| 02-09-2006 2:45 am - Salsa This Weekend Worldwide !!!
1. Sydney, Australia.
Spanish Quarter Festival, 2006.
Passions will flare in the Spanish Quarter on Sunday 3rd September with an all day fiesta of live music from across the Spanish speaking world, flamenco and salsa dancing, tantalising food and market stalls.
The fourth annual Spanish Quarter Street Festival, which is produced by the City of Sydney, promises a feast for the senses. Leading flamenco guitarists, dancers and singers, will entertain the expected 40,000+ crowd on Liverpool and Kent Streets throughout the day and into the night.
All you Salsa enthusiasts and diehards, this is for you. There will be lots of dancing in the streets and it will be Free. So do let rip, enjoy yourselves and show everyone what you can do on the dance floor.
Food lovers will enjoy the flavours of Iberia at stalls, cafes and restaurants. You can expect the best of Spanish food, including assorted tapas, paella and churros con chocolate. For shoppers, market stalls will offer homewares, crafts, clothes and delicacies.
Time: - Sunday 3rd September 2006. 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm.
Venue: - Liverpool St & Kent St, Sydney, Australia.
Cost: Free.
2. The Bronx, New York, USA.
The Tropical Music Festival.
The Tropical Music Festival ends on Sunday 3rd September 2006 with a musical extravaganza. It has been on Since Sunday 6th August and every Sunday since.
Organised by R. Paniagua Inc.The 2006 Mega Tropical Music Festival Series provides FREE Latin Music. This year's program will come to a close with a continued dedication to the legendary Polito Vega, Mega 97.9FM and will be known as The MEGA Orchard Beach Parties with Polito Vega. From 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm, live interventions by DJ Wreck will air during the Polito Vega show.
This popular music festival has offered concerts that will reach New Yorkers from all boroughs and walks of life. With a tremendous variety of acts in the genres of Salsa, Jazz, Bachata, Merengue and Reggaeton, The 2006 Mega Orchard Beach Parties has been part of RPI's Tropical Music Festival with a spectacular music show at the Orchard Beach, the No. 1 Latin Beach in NYC.
3. London, UK.
Salsa Fusion.
Salsa Fusion is on this Saturday 2nd September 2006 for its fortnightly club night although you have to check the web site to find out exactly when they are on as sometimes they are only on once a month.
Giving the Salsa class will be Moe Flex with a Free Casino de Rueda Lesson.
Moe Flex is one of the most exciting, inspiring and entertaining characters in the Latin dance scene today. He exploded into the salsa scene winning 1st place in the UKA British Amateur Championships within 6 months of starting to dance salsa.
Now focusing on his true passion, salsa and all things Latin, Moe divides his time between teaching, choreographing and performing throughout the UK and overseas. He will be appearing in the UK Salsa Congress 2006.
DJs will be Ara in the Salsa Room and Luis and (El Panameñio) in the Fusion Room playing the latest Salsa and Latin tunes.
For more on how Salsa Fusion returned to its former glory please see the articles Salsa Fusion 1 and Salsa Fusion 2.
That's all for now. See you tomorrow.
Aubrey
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05-09-2006 1:28 am - Salsa Clubs Worldwide!!!
1. London, UK.
i. Digress Latin Night.
Are you anywhere near the City of London on a Tuesday night? Then why not pop along to Latin Night at City Point Digress? It is ideal if you work in the City.
Just pop along any Tuesday after work or if you are just in the area. You can either relax and sip a drink (Happy Hour is between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm) or enjoy the delicious food on offer.
After that it's time for Salsa. It does not matter if you have not done Salsa before and are an absolute beginner. Join in the Beginners classes. That is what they are there for.
The other classes (the classes cater for all levels) are Improvers to advanced for those who have some Salsa experience.
After that it's club time. Relax. Practice those moves from 9:30 pm onwards and have fun.
Time: - Tuesdays. Class starts at 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm. Club from 8:30 pm until late.
Location: - City Point, 1 Ropemaker Street, London EC2V 0HR, UK.
Admission: - £6 (Members). £7 (Non-Members).
For more on Digress, please see Salsa Flava.
ii. Question Bar.
New!!!
Are you in South East London on a Wednesday evening? Salsa Classes and Club at the Question Bar.
No need for a partner. Just pop along, learn some Salsa moves. Make friends, keep fit and have fun.
Beginners welcome and all levels catered for.
Time: - Wednesdays. Class - Absolute Beginners and Beginners: 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm.
Improvers and Intermediate: 8:30 pm - 9:30 pm. Club from 9:30 pm until late.
Location: - Question Bar, 45 - 47 Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3HN, UK.
Admission: - £6 Class and Club. Club only: Free.
Email:salicous@googlemal.com for more details and information.
2. Sydney, Australia.
Buena Vista Dance - Casa de la Musica @ The Marquee.
Take classes and enjoy Jam sessions (every second week) afterwards at the Marque, Camperdown, which has State of the Art sound and lighting and is located centrally with easy street parking and access.
Salsa Classes are given by Moro and Alegria from Buena Vista Dance from 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm. Then there is the club afterwards from 9:30 pm til late with various DJs (AV 'el Cubano', Ronnie and Cangri), Latin Jam sessions (The next Jam session is 13th September 2006) and occasional shows.
Time:
Wednesdays. 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm. Salsa Beginners. 8:30 pm - 9:30 pm. Salsa Intermediate. Then club from 9:30 pm till late.
Location:
The Marquee - Corner of Parramatta and Pyrmont Bridge Road, Camperdown, Sydney, Australia.
Admission:
For Class bookings call 0404 352131 (limited numbers available). Club Free (from 9:30 pm).
See Casa de La Musica for more details.
See you tomorrow.
Aubrey
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05-09-2006 10:23 pm - Salsa Clubs and Events Worldwide!!!
1. UK.
i. Salsa Me Gusta Party Night, Hemel Hempstead.
There will be a party this Saturday in Hemel Hempstead hosted by Salsa Me Gusta.
A Ladies Styling Class will be given by Dessy at 7:30 pm followed by an intermediate class with Dessy and an advanced class by Marchant Birch from 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm.
Dancing will follow until 12:30 am the next morning and everyone is welcome.
Time: - Saturday 9th September 2006. Class - Ladies Styling Class: 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm.
Improvers and Intermediate: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Club from 9:00 pm until 12:30 am.
Location: - Hemel FC, Vauxhall Rd, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 4HW, UK.
Admission: - £10 (includes Finger Buffet).
For more info please see Salsa Me Gusta.
ii. Salsa Tropical in The Forest, Essex, UK.
Salsa Tropical have Salsa Classes in Loughton Essex every Thursday.
The classes are for all levels and are from 8:15 pm - 9:15 pm. After that there is dancing until late.
Time: - Thursdays. Classes from 8:15 pm - 9:15 pm. Club from 9:15 pm until late.
Location: - Kings Oak Hotel, High Beach, Loughton, Essex, IG10 4AE, UK.
Admission: - £7 Class and Club. £25.00 - 4 classes. £3.00 - Club only.
For more details see Salsa Tropical at Kings Oak.
2. Los Angeles, USA.
Josie Neglia Dance Academy 1st Anniversary.
Help celebrate the 1st anniversary of the Josie Neglia Dance Academy's 1st Year Anniversary. Join students, staff and instructors at this Bash.
This night will be a chance for students to reunite with each other and for everyone to meet all the instructors. There will be a Jack and Jill contest, a JNDA Fashion Show and performances by all the professionals of JNDA.
You will have a chance to win prizes and classes at the JNDA school, and of course there will be lots of food and dancing for everyone.
Time: - Saturday 9th September 2006. 8:00 pm - midnight.
Venue: - 342 1/2 N. Ford Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90022.
Cost: $10 in advance or $15 at the door. RSVP before 5th Sept.
For more details on Josie Neglia Dance Academy, please check JNDA Anniversary Bash.
Bye for now. See you tomorrow.
Aubrey
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07-09-2006 5:07 am - More Worldwide Salsa Club News!!!
1. Australia.
i. Auslatin, Sydney.
Latin Dance Express. - Learn to Dance in a Day!
Are you a busy professional? Is your hectic social or family life preventing you from taking those regular weekly Salsa classes, preventing you learning those cool sexy moves that you have craved to execute for so long?
Then why not try the perfect class for you?
Auslatin are organising Salsa Express, a brand new workshop and social for beginners. Learn to dance Salsa in a day. Date is Sunday 17th September 2006.
For more details please see Salsa Express.
ii. Melbourne Salsa, Melbourne, Victoria.
Here are the updated events for Melbourne Salsa:
- Salsa in the City @ the Park Hayatt - is now on the last Friday of every month.
Salsa in the City @the Park Hyatt is now on the last Friday of the month. These are the upcoming dates for this event - please mark in your diary - Friday 29th Sep, 27th Oct, 24th Nov & 22nd Dec.
New entry fee of $20 now applies (includes 1 standard drink).
For more details visit Salsa in The City.
- Globe to Globe World Music Festival - This Sat 9th Sept & Sun 10th of Sept.
This year Globe 2 Globe features the best of Vietnam! Latin dance and music lovers will be catered for with Latin Bands and Salsa dance classes by Melbourne Salsa.
The Line Up for Saturday 9th Sept: From 5.45pm Melbourne Salsa dance classes plus Latin Bands Rumberos & Bahia.
Sunday 10th Sept: Latin Line Up: From 3.45pm Melbourne Salsa dance classes plus Latin band Carlitos Way.
Other Festival features & Activities: World Music & Folkloric stages, Tibetan Monks, Global Village Kitchen, Club Bollywood, African drumming workshops, Children's Village, Rides & Amusements, Fireworks display on Saturday 9.30pm.
For more details please see Globe 2 Globe.
- New Thursday night Salsa.
This is from the 21st September 2006 in South Melbourne. And it's free B4 10:30 pm.
For more details please see Golden Gate.
- Cuban Jazz Festival 06... Rochford Winery Yarra Valley Sunday October 29 2006.
Rochford Winery Rocks with the Cuban Vibe yet again. If you missed it last time here's your chance to experience the Latin fever amongst the Vines!
Featuring one of Melbourne's best Salsa bands Combo La Revelacion and dance classes by 'MELBOURNE SALSA'.
For more details please see Cuban Jazz Festival 2006.
- Melbourne Cup Eve, Monday 6th Nov 2006.
Melbourne Salsa celebrates 7 years of Latin music and dance in Melbourne. This will be another massive Latin dance party you cannot miss, so if you're not leaving the city on this weekend, the Melbourne Salsa birthday bash will be the place to be!
For more details later please check Melbourne Cup Eve.
- Salsa Cruise...Sunday 17th Dec 2006.
Sailing in Port Phillip Bay. sailing Port Phillip Bay. Yes! It's on again.
This is truly a sexy Salsa evening on board the multi-level Victorian Star sailing Port Phillip Bay. Featuring a live Latin band, DJ's, food, drink and a whole lot more.
For more details late check Salsa Cruise - Port Philip Bay.
2. UK.
i. Salsoteca, London.
Salsoteca has a new venue for Salsa and Reggaeton classes on a Monday.
For more details please see Salsoteca New Monday Night Classes.
ii. MamboCity, London.
- The Gallery.
Every Thursday is free club dancing at Gallery Hendon, come along and join in the fun, Classes from 7:30 followed by dancing to music by DJ
Please see The Gallery for more details.
- Friday night at Ealing Town Hall.
The Place To Be. Celebrate a Birthday, Anniversary or Hen Night. Book a table for groups of 6 or more and
receive a free bottle of bubbly. 2nd Friday of the month features guest Advance Instructor Dean Maynard.
For more details please see Friday Night with Mambo City, Ealing Town. Hall
That's all for now. See you tomorrow.
Aubrey
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Then please subscribe as shown at the top of this page or go to Subscribe Me where a full explanation is given.
08-09-2006 5:04 am - Salsa This Weekend and Beyond!!
1. USA.
Maraca and The New Collective, LA.
What is on?
Maraca and the New Collective, the best Cuban Dance band to visit the USA, is making a One Night Only Los Angeles appearance on Saturday 30th September 2006.
Cuba's Premier flutist and fine composer Maraca has been described as 'The most influential Afro-Cuban band of the emerging century' by Howard Reich of The Chicago Tribune, USA.
About Maraca.
Considered as one the hottest names in Afro-Cuban music by The Los Angeles Times, Orlando 'Maraca' Valle is highly appreciated for his spontaneously, celebratory, instrumentally thrilling music. His fusions embrace from Latin jazz to the most danceable tropical rhythms, and his spectacular live performances and multi-awarded recordings has made him famous all over the world.
He was the youngest Cuban artist ever nominated by the US National Recording Academy for Best salsa Album at the US Grammy Awards in 2003.
The Event.
On the night will be a Salsa Dance Concert and the latest Salsa tunes played by DJ Frank. All ages are welcome. Proper Dress Code required.
After 2:00 am DJ Saoco will be spinning the tunes. This venue is open until 4:00 am every Saturday.
Tickets.
Tickets are limited and are going very fast. $20 In Advance or Guest List. $25 Day of Event & at The Door.
Get your tickets now. Telephone: 310 445 9705.
Time: - Saturday 30th September 2006.
Location: - The Granada, 17 S First St, Alhambra, CA 91801. Telephone: 626 458 3265 (CLUB) .
Admission: - $20 In Advance or Guest List. $25 Day of Event & at The Door.
2. UK.
i. Salsology, Manchester.
Salsology's 2 monthly is here again. Manchester's premier Salsa event run by the talented Emma Moore is happening tomorrow, 8 September 2006. Why not try something different.
Have you ever wanted to try Tango? Well here's your chance. Salsology have invited Manchester’s Joel Daou to teach a 1.5 hour introductory workshop plus he’ll be playing some tango music in the second room after the class.
They also welcome back DJ Ian Finch from Liverpool who’ll be joining the resident DJs in the main room playing the very best in salsa, mambo and cha cha cha.
Features therefore of the next Salsology event will be:
- Introduction to Tango for 1.5 hours with Joel Daou.
- Special guest DJ Ian Finch plus Emma, Gary, Barry and Chris.
- Second room playing tango as well as salsa, merengue, bachata.
- THE most amazing venue with huge polished wooden dancefloor.
- Friendly, buzzing atmosphere with 400 plus dancers.
- And much more.
The venue for Salsology will be: Longfield Centre, Prestwich, Manchester M25 1AY
For more on Salsology's next event please see Salsology.
ii. SalsaVillage, Bedfordshire.
Salsa Village will be hosting a Salsa Party on Friday 29th September 2006. Join the Party and dance the night away to the Latin rhythms in a vibrant and colorful atmosphere. Everyone's welcome.
What to expect at the event:
- Buffet - Sandwich and buffet selections are provided on a self-service basis.
- Excellent Teachers at all Levels.
- Free car parking.
- Bar.
- Air Conditioning.
- Wooden flooring.
- Excellent sound system.
- Comfortable seating area.
Time: - Friday 29th September 2006. 7:30 pm -12:00 am.
Location: - The Kent Athletic Club Tenby Drive, Luton, LU4 9BN.
Admission: - £8:00.
Ordering Your Tickets. - By Phone - Telephone: 07709 778 091. By post: 95 Maple road West, Luton, Bed's LU48BQ.
You must provide a self-addressed and stamped envelope for the return of your ticket.
For more information, please see SalsaVillage Salsa Party.
That's all for now. See you tomorrow.
Aubrey
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Then please subscribe as shown at the top of this page or go to Subscribe Me where a full explanation is given.
12-09-2006 4:47 am - Salsa Congresses and more Salsa Congresses!!!
Hi Folks.
1. More news on the UK Salsa Congress organised by Paul Young
- Artists.
The UK Salsa Congress welcomes on board the award winning Kerry Ribchester fresh back from her travels in Cuba and straight to the Congress.
PLUS MC Magico the rising UK Reggaeton star who will be doing a guest PA in the Urban Jam room flanked by his hot dancers!
- Irene Miguel International Salsa Congress Performance Group The Mambo Lifestyle (ML) Performance Group will be doing a road show across London during the second week in September.
This road show will climax at their live performance at the UK International Salsa Congress. Dates not to miss include:
- Monday 11th BAR SALSA. Gone but they were fantastic.
- Wednesday 13th LA FINCA (AKA Clock Work).
- Thursday 14th BAR SALSA.
- Sat 16th MAMBOCITY THE PRODIGAL.
- Party Only Passes on Sale Now.
Available to book on-line Party Passes (£109)* and Day Passes (£85) now on sale. Remember to get in quick, as there is a limited supply!
* Must be booked with accommodation.
More on the UK Salsa Congress in the coming week or so or see UK Salsa Congress.
2. More news on the 5th Annual SF Bay Area Salsa Congress organised by Pretty Boys and Girls Productions.
Pretty Boys and Girls Productions Inc in association with Albert Torres Productions, brings you the best in Live Salsa Dance entertainments at the 5th Annual SF Bay Salsa Congress from 16th - 19th November 2006 !
This year there will be dancing until 4:00 am in the morning!
- Thursday 16th November will be the PreCongress Party at Cocomo's in San Francisco.
- Friday 17th November: Workshops during the day. Then Dance Performances and dancing to the New Swing Sextet in the evening.
- Saturday 18th November: Again Workshops during the day. Then Gala Night - Dancing to Sonora Carruseles de Colombia and again Dance Performances.
- Sunday 19th November: Workshops during the day. Then in the evening Dancers's Delight- Dancing to the best of the World all night.
Also on Sunday Night will be the highly prestigious SF BAY AREA INTERNATIONAL DANCE COMPETITION.
- * * *JUST ADDED FOR SUNDAY AFTERNOON: ALL LEVEL Jack & Jill Dance Competition and 4:00 pm in the evening...the MASTERS Jack & Jill Dance Competition!!! Come see all of your favourite instructors and performers battle it out spontaneously on the dance floor!
All events will be held at the Oakland Marriott City Convention Center. Open to the public and all ages are welcome.
Visit the web site Pretty Boys and Girls or call 408-265-3775 for ticket sales and prices.
See you tomorrow with more Salsa News.
Aubrey
P. S. Would you like to get these Salsa updates sent to you automatically?
Then please subscribe as shown at the top of this page or go to Subscribe Me where a full explanation is given.
13-09-2006 7:27 am - More on the latest Salsa Congresses!!!
Hi Folks.
1. Yet more news on the UK Salsa Congress organised by Paul Young
- Pre Congress Party in London.
Thursday 21 September. 9.30 pm - Late.
Featuring: Hacha Y Machete, SalsaMania, Salsa Dance Squad, Joel & Ania, U-Tribe, Farid Ferchach, Jaime Jesus & Little Liz, Oliver Pineda and Luda Kroitor, Tony Lara & Serial Dancers and many more.
Cost :£5 b4 10 pm. £8 thereafter.
Venue: The Cafe Rez - Colosseum. 1, Nine Elms Lane, Vauxhall, London SW8 5NQ.
Please note: The Cafe Rez and the Colosseum are two different venues next to each other. I'm still not sure exactly where the event is being held but I would assume it is at the Colesseum which is a bigger venue.
Looks like I will have to make some investigations. I will let you know.
- UK Congress Awards.
The competition is really heating up with all to play for and here is a sneak preview of the top 3 contenders for each Category. Names are in Alphabetcal order not position: However remember everything can change between now and the UK Salsa Congress event so cast your votes now.
Best UK Teacher Award
Lee Hunter - Marchant Birch - SuperMario
Best UK Dance Act Award
Leon & Susana - Marchant & Miriam - Iris & Osbanis
Best DJ Award
Gabriel - Mauricio Reyes - Tony Lara
Best International Dance Act Award
Hacha Y Machete - Swinguys - Tropical Gem
Best International Teacher Award
Edie The Salsa Freak (US) - Morry (Holland) - Tony Lara (Italy)
Is your favourite there and if so are they in the right position? If not then get your votes in to Salsa UK.
- Artists.
Irene Miguel International Salsa Congress Performance Group The Mambo Lifestyle (ML) Performance Group has started doing a road show across London during the second week in September.
This road show will climax at their live performance at the UK International Salsa Congress.
She and her group have already performed at Bar Salsa on Monday 11th September 2006. The other dates not to be miss include:
- Wednesday 13th LA FINCA (AKA Clock Work). Tonight
- Thursday 14th BAR SALSA.
- Sat 16th MAMBOCITY THE PRODIGAL.
More on the UK Salsa Congress in the coming week or so and why I think this is one of the best Salsa Congresses in the world or see UK Salsa Congress.
2. And yet more news on the 5th Annual SF Bay Area Salsa Congress organised by Pretty Boys and Girls Productions.
Pretty Boys and Girls Productions Inc in association with Albert Torres Productions, brings you the best in Live Salsa Dance entertainments at the 5th Annual SF Bay Salsa Congress from 16th - 19th November 2006 !
This year there will be dancing until 4:00 am in the morning!
- DJ's?Social Dancing? So you want more of this eh?
All day each day, there will be another room where you can all hang out and just dance! Not only will the party run until 4:00 am at the Marriott, there will also be dancing to some of the hottest DJ's on the planet, if you want to skip the shows, in another room!
Here is the line up:
- DJ FRANK (LA)
- DJ FAB FRED (SF)
- DJ TONY O (SF)
- DJ LA COQUI (SF)
- DJ MARGARITA (HAWAII)
- DJ EL DE LA CLAVE (SF)
and for the first time at the SF BAY AREA SALSA CONGRESS...
- DJ HENRY KNOWLES(NY)
It's going to be an incredible party all weekend, and they close it off with the SUNDAY Night, DANCER'S DELIGHT! with the Top DJ's in the world spinning for you until 3am!
- Top International Salsa Dance Instructors & Performers:
(Not a complete list, subject to change)
- Tito & Tamara (Puerto Rico)
- Swing Guys (Italia)
- Hacha Y Machete (Boston)
- Francisco Vasquez Y Los Rumberos(LA)
- Yamulee (NY)
- Cobo Brothers (NC)
- Ismael Otero & Carribean Soul (NJ)
- D & G (Italia)
- Al Liquid Silver (LA)
- Jayson Molina (Puerto Rico)
- Liz Lira (LA)
- Salsa y Control (Boston)
- Sonia & Moris and San Tropez (Montreal)
- Majesty in Motion (SD)
More to be confirmed...complete list to be posted soon. Check the website: SF Bay Salsa Congress
- From the SF BAY AREA:
- Ricardo & Michelle and PB&G Productions (SF) Current World Salsa Champions
- Junior & Emily (SF) Ranked 2nd in the World
- John & Liz & Salsamania (OAK) (Bay Area Team Champions)
- Ricardo Tellez & Ricasalsa (SF)
- Ava Apple (SF)
- Gabriel Romero (OAK)
- Isidro & Sheila (Bay Area)
- Yemaya (Sac)
- Afinkao (Bay Area)
- La Evolucion (Bay Area)
More to be confirmed.
Visit the web site Pretty Boys and Girls or call 408-265-3775 for ticket sales and prices.
See you tomorrow with more Salsa News.
Aubrey
P. S. Would you like to get these Salsa updates sent to you automatically?
Then please subscribe as shown at the top of this page or go to Subscribe Me where a full explanation is given.
14-09-2006 5:17 am - Salsa Events!!
1. UK.
This Saturday 16th September 2006 there is a choice of 2 Salsa events to go to. You have a choice of:
i. Mambo City, London.
Mambo City have their usual 3 weekly Salsa Club event at Prodigal this Saturday. On the night playing the latest tunes will be DJs Lubi Jovanovic, Julian "The Duke" & Cruz.
There will also be a Dance Performance by Irene Miguel & Mambo Life Style Dance Co. They performed at Bar Salsa and La Finca on Monday and Wednesday respectively this week and are performing at Bar Salsa again tonight Thursday 14th September.
They will be performing at the up-and-coming UK Salsa Congress organised by Paul Young next weekend.
Before the performances and the dancing there will be Classes:
- Bachata Class for all Levels with Ariel Robert.
- Salsa Classes for Beginner/Improvers with the Mambo City Team.
There will then be music, video's and dancing including the Dance Performance until 3:00 am.
Time: - Saturday 16th September 2006. Doors open @8pm. Free Dance Classes simultaneously @8:30pm.
Venue: - The Prodigal, Corner of Wood Street/Love Lane, St Pauls, London, EC2V 7JQ .
Cost: £10 (£8 Members, £8 NUS, Member Free Before 9pm).
or you can go to:
ii. Salsa Fusion, London.
Salsa Fusion (1 venue - 2 Rooms Fully Air Conditioned) has its usual twice a month event although you do have to check their web site as this is sometimes not normally he case.
Guest teacher this Saturday will be Nadeen with a FREE Boogaloo class @9:15 pm. This will be followed by dancing to DJ Ara in the Salsa Room (100% Authentic SALSA For Real SALSEROS) and DJ Luis(El Pana) in the Fusion Room until 2:00 am.
Time: - Saturday 16th September 2006. Doors open @9:00 pm. Free Dance Classes @9:15 pm. Then dancing until 2:00 am.
Venue: - 229 Great Portland Street. London W1.
Cost: £8:00
For more on Salsa Fusion please see articles Salsa Fusion 1 and Salsa Fusion 2.
2. USA.
Special Dance Classes by Denise Renee, LA.
i. The Classes.
Albert Torres recommends the following workshop of Integrated Dance And Movement for dancers, actors and singers. Here is a great opportunity to take a Unique dance class with a Master Dance Teacher, Denise Renee, and learn to integrate the movement of other dances into your Salsa.
ii. Who is Denise Renee?
Denise Renee is very proud to be bringing her Integrated Dance Method to the Dance Department for Circus Theatricals. Denise has had the opportunity to study under some of the most respected dance educators in the country. She trained extensively with Ballet Met, The Columbus Theatre Ballet Association, The Chamber Ballet and was selected to study with Michael Maul and Lupe Serrano at The National Academy of Dance.
She has studied tap with Brenda Fluor and with Jim Taylor in Los Angeles. Denise received a dance scholarship from Ohio University and also majored in Dance at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Denise's professional dance career has taken her to theatrical stages around the world in places such as Japan, Panama, Mexico, Canada and has toured extensively through out the United States.
She is a member of the Circus Theatricals Studio Ensemble and has choreographed 'The Circle', and most recently
'Iphigenia' for Circus Theatricals. Denise is a member of The Screen Actors Guild and Actors Equity Association.
For the past 18 years, Denise has taught hundreds of dance students at her Academy in Murrieta. Many of her students have gone on to professional dance careers of their own. Denise's students perform professionally for Broadway National Tours, LA Laker Girls, Holland America Cruise Lines, Disney Land, Lawrence Welk Resort Theatre, Las Vegas Stages, Music Videos, Commercials, Television and Film.
iii. About the classes and workshops.
The whole idea behind dance training is to discover and develop your own unique capacity for expression and movement. It can allow you to get in touch with sides of yourself previously unknown or un-experienced which, once discovered, can be brought to your theatrical journey. Denise Renee has created this dance movement class to enhance the theatrical experience for actors and singers.
Through her 25 years of teaching dance, Denise has developed a method of instructing that uses mental imagery, ideas, concepts and imagination to bring forth movement that is free of strain and tension thus allowing the body a greater capacity of freedom and of self expression.
In this hour and a half class the dancer will begin the mind/body connection which will cultivate movements that stem from an inner purpose. Stretching, breathing, isolated body movements, ballet and jazz technique will be taught as the framework for our journey of self-discovery. Choreography and musicality will also be emphasized as well.
Learning to dance takes time, patience, concentration (relaxed effort with focus), self- acceptance and also a good
sense of humour!
iv. To Sign Up.
Telephone Denise Renee: (818) 400-1665 or e-mail: deniserenee-ada@prodigy.net.
Time: - Starting Saturday 16th September 2006. 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm.
Venue: - The Hayworth Theatre Center, 2511 Wiltshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90057. The main dance room on the second floor. Enter through side entrance on 643 Carondelet.
Cost:$60 per month. $40 per month for Circus Theatricals members. $20 trial class.
That's all for now. See you tomorrow.
Aubrey
P. S. Would you like to get these Salsa updates sent to you automatically?
Then please subscribe as shown at the top of this page or go to Subscribe Me where a full explanation is given.
21-09-2006 4:28 am - The UK Salsa Congress! Almost here!
Hi Folks.
Yes! There are less than 2 days to go the UK Salsa Congress which is organised by Paul Young. This is turning out to be one of the most popular Salsa events on the globe and is a favourite of many of the performers and attendees alike.
Why is this event so popular? Well I am in a good position to answer that. I have been to all the UK Salsa Congresses since it started in 2002 and have seen it grow into what it is today.
So why is it so popular then? Well, here in my humble opinion are the reasons.
1. The International and Local performers.
The UK Salsa Congress attracts some of the biggest Salsa performers from around the globe. These performers include no other than:
- Edie The Salsa Freak.
- Juan Matos.
- Oliver Pineda and Luda Kroitor - World Salsa Champions twice over.
- Pretty Boys and Girls - World Salsa Team Champions.
- Johnny Vasquez.
- Tropical Gem.
- Jaime Jesus and Little Liz.
- Tito and Tamara.
- Hacha Y Machete.
and our own
- Leon Rose.
- Susanna Montero.
- Marchant and Miriam
- Super Mario.
- Laith Sami.
- Emma Moore and Mushi.
and many more.
The UK Salsa Congress has always attracted big star names since its inception in 2002. The stars that came previously were:
In 2002:
- Nelson Flores.
- Salsa Brava.
- Edie and Al Espinosa.
- Nancy Ortiz.
In 2003:
- Frankie Martinez.
- Janet Fuentes and Jhesus Aponte.
- Jay and Candy
Most of these plus a lot more have been coming year after year. They obviously see the UK Salsa Congress as somewhere in which to raise their profile.
To be honest before the Salsa Congresses came to these shores there was one event which dominated the Salsa 'Weekend event' Scene in the late 1990's and earlier 2000's. This was good for a while (I actually was attending about 4 times a year). However the Congresses with it's variety of instructors in different dance styles, the stunning shows from the stars from different countries and the chance to dance with someone of a different dance style has in my opinion somewhat paled this original event in comparison.
Although this event still exists, Salsa Congresses are here to stay especially as new ones are starting in a different country on a regular basis.
It is a global phenomena.
2. Butlins Global Villagey feel.
Butlins (as a Salsa venue for the UK Salsa Congress) has a reputation now for having it's very own atmosphere. As one of the performers at this year's event quoted 'The UK Salsa Congress at Butlins is like a Disney Land for Salsa'.
When the UK Salsa Congress started in 2002, it did not have exclusive access to the Butlins Resort. Also all the activities in the evening was dispersed in different buildings resulting in having to queue up in the cold (it was cold then at the end of September but the weather nowadays seems to be improving) for the evening shows.
I remember many people having their coats on while watching the shows. When the shows finished you had to go to another building to dance.
However things are different 4 years on.
The UK Salsa Congress has exclusive use of Butlins for the whole weekend which means everyone is a Salsa enthusiast (why else would you want to spend 3 days and nights there?) and all the main evening activities (shows and main dance area) are in one building (normally the Centre Stage if I remember correctly).
This gives Butlins at this weekend a real Global Villagey feel.
Global in the sense you have people from every continent i.e in Europe, The Americas, South America, Australia, Asia and Africa meeting in this village type atmosphere over 3 days just to dance and enjoy Salsa.
Villagey in the fact that all accommodation and activities are close by. So there is always a buzz of activity around the main areas with the clothes and DVD stalls, people going to different classes and people just generally seeing old faces and greeting old and new friends.
Also you do not have to go anywhere for anything else as Butlins caters for everything.
There is the regular restaurant, a supermarket, a laundrette, a hire shop for electrical gadgets etc, a medical centre and a swimming pool. There is also an Internet cafe.
Taxis can be ordered from the main gate or ringing a special number.
For those who want to venture outside the resort, there is Bognor Regis town centre close by where you can venture to Sainsbury etc.
More on why this 'Salsa Congress is so popular' will be brought to you tomorrow.
Aubrey
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21-09-2006 7:10 pm - The UK Salsa Congress! Last Call!!
Hi again Folks.
Continuing from yesterday on why the UK Salsa Congress which is organised by Paul Young is so popular.
3. The choice of accommodation.
You can choose the accommodation depending on your needs.
There are basically 2 types of accommodation.
i. Chalet Style:
- Half Board.
Here the accommodation comes with breakfast and evening dinner. It ranges from Gold to Silver to Standard depending on the standard of the accommodation and the services you receive.
- Self Catering.
You may decide you want to cook yourself. Here your accommodation comes with a kitchenette with cooker, fridge and microwave. The accommodation standard ranges are as per Half Board.
- Deluxe.
This accommodation is different from the chalets in that they consist of Townhouses. These are on a Half Board basis only.
Included in this accommodation are a balcony, personal parking space, a complimentary bottle of wine, DVD player, 2nd TV in master bedroom and a cleaning maid each morning on top of the other basic amenities.
ii. The Skyline Hotel.
OK. So you decide that you want to make a mini break of the Salsa Congress but want the experience of going on a holiday. Butlins Bognor Regis have built the Shoreline Hotel to cater for such cravings.
There are three standards of accommodation rooms:
- Hooks Cabin.
This has the basic amenities as well as Floor to ceiling windows, Air cooling, Kids own TV/DVD, Kids sleeping area with bunk beds, Free travel cot hire and Fridge.
- Columbus Quarters.
This has all of the Hooks Cabin amenities as well as a choice of partial sea view or patio.
- Nelson Staterooms.
These are the most luxurious rooms and include all the features of Columbus Quarters and Hook's Cabins plus:
- Private balcony with partial sea view or patio
- Separate kids room
- Fantastic sea views
- Reserved parking
- Flatscreen TV
- Two comfy sofas
- Bath robes and slippers
There is also a restaurant, a bar and the normal hotel services and facilities.
So as you see instead of having no choice as some other Salsa Congresses have of just having a choice of a room, you can choose the accommodation depending on your budget, tastes and mood.
4. The proximity of the accommodation to the main event areas.
One of the big advantages of the Butlins Site is the fact that the accommodation and activities' areas are all in the same place. No having to travel to a distant hotel or waiting for a coach or trying to find a parking space. Once you're there, you're there!!
This is what gives Butlins that Villagey and as someone said 'Disneyland but with Salsa' feel.
I went to the LA Salsa Congress this year (See my Blogs here (LA Salsa Congress Part 1, LA Salsa Congress Part 2, LA Salsa Congress Part 3, LA Salsa Congress Part 4, LA Salsa Congress Part 5, LA Salsa Congress Part 6, LA Salsa Congress Part 7 and LA Salsa Congress Part 8) and all activities were at 'SalsaLand' but the accomodations were scattered 5 miles or so away. This meant after the classes etc you could either mill around or go back to your hotel to relax. After the classes there is not that much else to do as any facilities as mentioned at Butlins would be at the hotel.
However at Butlins you have the freedom to go back to your accommodation when you like as it takes 5 - 10 minutes tops to walk back to your accommodation.
So after their Salsa Classes everyone would be chatting, buying Salsa clothes and CD's, doing their personal shopping chatting with friends and generally milling around. This is what gives Butlins that Villagey feel to it.
Of course you could go back to your room or chalet after the classes to relax without having to wait for a coach or to drive. No hassle!!
In the evening you can dance til you drop as you know that even if you are dog tired you can drag yourself back to your room and five or so minutes and just plonk into bed.
5. The people.
Of course the Salsa Congresses would be nothing without the people.
I love the Congresses because you meet people from all over the Globe i.e North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa etc and even a different part of the UK, and they all dance with different styles, some people having a range of styles.
6. Conclusion.
So there you are. That is my opinion of the UK Salsa Congress.
But that is only my opinion. So the best way to find out about this Salsa Congress is to go yourself and you'll be the best judge of that.
Still want to go? Then go to UK Salsa Congress.
7. Future Salsa Blogs.
As you probably know by now I'm off to the UK Salsa Congress today myself. (Well I have to have a break from these daily Salsa Blogs, haven't I?)
Well not really daily Salsa Blogs. I started these Blogs in March this year (2006) and have been sending you Salsa News daily apart from the odd occasion. I missed about 6 days this week up to yesterday for which I apologise.
As I'm off to the UK Salsa Congress this will be the last Blog until Tuesday 26th September. However I will bring you all the news, views and gossip in my Blogs and articles.
I have been to all the UK Salsa Congresses and have always stayed in the Chalets and Townhouses. However I will be in the Shoreline Hotel this year (treating myself to the Nelson Stateroom), so I will let you know what that is like.
Any way, bye for now and I will see you on 26th September.
Aubrey
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27-09-2006 5:42 am - Salsa News returns!!
Hi folks,
1. Synopsis of UK Salsa Congress 2006.
I am back from the UK Salsa Congress. It was great!
The Salsa Congress atmosphere, The onsite Shoreline Hotel, The Butlins Village like atmosphere which makes this Congress unique, all made for a good weekend.
The format was slightly different from the previous Salsa Congresses and there were a few (good) surprises.
I will be reporting on my experience of my 3 days at the Salsa Congress starting from tomorrow. But we will first start off today with some snippets of other Salsa Congress News.
2. Other Salsa Congresses to consider.
Has the UKSalsa Congress whetted your appettite for these events? Well here are few others to consider:
- The Brit Salsafest 2007.
The Salsa Congress promoted by Paul Young in association with Emma Moore and Salsology will be in it's 2nd year, the first year being an unmitigated success.
The Ballroom of the Winter Gardens in Blackpool is something to behold. This is the perfect setting for something such as a Salsa Congress as this is probably the best venue of its kind in Europe hosting many International Dance Competitions and the TV Series 'Come Dancing'.
Artists taking part so far are:
- Swinguys - Italy
- Hacha y Machete - USA
- Santo Rico (tbc) - USA
- Jessica Ortiz - USA
- Lori Perez - USA
- Johnny Vasquez - USA
- Ramon Morales - UK
- Edie ‘The Salsa Freak’ - USA
- Leon Rose - UK
- Susana Montero - UK
- Mushi and Emma - UK
- Marchant and Miriam - UK
For mor details please see Brit Salsafest 2007.
- The Canada Salsa Congress 2006.
This is now in its 4th year. Described as the Canadian Salsa Event of the year this takes place in the Sheraton Centre Hotel, Toronto from 5th - 9th October 2006.
The artists taking part so far are:
- Oliver Pineda and Luda Kroitor - Australia
- Al and Karla Espinosa - USA
- Tito and Tamara - Puero Rico
- SuperMario - UK
and many more.
For more information please check The Canadian Salsa Congress.
- The Munich Salsa Congress 2006.
This is the first Munich Salsa Congress which came about after the success of shows by Frankie Martinez, Leon Rose and Susan Montero among others. Stars taking part are Juan Matos - USA, Ruby Karen and David Nieto - LA, USA, Super Mario - UK, Susan Montero - UK and many, many more.
For more details please see Munich Salsa Congress 2006.
- 2nd International Warsaw Salsa Festival.
This takes place on 10th - 12th November and is presented by Salsalibre Dance Studios.
The atrists on show will be SuperMario - UK, Orville Small - Canada, Mario B - USA, Osbanis and Iris DeBrito - UK and more.
See 2nd Warsaw Salsa Congress for more details.
Do you like Cuban Salsa. Then consider this:
- 1st Cuban Salsa Congress.
This takes place from 3rd - 6th November 2006 in the UK with Rafael and Janet - Cuba, Osbanis - Cuba and UK, Yessica and more.
See 1st Cuban Salsa Congress.
- A Cuban Salsa Dance Holiday.
Have you wondered why you should go on a Dance holiday?
Well here are the reasons why.
See you tomorrow with more Salsa News.
Aubrey
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28-09-2006 5:44 am - UK Salsa Congress Day 1!!
Hi Folks,
As promised I will give you a report on the UK Salsa Congress 2006.
1. The Journey to Bognor Regis.
At last the day has come where I have to set off to Butlins in Bognor for the 5th UK Salsa Congress.
I love going to Salsa Congresses. I treat it as a break from work as I work very hard during the year and it is my way of relaxing and letting go even though I dance on average twice a week. My last such break was at the West Coast Salsa Congress in May 2006.
Any way I decided to leave fairly early about (2.00 pm but eventually left at 3.20 pm), as I wanted to check and relax in the hotel room (and perhaps do a bit of work on the Internet) before I begin the holiday proper. I wanted to arrive at about 5:00 pm but despite leaving after 3:00 pm I still had hopes of arriving around 5:45 pm - 6:00 pm.
Wrong!! The journey took me nearly 5 hours. There were hold ups on the M25 (The motorway around London) and the beginning of the A3 (the road leading towards the direction to Butlins). I arrived about 8:10 pm.
Well there went my first 2 hours of relaxing and taking it easy. Anyway at least I arrived safely and was able to test my new ('change of' not 'brand new') car which I bought 2 days earlier on a long run (about 225 miles).
2. Registering and booking in the Shoreline Hotel.
Well since I arrived late I decided to register and then relax in my hotel room before joining the festivities.
I decided to check into my hotel first. I did not realise it was so near. Is is slap, bang next to the main festivities. It could not be much nearer. I went to reception and checked into my room. It was pretty straight forward and took only about 5 minutes or so including looking for my name on the list.
I then went to my room which was on the first floor. It was pleasant. Ceiling to floor windows, a 'balcony', sea view,
air conditioning, DVD, wide screen TV etc. I just took a cursory glance then made sure I could operate the air conditioning and other controls (did not have time to explore), went to get my suitcase and bag from the car, dumped them in the room and then went to register for the Salsa Congress.
This turned out to be very easy was well. After queuing up for about 10- 15 minutes it was just a case of finding my name on the list giving me my wrist band and programs and Viola!! Time to go and enjoy the Congress.
I went back to unpack my belongings. It was now about 10:00 pm and I had wanted to watch the shows. However driving for 5 hours was taking it's toll so after unpacking I decided to relax in bed watching some TV and eventually dropped off to sleep briefly.
3. The shows and first night's dancing.
It was 11.30 pm when I awoke and decided to embark to the entertainment area to start the 'Salsa Congress Proper'. It takes about 2 minutes to walk to the main entertainment centre (called the Centre Stage where all the shows and main dancing takes place). Beats having to wait for a coach or drive from a distant hotel. Saves you a lot of dancing time.
I got to the Centre Stage about 12;00 pm and the 2nd part of the shows was about to begin. I had missed the 1st part which included some home grown talent such as Mauro and Eva, Moe Flex and Angelique, and Osbanis and Iris Debrito. However I saw 5 shows which included the world renowned Salsa Group Salsa Dance Squad, a new Salsa Group 'Big Spenders' and home grown groups Irene Miguel's 'Mambo Life Style' and the UK's latest Salsa Dance couple Marchant Birch and Miriam Oppel.
The rest of the shows finished about 1:00 am. Now for the dancing.
I had met a London friend of mine, Marianna, on the way in and we watched the shows together and had the first dance. She is from Norway but lives in London and came to the UK because of - guess what - The London and UK salsa scene.
It was now pretty crowded. One thing I must say. If you see someone you want to dance with grab them at the first opportunity because the chance of seeing them again the same night is nil. So I had 2 dances with Mariam who is a pretty good dancer (I did not see her again that night).
I then walked around the room and had a few dances. There were with people I have danced with in London or people I have not seen before. The dance floor is circular so it's easy to walk around and dance with whoever you please (if they accept of course). This was different from the West Coast Salsa Congress in Salsaland where the dance floor consisted of 4 squares and you had to walk along the strips to get to someone who you wanted to dance with. Invariably by the time you got to them they were gone (i.e. dancing with someone else). You would understand if you were at this Salsa Congress.
Anyway I believe this Congress is now back in the hotels from next year. I wonder why?
After a few dances I decided to take some video pictures with my camcorder. However it was too dark and after videoing very little gave up on the idea, taking my camcorder back to the room soon after. I realised after that they put some bright lights in some selected areas (I found out it was Show Off's Corner - Brilliant. Exactly what I wanted) and decided to do my videoing after I did most of my dancing, about 3:00 - 4:00 pm.
After some more dancing it began to thin out about 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm. This is very early for me. However it was Friday, the first night. A lot of people come late on a Friday night and do not start there festivities the next day with the classes. I began to run out of partners and decided to retire for the night. Anyway I had the whole weekend to look forward to.
I decided to go to the Reggaeton venue at 'Jaks' but there were about 20 people and was not that lively. I tend to stay in the Salsa Room most of the time, firstly normally venturing to the Cuban Room just after the Shows. Jaks is opposite my hotel so deciding to go to bed and actually being in bed took about 5 minutes. See what I mean by the convenience of the accommodation being close to the activities?
See you tomorrow with day 2 of the UK Salsa Congress 2006.
Aubrey
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4.The first night's dancing.
UK Salsa Congress 2006
29-09-2006 10:23 pm - UK Salsa Congress Day 2!! Part 1
Hi Folks,
More on the UK Salsa Congress 2006.
1. My First Impressions of the Shoreline Hotel Room.
I awoke about 8:00 am and was looking forward to the day's events of workshops, the competitions, the evening shows and the evening dancing my (favourite activity).
I drew the curtains and the sun simply streamed in. As I said the room had ceiling to floor windows so it was quite pleasant. I have been to this Salsa Congress every year and it has always been grey and overcast at this time of the year in Bognor Regis but this year the weather has been quite pleasant. It seems to be the norm as recent years it seems to be becoming warmer and warmer.
However I looked outside and noticed I was on the ground level (although the hotel room was on the 1st floor). They did advertise the room as having floor to ceiling windows, a balcony and sea view. However as this was on the ground level the balcony was actually a patio.
As for the sea view as long as you were a champion high jumper or pole vaulter with good eyesight you may just see the sea. I jumped up to see if I could. I was not sure it was there.
However I noticed there were only two of these rooms on the 1st floor. The others were on the 2nd floor or above (there were 12 such rooms). I looked up from my 1st floor patio and sure enough, there were the balconies as advertised.
Ah well! I'll make sure that I book a similar room on a higher floor next time and make sure I can see the sea from there.
2. Videoing Hacha Y Machete.
I had a nice soak in the bath, had a huge English breakfast (I was starving) and had a look at the day's program. As I said earlier I was here mainly for the evening dancing and was not bothered about taking too many workshops.
I planned to do a workshop at 12:00 pm after using the Internet at Butlins Internet Cafe at around 10:00 am. However it was closed for the weekend due to a technical problem, reopening on the Monday following the UK Salsa Congress. So I had time to kill doing something else.
However there were lots of options.
There were a lot of artists giving workshops, namely Pretty Boys and Girls, Swing Guys (whose class I did a year previously) and Marchant and Miriam to name a few but I chose Hacha Y Machete (I was going to video the workshop not do it).
They are quite world renowned especially in the UK but modestly do not actually think they are that famous in the Salsa world.
They did an 'Advanced Turn Patterns Partner Work On 2' Class, so I thought videoing it I would pick up some tips or even use some of it on my web site.
A bit about me and classes. I learn in classes up to a certain point. After that it gets more difficult (I am a slow learner in a class. I do not pick up things very quickly but once I practice the moves a few times it's a lot easier).
After all you are learning someone else's moves. I find that some time after you dance socially you tend to develop your own moves on the dance floor which comes naturally to you.
Most of the moves I have are my own. I do not even know what they are. All I know is I am comfortable doing it.
If I go to a class and I am not picking up a move properly, I do not beat up myself about it. You do what you do best naturally and that is dancing in the Salsa clubs.
Anyway I videoed Hacha Machete. They had a packed and appreciative class. They seemed to be good teachers explaining everything properly and going over certain moves. Most people seemed to be getting it.
I videoed them breaking down the moves and then videoed them and then the students practicing these moves to music.
Another thing about classes is that I tend to want to move naturally and breaking the moves takes 10 times as long which is frustrating. I cannot remember the amount of times I went to a class and the instructor would break down a particular move and I would not get it. However when I finally get the move and I dance as normal l recognise it as a move that I have been doing for years.
Has that ever happened to you? This is why I think my best source of learning is on the social dance floor.
3. The Salsa Competitions.
After Hacha's workshop I milled around a bit, decided to meet a friend for coffee at lunchtime then after remembering there was a competition at that time (1:00 pm), decided to have our coffee in the competition.
This was the first time they had a competition at the UK Salsa Congress. Before that there were just showcases. This competition format was done at this year's West Coast Salsa Congress and was being repeated here (as well as I think other Salsa Congresses around the Globe).
This was the heats of the 'European Salsa Open for Couples'. There were 17 couples which included 3 from the UK and there were also couples from Holland, Switzerland, Australia, India and a few other countries. They danced all together at first, then in groups of three. Eventually they chose 12 to go into the Semi-Final on Sunday lunchtime with the Final in the early evening the same day.
The couples that went into the semi-final included all three British couples as well as two Australian couples and a couple from Holland.
Incidentally the winners of this competition would go on to participate in the World Open Championships in Las Vegas organised by Albert Torres and the 'Salsa Seven' on 14th - 17th December 2006.
Very exciting!! This makes a refreshing change to the Format of the Salsa Congress.
4. Workshop with Oliver Pineda and Luda Kroitor.
I decided to do only one Workshop today. And I was determined to do it with Oliver Pineda and Luda Kroitor who I saw at the West Coast Salsa Congress this year and I thought they were absolutely amazing.
They did a Body Isolation Class teaching you how to combine your Salsa Dancing with shoulder rolls, hip movements and body rolls. This class showed there is more to Salsa Dancing than learning a few (or a lot of) moves. It is not what or how many moves you know that would make you a good dancer, but also how you execute those moves.
This Workshop was a good example of how to execute Salsa Moves with style. At first glance it seems that you have to be a contortionist to perform the moves but they should come with practice.
It was a good Workshop and I enjoyed it. It was certainly good for exercising your joints.
5. Coming next time - The Spectacular Evening shows and Social Dancing including UK band Salsa Celtica.
Aubrey
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