Showdance and the difference between Mambo and NY Style as per the WSF competition, please let me know via the Comments link below.

Bye for now.

Aubrey

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20-06-2006 8:58 am - More Salsa Club events in London, UK!!!

United Kingdom

London, UK

1. Salsa Heaven's next Latin Flava Night

Salsa Heaven's next party night is on Thursday 6th July 2006. The line up consists of Team Salsa Olympic champions Laith Sami and his Diablo Dance Company along with a spectacular Capoeira Show by Lagartixa & Co.! There will be 4 rooms of Latin dance, 4 DJs: Amir, Nathan, Jorge and CashMoney and 10 teachers taking classes in Salsa, Lambada and Kizomba.

Teachers

Salsa Classes.

i. Laith Sami - Advanced.

ii. Chandy David - Intermediate.

iii. Naseem - Beginners.

2. Lambada classes.

i. Berg Dias - Advanced.

ii. Michael and Cleise - Intermediate.

iii. Gary and Marisa - Beginners.

3. Kizomba class

Riquita and Kwenda.

Time: Classes are @ 8:00 pm. The club starts from 9:00 pm onwards.

Admission: £8.00 b4 11:00 pm [includes free lesson of any style at any level], £5 after 11:00 pm.

2. Tuesday 20th June @ Bar Rez, Vauxhall.

Zouk Heaven (with the colours of Brazil) will be present. There will be different classes.

i. Lambada Classes. - 2 levels with Heber and Michael.

ii. Kizomba - Kwenda and Marie or Riquita.

Time: Classes start at 8:00 pm.

Admission: All classes £8:00. Free entry after 9:30 pm. DJ Jorge will be playing the best in Lambada, Zouk and Kizomba!

Bye for now.

Aubrey

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21-06-2006 6:00 am - Salsa Congress in the North West of USA!

Hi folks. More news.

1. First Salsa Congress in the North West.

The first Northwest Salsa Congress (NWSC) is on 8th - 10th September 2006 with a Pre-Congress party on 7th September. This will take place in Seattle, Washington. This is a collaboration of Street and Sound Productions and of course Albert Torres.

2. Who is participating?

The following Instructors and performers have been confirmed to attend so far.

i. Victor and Gaby and Salsa con Clave - Mexico City.

ii. Seko McMillar and Descarga Caribe - Chicago.

iii. Billy Corado and Monica Flores - Los Angeles.

There will be live bands on each night including the Pre-Congress party with among them the Seattle All-Stars Latin Ensemble and Carlos Cascante y su Tumbao.

3. Competition for the 2nd World Salsa Championships.

Also at this Salsa Congress will be the qualifying round for the 2nd Annual World Salsa Championships - that of Albert Torres and the 'Salsa Seven' not by the WSF. The winners will be sponsored by the NWSC to compete in Las Vegas in December 2006.

4. Location.

i. Workshops, Shows, and Parties - Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Centre. With sweeping views of Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound, is located just a short drive south of Seattle.

ii. Hotel - Downtown Tacoma Courtyard Marriott. This is located directly across the street from the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center.

5. Cost.

See Registration

6. Times.

Times of Workshops and Shows are to be announced. Dancing to the DJs and band will be until 3:00 am the next morning (1:30 am at the Pre-Congress Party).

More news about this Salsa Congress will be brought to you later.

Back tomorrow.

Aubrey

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24-06-2006 5:18 am - A Malaysian Salsa Congress

Hi folks.

1. First Malaysian Salsa Congress.

A Salsa Congress in Asia, in Malaysia actually, will soon be upon us. The Malaysian Salsa Festival will take place from Friday 4th August - Sunday 6th August 2006.

2. In The Beginning.

This Salsa Congress is organised by Lin Hamid. It started out with her and a group of friends organising a Salsa event in 2003 to bring together local and international Salseros and Salseras to enjoy a Salsa event on their beautiful island and it just grew and grew. So now this is the first ever Malaysia Salsa Festival which will bring together International Instructors and performers.

3. The Instructors and Performers.

The line up includes:

Susana Montero - London.

Thomas Guerrero and Ahtoy Wonpat Borja - New York.

Jaime Jesus and Little Liz - Australia.

Candice and Lautoro - Switzerland.

Ashwin Moshran - India.

and more to be announced. The line up is subject to change.

4. Program of Events.

The program of events will be the customary workshops in the day, shows in the evening and partying until dawn with the DJs spinning the latest Salsa tracks. There is even a Welcome Party on Thursday 3rd August 2006 at the Salsa Havana, The Federal Hotel, Jalan Bukit Bintang, in Kaula Lumpur.

5. And a Holiday to boot.

The organisers want you not just to have a Salsa Weekend but a enjoy a holiday as well. So this Salsa Congress is being held at the Impiana Beach Resort, Cherating. Just over 3 hours from Kaula Lumpur, the Impiana is situated at a remote stretch on the East Coast of Malaysia, with its golden sandy beaches being home to the exotic sea turtles. Relaxing here during the Salsa Congress, there's time for that coconut drink by the beach or a much needed massage after all the dancing the night before.

6. Conclusion.

Sound like a Salsa Congress with a difference, just what I would like a Salsa Congress to be. Anyway I will report on this event nearer the time.

See you later.

Aubrey

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25-06-2006 10:36 pm - More Worldwide Salsa Events!

Hi folks.

1. London, UK.

i. A Latin American Festival in South London.

A Latin American Festival, Festival Encuentro Latino, is now in progress in London (from 23rd June - 30th July 2006). This is 'The New Latin American Arts and Cultural Festival in London' and is continuing in Balham, South London next weekend as part of the 10th Anniversary of the Balham Festival.

It will be a weekend of live music and dance from all over Latin America including dance showcases, a carnival parade and numerous floats, stalls and a street market selling delicious delicacies.

ii. Schedule of Events.

a. Saturday 1st July 2006. Latin American Floats in the Balham festival Parade including a Brazil Float (Brazil Fever), a Salsa Float (Salsa Republic) and a Columbian Float.

Location:

The Floats will proceed along Balham High Road.

Time:

2:00 pm - 4:00 pm.

b. Sunday 2nd July 2006 - The Latin American Village as part of the Balham Family Fun day. There will be live music and dance acts from World Salsa Champions Ricardo Murillo and Viviana Vargas from Columbia, Brazil's Heber Siqueira and Reggaeton MCs "LM", and top DJs playing Salsa, Samba, Reggaeton and other sounds from the Tropics.

The location:

Totting Bec Common, next to Emmanuel Road, London, SW12.

Time:

12:00 pm - 5:00 pm.

For more information telephone: 07960 093096 or 07886 504 701 or email:olalatina@hotmail.com.

2. Miami, Florida, USA.

Cafe Mistique, the number 1 Salsa Dance Club in Miami, will host the Mystique Salsa Dance Challenge. This 5 week Salsa dance contest will determine which 4 couples in South Florida will qualify to represent Cafe Mystique in the 2006 WSF (World Salsa Federation) World Cuban Style Salsa Championships. Amongst other "gifts", Mystique will give all 4 couples a full year of FREE admissions to their club.

Qualifying rounds will start on the 5th of October 2006 and conclude at the Official Kick-Off Party of the 2006 WSF World Salsa Championships, on 2nd November 2006.

For more information, call 786-566-2604.

3. Sydney, Australia.

i. A Night with the Stars.

Latin Motion will be holding a party to see off Oliver Pineda and Luda Kroitor when they leave to travel worldwide with a heavy schedule.They will be living in Portugal and both Luda and Oliver will be travelling to many Salsa Congresses to teach and perform before returning in December 2006.

So be there for the big send off party with performances and social dancing.

ii. Time:

Saturday 15th July 2006. From 8:00 pm till 12:00 am.

iii. Location:

The Latin Motion Studios, Sydney.

iv. Admission:

$20.00 at the door or $15.00 pre-paid.

More later.

Aubrey

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26-06-2006 5:00 pm - UK Salsa Clubs Nights!

Hi. More UK Club Nights for you.

1. The Rocket, Islington, London UK.

i. The Event.

This event was cancelled about 2 weeks ago most probably because of the Carnaval de Cuba events of that weekend, but it is on again this Saturday 1st July 2006. There will be a fantastic dance showcase from Giles and Rosa from Oxford.

There are over 7500sq ft wooden dance floor, 2 bars, full air-conditioning and 4 rooms of dance each with their own sound systems.There will be classes in Lambazouk & Salsa with the Latin Collective team then the club will go on until 3:00 am the next morning.

ii. The 4 rooms.

a. Room 1: SalsaMax (NY style Salsa).

b. Room 2: Viva Cuba (Cuban Salsa).

c. Room 3: Brazilian Beach Bums (Lambazouk, Samba and Kizomba).

d. Room 4: Urban Latino (RnB, Soul and Funk.

DJs are Dr Jim, Big Les, Paolo, Tiz plus special guest DJ Lawson.

iii. Time:

Saturday 1st July 2006. From 9:00 pm till 3:00 am.

iv. Location:

The Rocket, 166 Holloway Rd, Islington, London N7 (opposite Holloway Rd tube stn with plenty of parking outside).

iv. Admission:

Party only Package £12 (non-members, £9 (members), £6 (NUS).

2. Club Noches Latinas, Maidenhead .

i. The Club.

This club is run by Sue Hollerbach, whose first taste of dancing was in Ballroom, providing her excellent knowledge of Rumba and Cha-Cha-Cha.

Noches Latinas was born 11 years ago in 1995 when a team of ladies joined to share their love of Salsa. With the rapidly increasing population of Salseros, they were in demand.

The regular events are held at The Pegasus which is widely known as T.J.O'Reilly's.

ii. Club night on 3rd July 2006.

This is the normal Monday night club night with a guest teacher. On the night, back by popular demand is Andy Barratt who will be teaching Shines and Footwork at 7:45 pm and then the advanced Salsa Class at 8:30 pm.

Normally there is La Rueda (The Wheel) Casino style with 'Billy' from Salsa Cubana and World Champion 'La Rueda' 2003! but it is not on this week. The Salsa lessons are on as usual at 8:30 pm.

After the classes there will be dancing til late in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

a. Time:

Monday 3rd July 2006. From 7:45 pm till late.

b. Location:

TJ O'Reilleys, Marlows Bottom,Marlow, Bucks, M40, Junction 4.

ii. Salsa Event on Saturday 8th July 2006.

The Summer Salsa Ball. A fabulous fun night of salsa, fun and a good excuse to dress up and sip summer cocktails! Classes start at 8:15pm. Dancing until Midnight to the fantastic live Band Palenke. There is a Licenced Bar Large Free Car park.

a. Time:

Saturday 8th July 2006. From 8:15 pm till late.

b. Location:

Hughenden Village hall, Coombe Lane, Hughenden Valley. HP14 4NZ.

c. Admission:

£10 on the door.

For more details check web site Noches Latinas or telephone Sue on 07887 982898 or send email to salsasu@hotmail.co.uk.

Bye for now.

Aubrey

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28-06-2006 7:40 am - More Salsa Club News Worldwide!

Hi. More Worldwide Salsa Club News for you.

1. Los Angeles, USA.

The Century Club.

This week at the new Salsa Night at the Century Club. Join Alberttorres Productions, Walter Segundo & DJ Martin "El Travieso" for this regular Friday night extravaganza. This event opened last Friday 23rd June and is organised by
Albert Torres. There is a great dance floor.

There is a dance Lesson with Alex Da Silva at 8:15 pm - 9:15 pm. Dress to impress. This is an over 21 Club.

Time:

Friday 30th June 2006. From 8:15 pm (When the lesson starts). Club 9:15 pm till late.

Location:

10131 Constellation Blvd, Century City, CA 90067. Telephone: 310 553 6000.

Admission:

Everyone free till 11:00 pm.(Go early). Everyone $20:00 after 11:00 pm.

2. Melbourne, Australia.

This Friday at the Park Hyatt Radii Bar.

There will be an exclusive performance by Giancarlo & Masha! This is a one off.

After one years absence. Gian returns to Melbourne for one weekend only with a new partner and his stylish, flashy and sharp moves that set a new standard!

After relocating to Auckland, NZ from Melbourne, Giancarlo & Masha have sky rocketed on the World Salsa scene, representing NZ in places such as Hong Kong, UK, Sydney, Los Angeles and Miami to mention a few!

There will also be live music as usual from 'BAHIA', Melbourne's premier Salsa band. They will be supported by special guest Salsa DJ's. Also this Friday and on the last Friday of every month Colombian DJ 'Salsabor' will be mixing Reggaeton grooves in the Cigar Lounge.

Dress Code:

The Park Hyatt request that patrons do not wear T-shirts, cargo pants & white sneakers. Dress sharp and sexy.

Time:

Friday 30th June 2006. From 10:00 pm - 2:00 am.

Location:

Park Hyatt, 1 Parliament Square Melb. MEL REF 2G A2. Ample FREE street parking. Telephone Gaby: 0413541207 for more information.

Admission:

$12.00.

3. UK

Here are some new clubs, classes and events in the UK.

i. Pasion Cubana.

Organised by Afro Cuban Pati and Salsa Republic, this is on the 2nd Friday of the every month, the next therefore being on 14th July 2006. There is a Rueda Class at 9:30 pm with different guest teachers every month.

Time:

Friday 14th July 2006. Rueda Class from 9:30 pm - 10:30 pm. Then Club til 3:00 am.

Location:

Bar Rez. 1 Nine Elms Lane, Vauxhall, London, SW8 5NQ.

Admission:

£7.00 or £5.00 with concessions.

For more information go to Passion Cubana.

ii. Rueda de Casino Day.

Join the cream of the UK's Cuban Salsa scene for a fantastic day of Rueda de Casino with Rafael, Kerry Ribchester, Lazaro and Paola, Moe Flex, Antonio, and Esther and Roger.

Time:

Saturday 15th July 2006. Workshops from 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm. Entertainment from 9:00pm - 3:00 am.

Location:

Calico Bar, 67-69 Watling Street, London, EC4 (Mansion House Tube Station, District and Circle Line).

Admission:

£20.00 in advance. £25.00 on the day. £8.00 Club only from 9:00 pm.

For more information go to The Rueda Day.

iii. Go Salsa - Salsa and Tango Weekend.

This is a yearly event on the Isle of Wight. This year it is on 25th - 28th August. 15 hours of workshops daily, shows from performers such as Rafael, Janet, Osbanis and Andrea Stuart and of course dancing until the early hours.

More on this later or you can check web site Isle of Wight Salsa and Tango Weekend.

More Salsa news later.

Aubrey

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30-06-2006 1:24 am - And Yet More Salsa Club News Worldwide!!!

Hi. Salsa Club News again!!

1. Miami, USA.

Born To Salsa Fridays @ Rendezvous.

This is the place for everyone to party on Friday nights for Salsa in South Florida. There is a Happy Hour from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm, free buffet and 2 for 1 drinks. There is also a DJ playing mixed format of music and Large Screen TVs to catch all the games.

Salsa classes are from 7:00 - 9:00 pm with weekly dance performances and alternating DJ's - one indoors and one on the patio. $3 Presidente beers all night long and groups of four ladies or more get free bottle of Champagne.

Time:

Friday 30th June 2006. From 6:00 pm, the Happy Hour. Then Lesson from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Club afterwards.

Location:

Click Rendezvous for more details or Telephone Club: 305-822-7999. Free Parking in a great location with no driving hassles whatsoever.

Admission:

Ladies get free admission. Gents? Contact Born to Salsa or telephone Club: 305-822-7999. Ladies 18 and over - Gentlemen 21 and over.

2. Sydney, Australia.

Casa de la Musica @ The Marquee.

Grand opening of this new club night. Come & party with some of Sydney’s premiere Salsa DJs every Wednesday.
Make way strictly for the Salseros & Salseras.

Classes from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Learn Salsa, Reggaeton, Bachata & other styles. Classes at all levels with dance International dance instructors Moro, Yarima & Alegria from BuenaVista Dance Academy.

This is in one of Sydney’s coziest venues. It is central and there is easy access and parking.

Time:

Wednesday 12th July - Grand Opening. 9:00 pm til Late (Classes from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm).

Location:

Corner of Parramatta Rd. & Pyrmont Bridge Rd, Camperdown, Sydney.

Admission:

Free. For class bookings call 0422 760238 (limited numbers available).

3. Manchester, UK.

Casino Royale.

Salsology's big Summer party is here with a Bond theme. Come on all you international spies and glamour pusses. We want to see you in your dinner jackets and flowing gowns. So come along - get dressed up. There will be full size roulette and blackjack tables with professonal croupiers, fun money and prizes.

There is a Beginners Salsa Class at 9:15 pm with Kate and also a separate 3some Class with Super Mario (One Bond and 2 Bond girls). A superb dance floor with 2 rooms for space for 400 plus dancers awaits you. DJs on the night will be Super Mario, Gary Thomas, Chris Mee, Barry G & Emma. Dance shoes and dance wear will be on sale.

Time:

Saturday 14th July - 9:00 pm til 4:00 am subject to late licence (Classes from 9:15 pm - 10:15 pm).

Location:

The Longfield Suite, The Longfield Centre, Rectory Lane, Prestwich, Manchester M25 1AY. Tel: 0161 253 7227

Admission:

£10.00.

For more information see Casino Royale.

See you later.

Aubrey

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30-06-2006 5:57 pm - A Salsa Congress in Florida.

Hi folks. More Salsa Congress news.1. First Salsa Congress in Orlando.The first Orlando Salsa Congress will take place at The Rosen Plaza Hotel, Orlando from 7th - 9th July 2006. It has been organised by Born to Salsa and Salsa Heat Dance Studios of Orlando,... (Read Article)