Nelson is Director and co-founder of New York’s legendary Descarga Latina Dance Company and has for many years been regarded as one of THE leading on2 salsa (mambo) teachers IN THE WORLD.
He learned his first basic steps from Angel Rodriguez of “Razz M’Tazz” as well as footwork shines from Evelyn Leon and partnerwork techniques from Mario Diaz before meeting the legendary Wilton Beltre (of Santo Rico fame). Nelson’s talent soon led to him being invited to join a number of troupes including Fuerza Latina, Mario Diaz Dance Revue and The Santo Rico Dance Co, but he is most famous for his work with his own team Descarga Latina which he formed with several leading lights of the NY Salsa scene in the 1990s.
What started as a small Salsa dance troupe evolved into perhaps the most famous latin dance production company in the world in 2000-2001 when they were instrumental in directing, choreographing and producing the Off-Broadway musical comedy hit Latin Madness. Described as Salsa’s answer to Riverdance, this smash hit show toured the globe for the next 2 years transforming the international latin dance scene and elevating NY Salsa to its present status.
Today as well as continuing to train aspiring dancers, Nelson travels the world teaching and performing Salsa, Mambo, Cha Cha and even Latin Hustle and his reputation has led to him being invited to judge scores of international competitions including the World Salsa Competition sponsored by sports network giant ESPN.

At this years event, by popular demand Nelson will be teaching a number of classes in Latin Hustle as well as on2 NY style Salsa.

Gil and Anke are well-known internationally for their creative and unique turn patterns and shines which they teach with an absolute emphasis on technique and a sense of humour. They are world championship level performers, with notable achievements including second place in the European Championships Zurich, and third in the world in the Salsa Open, Athens.

Patrick started dancing salsa back in 1996, when he and friends visited a salsa club. He picked it up rapidly and just one year later won the first of his Two National Salsa Championship titles. In 1998 he and his partner Belen also took 2nd place in the European Salsa Championships run at the first International Salsa Congress. It was this title that started Patrick’s international salsa career.
Since then, Patrick has maintained his classes in Amsterdam, teaching on1, on2 and Cuban with specialist classes in partnerwork, footwork, styling and techniques, body movement, leading, choreography class and showteam training. He is also much in demand internationally, having taught extensively across Europe and as far afield as Canada and Surinam.
Over the years, Patrick has worked with a number of different partners including Vanessa Mambi and Kimberley Margarita and he has been responsible for several of the most entertaining teams to come out of Europe. Currently he is working on his latest project – The Guateque Dance Co.

Talal was born in Fès, Morocco, in 1980. His interest in music appeared already from a very young age, when he played the guitar with the famous Moroccan composer Karim Zmane. When he arrived in Belgium as a student in the year 2000, he discovered salsa and very quickly became aware of his talent and motivation to invest in it. He joined one of the local dance teams in Brussels and performed with them on local Belgian, but also international events. In 2004 he established his own dance company “Salsa Sunrise” of which he is the director. Since then he works as a professional instructor, performer and choreographer. He created his own style, which is characterized by his passion, energy, and creativity. He teaches salsa in Brussels, both on “1″ and on “2″, and is known for the effective way in which he teaches the technique of leading and following.

Tony & Dani are the most sought after Bachata couple in the world today! Together they have been invited to teach and perform at some of the Worlds biggest and most prestigious

Congresses & Festivals: Amsterdam – Brussels – Gothenburg – Helisinki – Hong Kong – Isreal – London – Los Angeles – Marseille – Paris – San Francisco – Singapore – Sydney – UK – Warsaw – Zurich and they have also tour Europe, Australia & USA literally teaching hundreds and thousands of people to dance Bachata in 4 continents and 100s of cities.

Their classes are always packed and the reason for this is simple, together they produce a learning atmosphere, which is not only informative, but it is extremely creative and most of all packed with fun and laughter. Not only are they very popular teachers but as performers their shows are very creative, diverse and fun to watch, leaving crowds smiling and entertained everywhere they perform, it is no wonder then that have the reputation as the Worlds most loved Bachata couple!

They have a 10 Bachata instructional DVD set on the market from Beginners to Advanced, Ladies styling, Bachata Tango and Mens Footwork. They have literally sold their DVDs all over the World to students and teachers alike. Visit: www.ilovebachata.com for more details. In Oct 2009, they came up with a unique and exciting Festival concept, the biggest Bachata congregation in the world – The 1st Sexy & Sensual Latin Dance Festival, London UK – check it out: www.sexylatinfestival.com

David Lartist & Camela:

Event Organizers
Teachers and performers
Classes, congresses, shows

Biography:

David Lartist has been a dancer for over twelve years and Camela, for eight years. Three years ago, this French couple of dancers decided to teach and perform salsa together. They travel all over the world and we had seen them in several congresses and festivals.

They organize five parties per week in the most important clubs in Paris (Balajo, Barrio Latino) where they teach Puerta Rican Salsa and Cha Cha. In addition to these parties, David & Camela also organize salsa trips and congresses, as The Tunisia Salsa congress and the Ski Dance.

Van & Tom are delighted to present their show “Dreams” a smooth and musical interpretation of the Willie Bobo classic of the same name.
Vanessa teaches Dance in Ireland since 2003.
A Rhythmic Gymnastics champion in her young years, Vanessa is known for her enthusiasm and passion for all types of dances and her love for music.
She believes that dance is for everyone and can be taught to everyone of all ages and abilities. In creating RnM Dance company, she is succeeding in her mission to develop dance in Ireland. www.RnMdance.com
Tom is a rising star of the Irish Salsa and Bachata scene.
He started dancing in 2007, and immediately got hooked. He has performed both nationally and internationally and teaches regularly throughout Ireland.
In 2008 with just over a year of dancing under his belt, Tom and his partner, competed in an international Salsa competition in Belgium, placing respectfully, also in 2008 as a member of the group “Represento” under the stewardship of UK salsa legend Lee Wright, Tom and 15 other dancers, made their London debut at Latinfest.
Tom is not a full time dancer, but regularly uses his dancing and teaching to support charities and good causes.
This year saw the launch of his website www.bachataireland.com a resource which he hopes will help spread his love of dance throughout the country.

Niko has been dancing salsa professionally for 7 years. He has travelled the World competing in various worldwide competitions; in 2005 he represented the UK in Las Vegas, in 2008 he came 3rd in the Salsa World Championships in Men’s Shines and 6th in Salsa couples, in 2007 he came 2nd in Scala.

Niko established the Nicolas Valiente Dance School over a year ago which is based in Marbella and has over 80 dance students. He also teaches in other schools along the Costa del Sol and gives private lessons. He works regularly as an animator and performer in various local salsa clubs.

Marisa has come from a background of ballet, tap and modern dance and has obtained her student teachers qualifications. She teaches dance and performing arts to children.
Marisa started dancing salsa in January 2009. She assists Niko at his Dance School in Marbella and does regular shows and enters worldwide competitions.

Marisa and Niko competed in the Latin World Championships organised by the IDO in Turkey in September 2009 representing Spain. They also recently competed in the European Salsa Championships in Torremolinos. Together they do shows (private parties, weddings, clubs, congresses, etc.), compete, organise Latin Events and in December 2009 and May 2010 they held their own “Salsea parties” in the Monda Castle.

With a lifelong background in ballet on an international circuit, Andrea took her first dance steps at the age of three. Addicted to salsa for over three years, Andrea has had the opportunity to learn with a wide variety of prestigious instructors, notably Joe Davids, Andrea Stewart, Susana Montero and Nelson Flores. She performs regularly with two highly acclaimed dance groups, Duende and Oro Negro, both choreographed by Andrea Stewart. As a regular teacher for the Latin Collective team, she specialises in ladies’ spinning and styling techniques, getting students addicted to salsa across the UK and abroad. Her enthusiastic and encouraging nature always makes her a popular teacher among her students.

Andrea was born in the UK but of Jamaican heritage. She has been dancing Salsa for 15 years and was taught by Mauricio Reyes of Latin Motion. Andrea’s teachers were Jayson Molina, Descarga Latina and Santo Rico and lists her influences as Juan Matos, Felipe Polanco, Tania Santiago, Nancy Ortiz, Eddie Torres, Hache y Machete and Jhesus Aponte. Andrea is sought after for her Ladies’ Styling, SalsAfro Styling, Shines and Reggaeton. Andrea is well respected by her students for her ability to connect, putting them at ease and understanding their needs. Andrea teaches ‘on 1′ and ‘on 2′. Off the dance floor Andrea is humble and down to earth but on the dance floor and when performing she becomes something else and is well known for alighting the stage with her originality, musicality, flavour and SalsAfro.

Dan Stribley & Bex Veysey

Dan & Bex are relative new comers to the Salsa scene but have achieved a great amount in a short space of time. They are based in the South West of England and run weekly classes in different styles of dance. Although they teach Salsa and more, they specialise mainly in Bachata and have been guest instructors at weekenders, workshops & have also performed together at numerous events both in & out of the UK including the 2nd & 3rd Swedish Bachata Festivals in Gothenburg and the Sexy & Sensual Festival in London plus many more.

They have a fun attitude in their teaching whilst ensuring that everything is clearly explained. As well as a huge love & enthusiasm for dancing, the couple have a great natural chemistry together & their passion for teaching & performing shines through in their classes & routines

info coming shortly

Fadi is a man of many talents, equally at home teaching salsa or DJing reggaeton. He discovered salsa in 2002 & has gone on to teach & DJ throughout the UK & abroad. He has a proven track record both in the UK & internationally. Fadi has taught for organisations as diverse as the Latin Collective UK & the Salsa School of Malta, & teaches a weekly class at Bar Salsa. He is a key member of Moe Flex Dance & the Cubana Cabaret Dance Company. Fadi teaches Cuban salsa, la rueda and cross-body salsa On1. Since winning the 2003 Tropicana World Open Salsa Championships Fadi’s dancing has gone from strength to strength. His infectious sense of humour & smooth clean style mean he is always in demand. A highly versatile DJ, Fadi has worked around the world in Lebanon, Spain, Italy, Malta, Holland, Ireland & throughout the UK. His competition successes include winning the 2006 London DJ & International Beat Championships. He plays many styles including Salsa, Reggaeton, R&B, Arabic & House.

Fritha Fallon trained in Ballet, Tap and Modern dance at the Godalming School of Dance. She furthered her training in Ballet and Contemporary dance to professional level at the Laban Centre in London. She has a range of qualifications including BA(Hons) Dance in Society, Specialist Diploma: Teaching Studies (Dance) and Professional Diploma in Labanotation (UK). Fritha gained an in depth understanding of the roots of Salsa dancing when she trained in Cuba with Omi Aralbi Dance Company learning Son, Rumba, Templeke and Casino Rueda. She learnt Cross Body Lead style from Chandy David (UK) and Luis and Joby of Salsa Brava (Los Angeles). She mastered New York On2 style when she joined the Manhattan Mambo Dancers and worked with Jason and Amanda. Fritha works as a dancer, teacher and choreographer. She specialises in Salsa, Contemporary and Street dance. She performs with Manhattan Mambo Dancers (UK) and is also the Artistic Director of her own company called Salsa Diversion (formerly Salsa Diva Dance Company). As well as her freelance work, she also teaches A Level Dance at Godalming College. This includes teaching choreography, technique, notation, anatomy and dance appreciation. As a teacher, Fritha communicates the importance of correct posture, alignment and technique. She also emphasises musical interpretation and personal expression. She has helped her students to gain confidence, to get more enjoyment from their social dancing and has even coached several adult students, who participate in Salsa purely as a hobby, to the point of performing in front of friendly audiences. She helps people to achieve things that they never thought were possible, and most likely, had no previous inclination towards. She encourages people to try new ways of moving, to exceed their boundaries and helps them to feel and look more sexy.

IGNITE Dance Company brings together some of the UK’s favourites dancers; Giles, Rosa and their dancers. Separately, they have been teaching on1 and on2 and performing throughout the UK and at major international congresses (Amsterdam, France, Germany, Greece, Turkey, Scotland, UK). Now, they join forces to bring you a spectacular brand new show “Sin Tu Querer”, full of style and energy that will captivate and enthral you. As a group, IGNITE will share with you their great enthusiasm and passion for dancing. IGNITE will bring style, elegance, excitement and entertainment to any events, so watch out! For more information on IGNITE dancers, please visit; www.onsalsa.com

Idalberto Alcala is an International Master of Cuban Dance, ex-Havana Night choreographer and performer and nine times winner of the Havana Carnival for best choreography, costume design and music. Alcala began dancing at a very early age, later selected to train at the most prestigious performing arts schools in Cuba (Veridades School, National School of Cuban Folklore and Theatre School for Tropicana) where he studied dance (Afro Cuban dance technique and authentic interpretation, folk, ballet, jazz, modern and contemporary), music, theatre, costume and stage design, and director of Arts. His artistic talent and unique qualities as a dancer and choreographer was recognised at the young age of 19, when he was given the role as art director and choreographer for Comparsa La Jardinera, a project he did for 10 years and work for which he won nine awards. Following this he became: a dancer, choreographer, teacher and musician with Turarte Company International, touring Cuba and promoting Cuban culture; dance teacher, folklore assessor and actor for Buen Dia, a Cuban Theatre Company; dancer and choreographer with La Giraldilla, a variety company from Cuban Carnival touring Italy and Mexico; dancer for Yoruba Andavo, a Cuban Folklore company; director, choreographer and dancer with Danzas y Cantos de la Havana Vieja touring Spain. In 1997 came Havana Night, an international Cuban dance show for which Alcala was selected as a choreographer, dancer, singer and actor. One of the original cast members, he worked with the company for six years, completing three world tours and directing and acting in a film debut to Havana Night Passion from Cuba, before deciding to settle in Australia in 2000. Whilst being in Australia, Alcala established several successful Cuban dance schools in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. He produced and taught a number of workshops nationally and internationally including Tampere (Finland), London (UK), Auckland (New Zealand), helping to build a deeper appreciation and understanding of the roots of Cuban dance. He also choreographed and performed in numerous stage shows and cross-cultural dance projects across Australia. In addition, Alcala was a singer in several Cuban bands – T.N.T. Latino Cuban Band (Adelaide), Los Mambises (Brisbane), Club Havana Band and Mambo Asi (Sydney), Mezkla and Timbalaye. Alcala recently moved to the UK where his exceptional and unique talent as a choreographer, performer and art director continues. Today, he is director of Que Rico Cuba – a Cuban cultural and Artistic Management company specialising in the education of Cuban culture, music and dance. This was established in Australia in May 2005 with business and dance partner, Sarah Rodriguez. Together, they are now operating the business in the UK. Alcala teaches a number of workshops and performs around the UK and internationally, in addition to teaching regular classes at his own dance school in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire. Today he is known as one of the most popular dance teachers across the UK, recently being awarded best Latin teacher newcomer to the country 2008. He also is becoming very well known as a charismatic and authentic Latin MC.

info coming shortly

James first encountered salsa as a student Durham in 1997, but it was not until 2004 that he got himself along to a class in London and got himself completely hooked. His first classes were in LA style salsa but soon found himself taking classes with top teachers in London. He now specialises in dancing New York Style on1 and on2 and gets himself to New York as often as he can for continued inspiration and to keep his skills sharp. James was particularly impressed by the Latin Collective’s approach to teaching that emphasises repeated teaching of the same technique over the course of a number of lessons. He was so impressed that he decided he needed to teach for the Latin Collective. James has now entered the world of promotion by running his own Latin Collective franchised nights as well as teaching at a number of the regular nights. In 2008 James joined the new performance group Oro Negro and has enjoyed performing with them in and around London. James has a passion for seeing his students develop and gain confidence in their dancing. His teaching style emphasises technical aspects of leading and following technique mixed in with his unique sense of humour.

SALSA CARIBE PRODUCTIONS are London’s leading promoters of authentic Cuban salsa, presenting dance classes, workshops, club nights and performances, both in the UK and in Cuba. Our dance teachers, performers and DJ are amongst the most experienced and highly regarded in the UK. Formed by Susan – often cited as the UK’s foremost teacher of Cuban salsa, and Doctor Jim – renowned for being the UK’s leading Cuban salsa & timba DJ, Salsa Caribe’s team includes Cristina from Barcelona. We specialise in teaching ‘Casino’ – the fresh, contemporary style of street salsa, that fuses traditional Cuban dance forms with elements of jazz, funk, hip hop, R&B, soca and Jamaican ragga & dancehall. We also teach and perform Cuban popular dances such as rumba, son, mambo and cha cha cha, as well as Afro-Cuban and carnival dances. In addition to teaching and performing, we promote and host club nights & parties, including London’s premier Cuban salsa night, and our resident DJ has one of the best reputations on the UK salsa scene. We also organise and host Dance Cuba! – regular salsa holidays that have earned a reputation for being the best dance trips to Cuba available.

Director of The Latin Collective, the Uk’s Premier Latin Dance Promotion company, Joe started dancing salsa in London in 1997. Initially he learned the different basic techniques of what is now known as Miami/Puerto Rican style salsa (the fore-runner of “London-style”), but, soon after forming The Latin Collective, he met Mr Eddie Torres The Mambo king himself from whom he learned to dance on2. His time with this Salsa Master educated him in the importance of timing, technique and tension and strengthened Joe’s resolve to improve teaching practices in the UK. In the last few years, Joe has worked hard with his team to develop both his and their skills as dancers and teachers and the result has been some of the UK’s best dancers and most popular teachers. As well as festivals in the UK including Pontins, The Salsa Explosion Festival and numerous other weekenders, Joe and his team have travelled abroad extensively and have taught already in over 20 countries.

At the age of 9 my mum decided I needed a hobby so naturally threw me into the nearest dance class, which happened to be with a Latin and Ballroom school, DCDance, and I’ve never looked back since. During the 10 years I spent on the Latin and ballroom scene, I represented Essex across the country and competed five times at the British National Open Formation Championships, in 2001 achieving 4th place. At the age of 14 I began assisting in adult classes and teaching classes for children aged 3-16. Whilst at DCDance, I achieved Gold Bar Level 2 in both Ballroom and Latin with the IDTA and NDTA. After splitting with my long term boyfriend (also my dance partner) in 2007, I found that simply teaching dance wasn’t enough – I wanted to dance too! Whilst looking for something to satisfy my hunger, I stumbled across the Salsa SOS website. I emailed the organiser (Stuart) to try to get a feel of what I could expect, and after a very heated discussion regarding the differences between ballroom and salsa dancers, I decided I simply had to go – if only to meet the man (Stuart) who was sending me emails! I started on a Tuesday @ Colors, in beginners with Kerry and did my obligatory minimum of 4 weeks before moving up to improvers with Nik. From there I moved up to intermediate with Kimmy and finally to advanced with Stuart, at which point Stuart approached me to teach. After detailed training with Stuart, I began teaching at Salsa SOS in Jan 08 at beginner level. Since Jan 08 I have taught on 5 different club nights at 4 different venues for salsa SOS. I have also trained with Joe Davids of The Latin Collective Team and am now a valued member of both Salsa SOS and The Latin Collective. I appreciate and enjoy all styles of salsa and my favourite style changes depending on what mood I’m in. I also Love dancing meringue, bachata, cha cha and many other Latin dances – I just can’t get enough. To me dancing is extremely important, it’s a great way to keep fit, meet new people, build self confidence and make friends. I can’t imagine my life without dancing, I’d make it compulsory in the work place if I had the chance. Dance like no one is watching.

Laith Sami was born on in Baghdad. When the Iraq/Iran war started in 1979, the family went on a trip to London and decided to stay there. Sami went to nursery school but after 4 years they had to leave the country and chose Sweden to be their new home, where at 13 years of age Sami discovered dance and subsequently began teaching after a year. He started to teach in a youth club and within a year his class grew from 6 students to 150 all between the ages of 6 and 18. At the age of 17 he began gymnastics contrary to everyone’s objections that he was too old. Determined, by the age of 21 Sami and his gymnastic team became the Swedish team champions. Still it seemed London was his destiny and at the age of 23 he moved back and studied acting for 2 years and began dancing Salsa. Sami took Salsa very seriously performing and teaching in Europe, performing in the L.A. congress and eventually creating the Diablo dance company. The Dance Company is a showcase for his dynamic and innovative choreography, which blends the passion and energy of Salsa with the demanding body technique of HipHop and Jazz. Sami has brought together a talented team of the hottest up-and-coming dancers in London, each dancing Salsa with a unique style influenced by their respective backgrounds in Ballet, Jazz, Argentinean Tango, Contemporary Dance, Imperial Ballroom & Latin American, and even Martial Arts! Sami taught and helped dancers to develop their dancing to a higher level. Diablo became two time salsa team champions representing the UK. He went on to received his Lifetime Salsa Achievement award in 2007. During this time dance was not his only interest. Sami sparked a passion for directing film and T.V. He wrote, produced and directed “Land of The Apes The Musical” which ran at London’s Riverside Studios and has recently written the feature film Blood Dance. In addition he has directed 2 music videos and 8 short films from Drama to Comedy to Horror to Dance, each very different from each other. Sami’s love of acting, TV and film production lead him to complete a City and Guilds diploma in Media Techniques, covering all aspects of production. He now has over 16 years experience working in television, theatre and dance. Up to date he appeared in 23 short films as an actor.

Lazaro Lopez graduated with honours in 1989 from the Cuban National School of Art and Dance (ENA) in Havana and started dancing professionally with the leading folkloric dance company Raices Profundas. With this company Lazaro performed as a soloist dancer and went on tour to Mexico and Japan with the show “Noche Tropical”. In 1994, he joined the folkloric dance company Pinos Nuevos. During his time with this company he won three prices for the best performance and characterisation. In 1997, Lazaro joined the renowned dance company Compañia Folklorica Cubana J.J. where, as the principal dancer, he performed in the most prominent theatres of Cuba, like the Garcia Lorca, Carlos Marx, Teatro America. In December 2000, he came to London to perform as a lead dancer in the famous West-End show Lady Salsa. Since then Lazaro has been based in London and has been dancing and teaching with his partner Paola Lopez who began her dance training of Salsa and Cuban traditional dances in 1996. Paola is an excellent dancer who possesses an outstanding and distinctive style, blending elements of Son, Rumba, and Afro-Cuban Orishas into her dancing, with passion, vitality and confidence. Lazaro and Paola are first-rate teachers, who focus on teaching confidence in all the basic steps, feeling and counting the rhythm, developing a good technique and style, body movement, leading and following skills and musical interpretation. This is combined with a dedicated and patient approach, teaching an elegant and smooth style when dancing Salsa, Rumba and Afro-Cuban. Lazaro and Paola, who are also the 2004 Tropicana Tropics World Rueda Champions, have established themselves as leading exponents of Cuban music and dance and they currently teach classes of Salsa, Rueda de Casino, Cuban Popular Dances, Afro-Cuban and Rumba in and around London, the UK and Europe.

Marchant was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa. He has been living in England since 2000. Trained from an early age in Ballroom and Latin American, he is a much sought after performer and teacher both in the UK and internationally. Marchant has acheive success with a number of different dance partners over the years. He was winner of the Best UK Dance Act award at the UK Salsa Congress 2006 with his then partner Miriam Oppel. His ‘Take Five’ show also received high acclaim from the mambo king himself, Eddie Torres. At the UK Congress 2007 he received an award of recognition for his contribution to salsa and for raising the standard of teaching in the UK. As well as founding the dance company, Marchant also started the Alchemy Dance Academy in 2006 which provides the opportunity for the general salsa public to improve their dancing by way of the Alchemy method of dance training. It is pioneering the Alchemy Way that is now Marchant’s main focus with his partner Davina. The most recent development being the release of their first instructional DVD ’Alchemy Way Partnerwork’.chant’s full bio DAVINA is Marchant’s dance partner for solo couple shows, and is project coordinator for Alchemy. She is the female exponent of the Alchemy Way of dancing mambo & salsa, teaching the style and grace of this method at the Alchemy Dance Academy and as the featured lady on Marchant’s instructional DVD. From a trained background in Ballet, Tap, Modern and Jazz, Davina is a qualified ISTD teacher of Modern and Tap. She has a degree in Drama & Theatre Studies and a range of fitness teaching qualifications. For 10 years she has taught in a variety of capacities, mainly as freelance teacher/choreographer at dance schools and colleges around London. In 2003 she took up salsa, attending classes with Marchant who soon spotted her potential and undertook her training. It was from this that Alchemy Dance Company was formed, Davina’s jazz dance experience being part of the core technique training for the company. She also co-choreographed, with Marchant, Alchemy’s debut show ’Timbalito’. web: www.alchemydance.co.uk

Marcos Fonseca was born in the wonderful Rio de Janeiro, one of the most dynamic and rhythmic cities in the world. A Graduate in Physical Education, he has previously competed professionally in Judo, Rowing and Swimming. He has been involved in the teaching profession for many years, both living and teaching in various major cities and countries.
A dancer from childhood, he became involved and specialized in the industry of Aerobics and Fitness due to his strong attraction toward movement and the physical benefits that it brings. He became an ambassador of Fitness around the world teaching Funk, Hip Hop, salsa and lambada as well as Aerobic, Step and Latin Rhythm Aerobic, not only because of his physical ability, but also because of his teaching technique and dynamic rhythm that crosses his veins and brings to light his sensuality, mysticism and Brazilian heat.
Marcos has been from the early 90´s a presenter in conventions, workshops, conferences and master classes on Aerobics, Fitness related topics, and sports marketing, in different parts of Brazil his native country, as well as throughout the American continent, Europe, Australia and Africa. He has been a technical manager of Fitness formation courses in associations and federations worldwide and has also been a professor in international health clubs as prestigious as REEBOK Sport Club, Homes Place, Health Land, Esporta, L.A. Fitness and other important health clubs.
Besides being a choreographer and a participant in noted fashion parades, he has also prepared with success and collaborated in different TV and Radio programs during many years, contributing to the success of radio and TV spaces dedicated to the Sport and the Fitness world.
He has also been active in numerous organizations. He is working with health and well-being programs inside communities carrying out a way of dancing (Latin rhythms, Samba, Salsa, Merengue as well as Hip Hop and other fitness modality) adapted to their plan of studies of current health for children, teen-agers and 50 plus.
He has taught his unique style of dance and fitness classes and workshops in a total of 36 countries. Marcos returned to Brazil in 2005 to concentrate and deepen his expertise in Brazilian Zouk Lambada and Salsa and to learn and work with world famous professionals such as Renata Pecanha, Luis Floriao, Jose Carlos Valverde. After 2 years in Brazil, Marcos spent a month giving workshops in Spain where he introduced his unique cardio-zouk class. Marcos then moved to London and his unique style of dance and teaching has proven extremely popular. Marcos is currently teaching Brazilian Zouk with his dance partner Sarah, at Pineapple Dance studios and teaches hip hop and salsa partner and choreography classes throughout London including at Fitness First, Virgin, LA Fitness and other clubs and bar venues.

Sarah’s love of dance began with gymnastics and she later started stage school aged 10 where she learned performing skills, jazz, singing and instruments. She auditioned and was accepted into the National Youth Music Theatre aged 13. In 2001 Sarah discovered a serious passion for hip hop, Capoeira and Cuban salsa. For the first time she felt like she was truly dancing from her heart and that all she wanted to do was dance. She began to dance as much as she could whilst finishing her degree in Philosophy. Shortly after graduating in 2002, she met Marcos Fonseca at his hip hop class and soon began dancing lambada and hip hop with him. Together they toured through 12 countries in South America, Europe and Asia and she assisted Marcos teaching Latin choreography class, hip hop and lambada. After 1 year in Asia, Sarah and Marcos returned to Rio de Janeiro and lived there from 2005-2007. During this time Sarah focused on dancing and teaching the Brazilian rhythms Brazilian zouk lambada (an evolution of the lambada), forró, Brazilian ballroom, axé and samba gafiera. Her passion and specialty is Brazilian zouk lambada and she learned from and worked with the world famous professionals Renata Peçanha and Luiz Florião.
Then in 2007, after one month of giving workshops in Madrid, Sarah returned to the UK in to do her MA. However after completing this she decided that her only true passion is dance and that she would focus only on dancing, performing and teaching dance. Sarah is now based in London and teaches weekly classes at the world famous Pineapple Dance Studios and also at the well-known Brazilian bar – Guanabara – in Covent Garden among other venues.
Sarah and her dance partner continue to be actively involved with the Brazilian Dance Association (ANDANCAS), coordinated by Luis Floriao, in trying to develop the profile and understanding of Brazilian rhythms world wide.
Sarah and Marcos choreograph and perform regular shows throughout London with their dance company Rio Zouk Fusion. Sarah is also closely involved with other London based professionals on the Latin scene and has performed both with them and with her dance partner Marcos at their London venues. In 2009 Sarah started back into salsa after a break of 7 years and is learning cross-body style for the first time! She is also training regularly in jazz, contemporary and hip hop at Pineapple Studios.

Mauro started dancing at the age of 24 when he arrived in London from his home town of Milan. Within 2 years he had featured in a music video on MTV Asia and was teaching for Elder Sanchez (Salsateca) at some of the most popular venues around London (Bar Salsa, La Finca, Bar Rumba, Bar Havana). In 2001, Mauro was a finalist in the British Salsa Competition with Nicky Britton and in 2007 was finalist with is current partner Eva Hurychova.
His reputation as an inspiring and entertaining teacher quickly spread and in 2003 Mauro was asked to teach and perform with Leon Rose and Tamambo as part of the SOS team. It was here that he met and began dancing with Eva. Mauro currently teaches at SOS and Bar Salsa (London) and has recently started his own weekly styling and partner work classes. Over the past three years Mauro and Eva have firmly established an international reputation as performers and teachers of the highest caliber.

Eva started dancing ballet and learning gymnastics in the Czech Republic at the age of four. Three years later she swapped ballet for ballroom and Latin-American dance and, as a child, won many national competitions. While at university, Eva and her dance partner reached international masters level in Latin-American dance, were classified in the top twenty couples from the Czech Republic and successfully competed in many national and international competitions.
After moving to the UK, Eva began dancing salsa with the Mundo Latino Team and after a couple of months was chosen to perform with the Laith Sami Diablo Dance Company. In 2004, she was a finalist in the Tropicana Salsa Competition and was a member of the dance cast in the West End musical Murderous Instincts’ directed by Puorto Rican choreographer Jesus Aponte. Eva was also invited in 2005 to dance with the Leon Rose Dance Group and performed as part of his dance project.
Eva currently teaches and performs, both within the UK and internationally, with Mauro Casali and together they were finalists in the South East Championships in 2006. Eva and Mauro teach classes with the Latin Collective and SOS teams and also run their own weekly styling and partner-work classes in London.
Artist’s Website: www.maurocasali.co.uk

Miguel Monteiro……..

Moe Flex is one of the most exciting, inspiring & entertaining choreographers on the international Latin dance scene today! His boundless enthusiasm for dance is impossible to ignore. As a leading authority in the field of dance, rhythm & body movement, Moe’s unique style of teaching is recognised internationally & he takes his workshops & shows to events worldwide. By adding his own personal touch to everything he does, Moe makes each dance experience a positive & memorable one. He is an inspiring role model for all performing artists & celebrities & has worked with the likes of Rolldeep, Tim Westwood, 50 Cent, Blu Cantrell, Craig David, Guy Ritchie & Madonna. Moe has several awards & championship wins under his belt, including being recognised as the “UK’s Most Popular Cuban Teacher” in 2006 and ‘Best UK Teacher’ in 2008. His credits include teaching & performing at the 2007 Glastonbury Festival. A versatile artist, Moe is available to teach Cross Body & Cuban salsa, La Rueda, Reggaeton, Cha cha cha, Bachata, Hip Hop & Street. He has choreographed performance shows by Moe Flex Dance Company, Gal Flex & El Barrio.

Nadia Yammine professional, teacher, Dancer and Lecturer in professional make-up, Beauty Therapy and Nail Technology. Born in Ghana West Africa to Italian Lebanese parents. Currently based in the UK for the last 20 years.

Started dancing classes and performing at the age of 5 to African and Indian folklore, Lebanese Dabke and Belly Dancing.

Dance history includes 10 years Latin and Ballroom amateur dancing trained by Peggy Spencer OBE at the Spencer Dance Centre. Samba , Rhumba, Cha Cha ,Jive, Paso Doble, Tango, Foxtrot, Rhythm Foxtrot, Mambo, Waltz, Viennese Waltz, Quickstep, Old Time, Modern Jive, Jump Jive, Rock’n’Roll. Over 10 year’s professional dancer Salsa, Lambada, Samba, Kizomba, Semba…. Zouk Lambada, Kizomba, Semba, Samba….to date.

1996 ( while managing a small Flamenco Club in Bayswater ‘Las Estrellas’) performed, promoted and taught with London’s greatest Lambada Dancers, Karina Padilha and Lula Filho at Bar Madrid ( then London’s biggest Latin Club) for several years.1198 taught and performed Salsa in various clubs and events around the world.
Professional activities include Latin, Ballroom and Rock’n’Roll amateur Silver and Gold medalist. Member of the Penge Latin Formation Team (BBC Come Dancing) Runners up professional UK Salsa Champion 1998, UK professional Salsa Champion 1999 and Runners-up professional European Salsa Champion 2000.

Companies include The Penge Latin Formation Team, Cabaret Latino, Karina Padilha’s ‘Tribe’, Cultura Latina dance group, Strictly Latin dance group, Victor Hugo and his Salsa Band, Corona Extra and most recently Zouklondon dance company and Rio Zouk Fusion.

Television and Media include BBC1, BBC2, Channel 4, Channel 5, ITV, Sky and Cable channels, Chinese TV, Turkish TV, Persian TV, Record TV, BBC Come Dancing with Angela Ripen, BBC Children in Need (performed with classical group ‘BOND’) Jim Davidson’s Generation Game, Good Morning with Richard and Judy,’Colours’ for Sarah Ferguson, Mel B (Spice Girls) Touch’n’Go, Michael Ark, Radio and Magazine features amongst others.

Travelled and performed in many countries, corporate events and major events such as Bloomberg, Notting Hill Carnival, Pontins,1st London Salsa Congress, Kew Gardens, Clarrindon Gardens Festival, Scotland, Poland, Jersey, Isle of White, Guernsey, Dubai, Singapore, Indonesia, Mexico …..

The last four years was concentrated on promoting Kizomba in London. The vision was to take Kizomba out of the African/Portuguese community and introduce it into a wider market. During this time Zouklondon Company was established organizing and promoting Kizomba events, parties and concerts, working closely with various Kizomba Artists in promoting their music including Suzanna Lubrano, Nilton Ramalho, Johnny Ramos amongst others. This project includes training dance teachers and dancers for the Zouklondon dance company C,, working alongside various radio stations in various countries Espace FM, Connexion Fm, Radio Decibel….1999 achieved a diploma in Artist management in Music. Recently Zouklondon is working alongside Top promoters/DJ’s in both the African and Latin scene to take Kizomba to another level.

Neville has been dancing Salsa since 1994. He was first hooked on the Cuban style of Salsa before moving on to LA Salsa. Today Neville loves, dances and teaches both styles.
In 1998 Neville progressed from simply dancing to teaching Salsa. In 2000 he set up his own Salsa Club called ‘Latino Beat’. This Salsa Club is based in Bournemouth and offers Salsa most nights of the week along with monthly ‘Party nights’ and a yearly weekend ‘Festival’.
Angie gained her passion for Salsa when she went on a Salsa dance holiday in Cuba in 2005. She was so inspired by the trip that she has not stopped dancing since. Having a similar Latin experience to Neville, Angie’s initial journey to Cuba and learning the Cuban way has now been extended to gaining a love of LA Salsa and the Dominican lovers dance Bachata. Angie has been a Salsa Instructor for Latino Beat since 2007 where she teaches Rueda de Casino and LA style salsa.
Neville teaches LA Salsa, Cuban and Rueda de Casino at his Club and has more recently ventured out to various other Salsa clubs upon promoters request to teach at their events. His guest teaching has included slots at the Claverton Rooms in Bath, the Isle of Wight, Glastonbury, Devon, and Southampton. Neville and his partner Angie, originally from Australia (but now based in the UK) have now been booked to teach at the next hugely popular London Latin Fest at Scala in 2010 and will be returning to teach at the next Salsa Bristol All Dayer in October 2010.

Neville and Angie’s teaching style can be best described as fun and full of energy, they both have a genuine love for Salsa and you can’t help but get off on it!

Olga Ribaka was raised in Latvia. She began her dance training in the city of Riga at a young age. After high school she pursued her dream in becoming a dancer: taking a diploma in dance and culture management at Latvia Culture College and graduated in 2002 along with a diploma in fitness industry. She started to teach LA Style Salsa in Latvia in 2004 as well as travelling abroad to different Salsa festivals. While pursuing her career in dance, she freelances her fitness teaching skills to educate members in fitness clubs who are interested in the concept of dance. In 2006, while in the UK she started taking classes with The Latin Collective and was so impressed by their teaching methods that she enrolled in their teacher training skill. She rapidly made progress and in 2007, she moved to London (UK) where she started to teach NY Style Salsa for The Latin Collective. Her teaching skill goes beyond demonstrating salsa dance combination; she has a deep understanding of teaching the technical aspects of leading and following techniques which she shares with students and dancers at all levels.

info coming shortly

info coming shortly

Riquita Alta……..

Sami and pilar are the current UK Salsa Champions and are the youngest couple performing salsa in the UK. With their amazing footwork turn patterns and lifts done at high speed Sami and Pilar are a must see.

Sami and Pilar from Cali Colombia but raised from young in the uk have exploded onto the salsa scene in 2008-2009 and since then have been at the most important salsa and latin festivals, congresses and events in the UK. Sami and Pilar come from a Performing Arts back ground having studied Ballet, jazz and contemporary.

Sami and Pilar are understudies of the 3x World Salsa Champions Ricardo Murillo and Viviana Vargas from Cali Colombia and have performed side to side with them. Sami and pilar are regarded as one of the UK’s hottest properties and youngest talent. they are improving everyday and are real crowd pleasers. They teach Colombian cali style salsa and boogaloo aswell as salsa shines on1.

Sam is a long term member of the Latin Collective, and regularly teaches at one of London’s most popular Latin venues, Bar Salsa. A very patient teacher, Sam enjoys building up the confidence of his students by improving their technique and understanding of the dance in a fun and relaxed environment. As a performer, Sam has taken the stage at international salsa congresses both in the UK and overseas with Laith Sami’s two time European team champions the Diablo Dance Company, and Andrea Stewart’s Oro Negro.

Having arriving in the UK salsa scene in mid 2002 and being a person of intense feeling he always felt the necessity to develop his own creative expression and looked around over along period which enabled him to develop his own smooth and a accommodating style, drawing on elements from different type of dance. Interestingly His popularity has taken him by surprise which helped him in making the decision to take his dancing to the next level. Incidentally the name Sleek was given to him as a testimony to his light smooth but effortless style. Known as one of the lightest leads in salsa, fast and different way of shines and footwork, and partner work with variety of moves and technique, he has taken UK and Europe by storm, becoming known as one of the most inspiring names on the dancing and teaching circuit today, and his in great demand for his gentle yet effective lead in a variety of styles. Sam teaches and performs all the following styles up to advance level: Salsa On1, Salsa On2, Cha Cha, Bachata. Sam has wide and varied experience in the entertainment and the performing industry, and over short space of time has amassed many performing credits to his name. His versatility can be seen not only for his dancing but Singing, Acting and modelling also ‘as a model in Bridal shows, Catwalk, magazines and T.V Appearing in:‘Land of Apes the Musical’ , ‘Driving Lessons’, ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ ‘Bonita’ Music video in Ukraine. Ya Lile’ Music video in Dubai ( Rotana music channel), Sam has also hosted one of the biggest charity dance event in Europe (Caridad Charity Dance event 2008). Sam has worked and continues to work along side some of Europe’s most distinguished dancers and companies such as The Latin Collective, Robert Charlemagne, Laith Sami and the Diablo Dance Company, Salsa Republic with simply salsa, Miguel de Portorico, the Moe Flex Dance Company, Salsa Jester and many more…. Now Sam is stamping his unique ‘Sleek’ style in UK and around the world. web: www.mrsleekdance.com

Shelley Cook is an infectiously enthusiastic dancer who is widely acknowledged as one of the UK’s most popular teachers and performers. Together with Lee Wright, they held several national and international competition titles including UK Professional Champions, European Bronze and Silver Medallists and World Semi-Finalists and Top UK Dance Act. Shelley has made numerous appearances on National TV including BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and the Kiss FM Urban Music Awards.

Simon a.k.a Lord Bachata has been dancing and entertaining since he was 8 years old. Disco and Brake Dancing were previously his fortes. His dancing continued on a more serious level throughout his teenage years, directing and leading various dance projects, including recreating Michael Jackson’s Thriller Routine. He also had a passion for Gymnastics and Swimming which he participated in alongside his dancing. Simon took his first Salsa class in Jan 2004 and still loves it. He spent the first 14 months just learning and social dancing, getting to know what salsa was all about. He then discovered Bachata in 2005 and loved that too. That same year, Simon won his first (mini) Bachata Contest at Club Cubana’s Latin Explosion Weekend at Brean Sands. He was also placed in the top 3 at the British Amateur Salsa Contest. In 2007, he became the European Open Bachata Champion during his time with Seraphim Dance at the UK Salsa Congress. A couple of years ago Simon discovered Bachatango and now takes his workshops around the UK. His disciplines now involve teaching Bachata, Bachatango (Sexy/Funky Style), Mambo/Salsa on 1-2 and Cha Cha Cha. Simon believes that everyone should have fun dancing no matter what their level or ability. He does and that’s why he believes that at the age of 70 he’ll still be a Bachatero and a Salsero.

Miguel has been a Professional dancer/chorographer and percussionist for over 10 years now from Santiago De Cuba. He was professionally trained with the leading dance company in Cuba, Danza teatro del Caribe, under the direction of Eduardo Rivero Walker, a pioneer celebrity of the Cuban dance in Cuba. He has performed all over the world in numerous productions using Cuban contemporary dance and ethnic folkloric dance. Miguel has strong knowledge of the history of the Cuban dance and music and likes to encourage students to learn about it. Since being in London and re-ignited his dance teaching, he has taught many dance workshops for well known companies in all the Cuban popular dances such as Rumba, Son, Mambo, Cha Cha, Afro Cuban and Cuban Salsa.