International Salsa Magazine

Events

Salsa and Casino Ecuador Festival 2017

Latinoamerica / Ecuador / Quito

“Ecuador is a country located in South America, bordered to the north by Colombia, to the south by Peru, and to the west by the Pacific Ocean. Here, we can appreciate a rich cultural and natural heritage, boasting numerous rivers of unparalleled beauty.”

“‘Hecho Salsa’ is a dance community founded on April 21, 2013. In 2015, it began operating as a dance academy, and starting March 20, 2016, it expanded as an ‘event organizer,’ organizing the 1st International Flashmob for ‘World Rueda de Casino Day,’ which took place on a single day in ‘La Carolina’ park in Quito, Ecuador. As of this year (2017), it became the official organizer of the Salsa y Casino Ecuador Festival, which was the 2nd International Giant Rueda de Casino Flashmob in Ecuador.”

Salsa and Casino Ecuador Festival 2017
Salsa and Casino Ecuador Festival 2017

“It’s worth mentioning that there was a demand from those in the world of Salsa and dance in general for a dance competition, which led to the start of the 1st Ecuador Dance Contest. This was an open dance competition in the Salsa, Bachata, and Casino categories across two divisions: couples and groups.”

“The Salsa y Casino Ecuador Festival 2017 took place on March 24, 25, and 26, 2017. Its objective and intention were to promote Salsa in general, as well as dance culture, and to strengthen the bond that unites salseros within the community.”

“This interesting event was held first and primarily at the Best Western CPlaza Hotel (located at Av. De Los Shyris N37-53 and Av. Naciones Unidas) and secondarily at the same location where the event took place last year (the aerobics track in ‘La Carolina’ park).”

“We will soon be providing more details about the now-concluded event.”

For more information:

70th Anniversary of the Sonora Ponceña at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum

Major guests joined the historic Sonora Ponceña concert, which was held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to mark the 70th anniversary of the musical career of one of the most important orchestras in the salsa scene.

The concert kicked off with a performance by the virtuoso timbalero, singer, and orchestra director Manolito Rodríguez. His orchestra, La Zónika, set the venue on fire with refreshing versions of ‘Encántigo’, ‘Sin tu cariño’ (Without Your Love), ‘Nina’, ‘Antillana’, ‘Maestro de rumberos’ (Master of Rumba Dancers), and ‘Piano man’. It’s worth noting that Manolito was part of “La Ponceña” from 2004 until the end of 2007.

Once La Zónica had warmed up the coliseum stage, the Sonora Ponceña began to deliver its repertoire, which included ‘Prende el fogón’ (Light the Stove), ‘Ñáñara cai’, ‘Ramona’, ‘Boranda’, ‘El rincón caliente’ (The Hot Corner), ‘Tumba Mabó’, and ‘Las mujeres son de azúcar’ (Women Are Made of Sugar) sung by Daniel Dávila; ‘Como amantes’ (Like Lovers), ‘Como te quise yo’ (How I Loved You), ‘Sigo pensando en ti’ (I Keep Thinking of You), ‘Timbalero’—which allowed the timbal player to dedicate himself to the instrument with a spectacular solo, ‘Fuego en el 23’ (Fire in ‘23), and ‘Luz negra’ (Black Light) performed by Darvel García. In fact, shortly after Darvel performed ‘Como amantes’, he was in charge of welcoming the pianist, composer, arranger, and director of the Sonora Ponceña, Papo Lucca, who enjoyed the concert from the stage in a wheelchair.

Omar Ledée, uno de los invitados de la Sonora Ponceña Foto By Conrado Pastrano
Omar Ledée, uno de los invitados de la Sonora Ponceña Foto By Conrado Pastrano

The rotation of the repertoire allowed for a dynamic interspersing of performances by the guests whom the concert production granted access to the celebration.

With 90 years of sabor (flavor/soul) and salsa, Luigui Texidor, who left the Sonora Ponceña in 1973, returned smiling and grateful. Texidor, who recently received the welcomed honor of seeing his name mark the street leading to Colonia Las Flores in Santa Isabel, his hometown, sang ‘El pío pío’, ‘Bomba carambomba’, and ‘Noche como boca de lobo’ (Night Like a Wolf’s Mouth / Pitch-Black Night).

Sharing that same celebratory vibe, one of the most remembered voices of “Los gigantes del sur” (The Giants of the South), Yolanda Rivera, who was part of “La Ponceña” until 1982, was heard. Rivera proudly recalled her seven years as a member of the orchestra while thanking the invitation to the historic concert, where she performed ‘Hasta que se rompa el cuero’ (Until the Skin Breaks), a track that featured a powerful bongo solo.

Omar Ledée performed ‘Remembranzas’ (Remembrances), originally recorded in the voice of his father, the late and ever-remembered Toñito Ledée, whom Omar represented in a heartfelt posthumous tribute.

Another fan favorite of the Sonora Ponceña followers is Pichie Pérez, who joined the group in 1983 “in substitution of Miguelito and Yolanda.” The singer performed ‘Te vas de mí’ (You Leave Me) and the updated version of an emblematic track, which for the celebration was titled ‘Jubileo ‘70’ (Jubilee ‘70), and which Pichie himself describes as “one of ‘La Ponceña’s’ iconic tracks and the first unreleased track I recorded.” The vocalist was associated with the orchestra for three decades, from 1983 to 2013. Since his departure, he has been promoting his solo career, making this the first time in 12 years he was heard live with his “alma mater” orchestra.

Orquesta La Zónika de Manolito Rodríguez, abriendo el espectáculo Foto By Conrado Pastrano
Orquesta La Zónika de Manolito Rodríguez, abriendo el espectáculo Foto By Conrado Pastrano

Wito Colón, who left the Sonora Ponceña 15 years ago, arrived ready to sing ‘Hachero pa’ un palo’, ‘Vas por ahí’ (You Go Around), ‘Yaré’, ‘Yambeque’which interspersed a powerful tumbadora (conga) solo, and ‘Sola Vaya’ (Go Alone), the latter song performed with Daniel Dávila and Darvel García. The vocalist was hailed by concertgoers as “the champion of the night” for his vocal power, as well as his charisma before the ardent audience.

Undoubtedly, it was an unforgettable night.

Bella Martinez Puerto Rico

 

 

Also Read: Bella Martinez, the irreverent Salsa writer

The 9th Annual Melbourne Latin Festival

Australia /

The 9th Annual Melbourne Latin Festival

A Celebration of Latin Dance 7, 8 & 9 April, 2017

Venue: Jason Coleman´s Ministry

The 9th Annual Melbourne Latin Festival 2017 - Flyers
The 9th Annual Melbourne Latin Festival 2017 – Flyers

Melbourne Latin Festival 2017 bringing you an even more exciting and entertainment weekend filled with: 3 Evenings of Latin Dance Shows & Parties, Over 150 Latin Dancers, 12 Latin DJ’s, 40 Dance Workshops Over 3 Days/Nights of fun!

The workshops are intended both for the complete novice as to the professional including Salsa, Bachata, Zouk, Samba, Cha Cha Cha, Argentine Tango, Kizomba, Lindy Hop and more…

The 9th Melbourne Latin Festival wil feature international sensation Frankie Martinez from USA back by popular demand, Frankie will again be divulging and sharing he’s talent and knowledge of Latin Dance.

We look forward to having this amazing inspirational artist amongst us again, as well as other interstate and local Latin artists. Saturday evening will have The Great Gatsby theme so dress in your best Gatsby costume and Lindy Hop and West Coast Swing genre’s will join in party to give it that extra Gatsby feel.

The 9th Annual Melbourne Latin Festival 2017 - Flyers 2
The 9th Annual Melbourne Latin Festival 2017 – Flyers 2

Schedule

Friday 4:00pm: Frankie Martinez Pachanga Masterclass 5:00pm: Performer Tech Rehearsal 8:00pm: Doors Open (Homeless Not Heartless Night) 8:30pm: Performance Shows 10:00pm: Social Dancing (West Cost Swing/Swing Room, Salsa Room, Bachata/Zouk Room)

Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm: Workshops 2:00pm: Bachata Immersion Course 5:00pm: Tech Performance Rehearsal 8:00pm: Doors Open (The Great Gatsby Theme) 8:30pm: Performance Shows 10:00pm: Social Rooms (Salsa, Bachata/Zouk)

Sunday 10:00am – 5:00pm: Workshops 2:00pm: Samba Immersion Course 5:00pm: Tech Performance Rehearsal 8:00pm: Doors Open (Brazilian Theme – Wear White) 8:30pm: Performance Shows 10:00pm: Social Rooms (Salsa, Bachata/Zouk)

Featured guest

International Artist Frankie Martinez – USA

Frankie Martinez is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and renowned Latin contemporary dancers of his generation. To date, Frankie Martinez and ABAKUÁ Afro-Latin Dance Company have performed and taught in over 50 cities and over 20 countries worldwide.

They have performed at prestigious venues including Madison Square Garden, Roseland Ballroom, Lincoln Center, Aaron Davis Hall, Jacob’s Pillow and NY Summerstage amongst many others.

The 9th Annual Melbourne Latin Festival 2017 - Flyers 3
The 9th Annual Melbourne Latin Festival 2017 – Flyers 3

Master Class with Frankie Martinez

Afro and Body Movement and Isolation. Only 20 spots available Level: Intermediate/Advanced. Date: 7 April, 2017. Time: 4pm

Artists & Instructors

  • Alex Bryan – Flavoured Rhythm – VIC
  • Artia Zandian – NSW
  • Carlos & Elli – QLD
  • Debby Smits – QLD
  • Elka Eidelman – Loco Mojo – VIC
  • Izzy Washington – VIC
  • Jaime Jesus – NSW
  • Jose & May – QLD/Spain
  • Juan Carlos Ospina Sanchez – Colombia/VIC
  • Kadu Pires & Krin Bajough – NSW
  • Maxine & Akshar – Acontra – VIC
  • Mitch Billc & Ellicia McDonald – NSW
  • Nathan & Brocke – Melbourne
  • Paula Di Pietro (Hooked on Dance) – VIC
  • Pedro Gonzalez & Elysia Manger – VIC
  • Sasha Mazzeu – QLD
  • Sharon Pakir – Spin City Dance – VIC
  • Sherylanne – Salsa Republic – NSW
  • Silvi Milans – SA/Brasil
  • Sophie Contreras – VIC
  • Tomas Melgarejo – VIC

DJ’s

Salsa Main Room Dj Debilious (Qld) Dj Nathan Dj Carlos Galliano Dj Juan Carlos Ospina Dj Carlos Lopez

Zouk & Kizomba Room Dj Allan Dj Kadu Dj Mutati

Bachata Rooms Dj Kendrix – Bachata Beats Dj Alberto – Timberlero

SUPPORTING HOMELESS IN MELBOURNE

Each year Melbourne Latin Festival also support a great cause. In the past we have supported The Good Friday Appeal, Cancer Foundation, Leukemia Foundation and White Ribbon Foundation – violence against women.

In 2017 they have selected a local Melbourne base foundation Fare Share foundation.

The 9th Annual Melbourne Latin Festival 2017
The 9th Annual Melbourne Latin Festival 2017

To see more information: https://melbournelatinfestival.com.au/ FACEBOOK: MelbourneLatinFestival

To Book Online: https://melbournelatinfestival.com.au/buy-tickets/

Palladium Voyage 2017 International Salsa Festival Bremen

Europe  / Germany / Bremen

Palladium Voyage 2017 International Salsa Festival Bremen – Germany April 7th – 9th

Palladium Voyage 2017 International Salsa Festival Bremen
Palladium Voyage 2017 International Salsa Festival Bremen

We invite you to be part of 2 nights of dancing, incredible performers & high quality workshops that will make you more comfortable on the dance floor at Bremen’s longest running Salsa Festival, The 8. Annual Palladium Voyage International Salsa Festival.

The City Hall and St. Petri Cathedral in the Market Square in Bremen Photo: https://www.hotel-hanseatic-bremen.de/en/index.html

The City Hall and St. Petri Cathedral in the Market Square in Bremen
The City Hall and St. Petri Cathedral in the Market Square in Bremen

Don’t miss it, because “quality never goes out of style”! This experience is truly one of a kind!

  • International & World Champions performers and teachers!
  • Home of the European Latin Dance Grand Prix!
  • Last year more than 50 confirmed performers/teachers & DJs representing over 17 countries, be excited for this year’s final line up!
  • 27 years of Salsa expertise from his founder & Artistic Director: Gallo Suarez. Him & his team have invited quality performers from around the Globe for great performances, history & dance instruction.
  • 2 very special nights of parties, dancing, learning, drinking, eating & making new friends!
  • Location in the heart of Bremen Friday, Saturday & Sunday: Schaulust Beim Handelsmuseum 9, Güterbahnhof Tor 48, 28195 Bremen.
  • The world’s very first Festival event honoring & celebrating Mambo & Salsa dancing origins… The Palladium Ballroom established in 1948!
  • Bremen Germany’s oldest & world wide recognized Annual Salsa Festival!
  • It is still an intimate event: meet, dance & learn from world champions & world class Salsa talent!
  • A showcase of Germany’s very best Salsa dance schools!
  • Our airport & main train station is only minutes away from our venues.

If you would like to participate at the European Latin Dance Grand Prix, please find all details here: http://eldgp.com

More Information:

 

6th International Kizomba Gala Hamburg

Europe / Germany / Hamburg

6th International Kizomba Gala Hamburg – Germany 13 – 16 Oct 2017

6th International Kizomba Gala Hamburg
6th International Kizomba Gala Hamburg

We invited you to be part to one of the oldest and Best Kizomba Festivals in Germany. They are pioneers of Kizomba in Germany. They have a tradition of inviting 1st class International Teachers and DJs. Just follow their history of the Artists they have invited the last years. They brought most of the Artists you see at current Festivals in Germany for the first time. That tell you about the quality of this event.

We believe in Quality not Quantity!

They have invited first class International Instructors to teach you the proper way of Dancing Kizomba, Zouk and other African Dance. There will be an intensive 3 days Workshop starting from 9pm Friday – 07:00 pm Sunday, which will end with a Party. The Party will be thrill with shows and animations from the international instructors.

6th International Kizomba Gala Hamburg - Flyers
6th International Kizomba Gala Hamburg – Flyers

Confirmed Artists

  • Helio Santos (Lisbon/Cabo Verde)
  • Tomas Keita (Barcelona/Guinea-Bissau)
  • Mauro D One and Ana Rita (Lisbon /Angola)
  • Lisandra Lopes (Lisbon/Cabo Verde)
  • Hugues & Ailina (Haiti/ Paris)
  • Abdel Zouk & Gabriella (Dusseldorf/Morroco/ Berlin/Curacao)
  • Ben & Adama (Hamburg/ Ghana/Cameroon)
  • Mattias & Kaou (Brussels / Morocco)
6th International Kizomba Gala Hamburg 2017
6th International Kizomba Gala Hamburg 2017

DJ’s

  • DJ Ze Zom (Angola/Copenhagen)
  • DJ Ben (Hamburg/Ghana)
  • DJ Dos Anjos (Rotterdam/ Cabo Verde)

and more to come…

Photo by Kristi Fuoco. http://blog.young-germany.de/2012/12/hamburg-germany-top-ten -reasons-i-love-living-here/

See more information at this page: http://www.kizombagala.com/

2nd Edition Kizomba-Salsa-Schiff July 8. Mississippi Queen Dampfer.

For the second time in Hamburg we are going to have a KIZOMBA SHIP with Salsa, Bachata and Zouk shared on 3 Floors. We have been able to book the Mississippi Queen with selected DJs & Live act. Germany Hamburg Überseebrücke South-East Ponton 20459.

Germany / Hamburg
Germany / Hamburg