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Albert Torres The Ambassador Of Salsa

North America / USA / New York

Albert Torres, a sympathetic boy with blushing cheeks who born in Brooklyn – New York – never suspected what his destiny had prepared him, to be the father of the Congresses of Salsa worldwide. His name would resound from North to South and from East to West, by the continents: American, European and Asian; in the different important scenes of the Latin music movement and would be the inspiration for many dancers of this branch.

His legacy would belong to the astonishment and shelter of the artists and the public that would applaud his talent, vigor and semblance to the rhythm of the phrase “Una Bulla”. This cheerful infant, without a doubt, was going to be a legend of Afro-Caribbean music. I’m talking about Albert Torres, The Ambassador of Salsa!

Albert began to listen to the salsa genre from the age of 5, staring in astonishment at the whole scene, sitting, of his first dance lessons … At the famous Palladium in New York, where his mother danced and liked the music of Mongo Santamaría and Tito Puente.

This child, future congressman of Salsa, grew up when the history of Latin popular music (salsa) was being written in the South Bronx, where Puerto Rican communities were having a great explosion of creativity and musical activity.

At the age of 12 years old his family decides to move to Puerto Rico, “By that time I did not want to speak Spanish, I did not want to be Puerto Rican. I did not want to be part of that environment”, said Torres. He only danced disco and Hustle. However, at the age of 15 his life took a dizzying turn when he heard:

“Oye que lio que lio se va a formar

cuando mi gatito sepa

y es tan simple la razón

El que a su gata le cuenta que el que a

su gata le cuenta

no es nada más que un ratón

un ratón…

…Échale semilla a la maraca pa que

suenen

chacucha cuchu cucha cucha

échale semilla a las maracas pa que

suenen

échale semilla a esas maracas oye

chacucha cucha cucha cucha

y hace rato está sonando sonando

chacucha cucha cucha cucha…”

Albert Torres simply fell in love with the Salsa thanks to this theme: “El Ratón” of Cheo Feliciano together to Fania All Stars. “The legends of salsa changed my life. When I heard these legends, that August 26th of 1971, in the Cheetah, something happened inside me. The music entered by the feet and came to my heart”. Thus, declared his beginnings in the Salsa, Albert Torres.

In 1991 his passion for Salsa took him to impress the girls of the neighborhood by his incredible steps to a Hollywood celebrity when he, first time, participated in the movie Mambo Kings in which he was chosen as one of the main dancers.

Hollywood - Albert Torres — Hollywood – Albert Torres

There he not only helped Antonio Banderas with the dance steps, but also with the English by that time for Banderas was very hard. In addition, during the filming of the movie Albert had the opportunity to share with big of Salsa like Celia Cruz, José Alberto “El Canario” and his great idol Tito Puente.

That film was the hit that catapulted Torres to world fame being chosen by Debbie Allen as one of the 4 dancers (of more than 400 couples) to participate in the Academy Awards (1993) and to dance “My beautiful Maria” whose Singer was Plácido Domingo and where he stood out as the first Puerto Rican to dance in the history of the ceremony.

Then, he returns to the cinema being the choreographer and dancer of Salsa scenes in the romantic film “Dance with Me” with Vanessa Williams and Chayanne during 5 months.

Later he worked on the movie “Out to See” (1998) with Jack Lemmon and Walter Matteau and in the same year he also made a guest starring appearance on the Keenan Wayan’s Show where he performed with Jennifer Lopez. Everywhere there was Salsa, Torres seemed to be there. At the time and with all this like trajectory Albert Torres in 1991 also began his stage as a producer.

He started promoting Salsa clubs in Los Angeles, “I lost a lot of money. Nobody wanted to know about Salsa”, said Albert. Nonetheless, he began to handle Johnny Polanco y Su Conjunto Amistad, which were the best-known salsa group in the Western United States.

In 1992 he founded his own company, Albert Torres Productions Inc. (ATP) and began to organize salsa parties in several places in Los Angeles. The most important were the Boathouse in Santa Monica, St. Marks in Venice and Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City.

At that moment the genre of salsa was losing popularity. However, Albert Torres with his wit, insight and a lot of intelligence pulled him forward on his own. He revived it in such a way that he became the most influential salsa promoter in the United States. He was who brought to Los Angeles some of the most important names in the Latin music such as: Fania All-Stars, El Gran Combo, Oscar D ‘León, José Alberto “El Canario” and the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, among many others.

In the late 1990s, after the I administration of President Clinton relaxed the laws restricting presentations by Cuban artists in the USA, Albert Torres was the first promoter, who brought to the famous and the notorious Van Van group to Los Angeles in January, 1997.

The show, which took place in a night club in downtown LA, was a success. Since then, Los Van Van has received major media awareness with prestigious publications such as Los Angeles Times, New York Times, among others and including the most coveted music honor, a Grammy and Latin Grammy nomination. Torres’s passion and promotional skills have played a key role in the U.S.A Latin Entertainment explosion. Ricardo Lemvo, musician and singer living in Los Angeles, founder and leader of the salsa band Makina Loka said:

“Personally, I have a great deal of gratitude to Albert. In 1996 when I released my first album, Tata Masamba, he was the one who presented my music to the Latin audience in Los Angeles. He also placed my band at Sportsmen’s Lodge, Grand Park and many other venues. Albert was also who recommended me to film director Randa Haines and as a result, my band, Makina Loca came out in the movie “Dance with Me” with Chayanne and Vanessa Williams. I will be eternally grateful to Albert Torres for giving me a hand at the beginning of my career”.

1997 was crucial for Albert and the world of Salsa in Los Angeles because began the dream of Mr. Eli Irizarri of Puerto Rico, the concept of the Salsa Congresses in San Juan. “I was not the first year, but I heard a lot of nice things even though it was a financial failure. I attended the event in 1998 and was the master of ceremonies. Then, I started the same concept in Los Angeles beginning in 1999 and in the next 8 years following the Los Angeles Congress stood out as the largest in the world. There attend more than 6000 people daily arriving from more than 42 countries”, said Albert for an Argentine media.

In 1998, at the head of ATP, organized the first edition of Los Angeles Salsa Congress and in May 1999 was carried out, with the presentation of Tito Puente in the opening. In this first congress Albert transformed the event into an exciting music and dance venue that attracted 20,000 Latin Music enthusiasts from all over the world and USA and with such great success that he immediately became co-producer Salsa Congresses in over 32 countries.

“My most important desire to be a promoter of the Congresses would be that this can be used for dancers, can realize their dream of dancing on a stage and also find a way to respect the dancers as they deserve it. This is extremely important”. Albert Torres.

In LA Salsa Congress the stars are born, many of the world renowned dancers have their start at this event. The mission of LA Salsa Fest is to pass on to the next generation through educational seminars, dance workshops and being able to perform on stage.

Since then, Albert Torres Productions has created and produced the World’s Largest Salsa Music event. In addition to this, ATP is the co-producer of the World Salsa, broadcast from Las Vegas every year by the ESPN TV network being watched by more than 20 million homes worldwide, where more than 1000 competing dancers will be known on the planet. “On ESPN told me that if I wanted to see it on TV I had to do competitions.

I do not like it, but for the dancers to get to know each other worldwide, I decided to make the World Salsa Championship, the biggest and most important salsa tournament in the world. Now, since April (2012) I decided to do it alone, without partners, and now it’s called World Latin Dance Cup. I added other categories like cumbia, bachata, casino, children and people over 45 years. We have about 20 categories”. Torres Said in an interview with a Peruvian media.

In the World Latin Dance Cup No requirements. You have to take stock and follow the world rules. These are of time, originality of the dressing rooms, of musicality. If you drop the wig, the earring (while dancing), points are removed; if you do not wear stockings, too. A wig will not give points, but if it falls it will take the points. In this championship there is not a world champion, so there is a champion in each category.

According to his friends, Albert was a “workaholic”. He was always on the road promoting salsa music through all the congresses he organized around the world. Always in transit, he spent one night in Istanbul, the next in Paris and the following week in Tokyo. For example, at the beginning of 2007 he had 48 weeks of travel and in one year he could travel to 48 exotic countries such as Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Japan, Hong Kong, Brazil, Bulgaria, Romania, China, Colombia, Venezuela, Spain, Mexico, Peru, Holland, Hamburg, Italy, Switzerland, Sweden, France, Ecuador, New Zealand, Australia and Puerto Rico.

Therefore, it is not surprising to see on your Facebook wall, the immense and felt messages of thanks from dancers from all corners of the earth. His latest project called “The Legacy Project” is an initiative to combine our music culture with the latest technology tendencies in order to reach and unite more people so future generations can appreciate, preserve and be part of the history of Latin dance and music around the world.

In 2011 Albert Torres was honored to be accepted as a Member of the Council for Dance of UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization) and Elected Grand Marshall at the National New York Puerto Rican Day Parade in front of 2 million spectators lined up on 5th Ave that past June 12 of the same year. This past May, 25th the world of Salsa and entertainment received a huge impact, the news of the death of Albert Torres, victim of a Stroke.

Family, friends, national and international press as well as web portals lamented and reviewed this regrettable fact. Rudy Mangual, creator of the famous magazine Latin Beat Magazine commented to an international media that before this terrible fatal outcome, Albert was very delicate of health in the last months; he had diabetes and had an infection in the pancreas. He also said that he regretted his gone because he and his wife Yvette Mangual had a very special affection to Albert.

Albert Torres’s family wishes to thank all of our Salsa Family for your thoughts, prayers and well wishes during this difficult time. Albert passed away today May 25th, 2017, peacefully, surrounded by family and loved ones. We all find comfort knowing that he is now promoting and dancing alongside his Idols, Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Cheo Feliciano, Tito Rodriguez and Ray Barreto. As well as his close friends Johnny Polanco, Rudy Regalado, Alicia Gomez and many others. We would love nothing more than for you to help us continue keeping his legacy and DREAM OF UNITY alive by supporting the great event that he started 19 years ago:

The LA SALSA FEST.

Thank you again and may you all be blessed. UNA BULLAAAA!

Rest In Peace ALBERT TORRES

6/14/1956 – 5/25/2017

On the other hand, different personalities of the artistic world expressed their deep pain:

“Salsa and I lost a good friend. Like everyone else in the music world, I was in shock: Albert was an exuberant, vibrant person. It seems unfair that he left the planet in the prime of his life at only 60 years old.

I remember in one of our many conversations, he expressed his great desire to bring the famous African salsa group Africando to the United States. Africando had a song, “Yay Boy,” that was all the rage not only in New York but also in Latin America, but not many people had seen the group live. It was a huge undertaking to organize a concert with Africando since the lead vocalists lived in Senegal, Togo, and other parts of Africa. When Albert finally managed to bring Africando to Los Angeles in 2004, he was over the moon. That was one of his greatest triumphs.

Albert, your passing is a huge blow to all of us in the salsa world. We will miss you terribly. Thank you for everything you’ve done to promote our music. Salsa. We will never forget you.

Rest in peace, brother.” Ricardo Lemvo

“Creating Unity through Salsa”, words from my brother Albert Torres. That’s exactly what we are trying to do, will keep this in my heart forever… Your legacy lives. Thank you Albert! Thank you Edwin and the #LASalsaFest team for this”. Tony Succa

Famed Salsa legend, dancer and Hollywood choreographer turned mega event planner Albert Torres is already part of our history. His continuous efforts to globalize Salsa have made a major impact on the preservation and accessibility of both Salsa Music and Salsa Dance around the world. To achieve this, he was constantly traveling around the world, encouraging conferences and festivals, discovering talents for dancing.

No doubt, Albert Torres brought the music it in the blood. He had his own vibration and constantly he was being a role model. He played that key role in the confluence of people and places that created an environment for the growth of Latin music in America and the world.

For that reason, on the Facebook wall of Albert thousands of emotions multiply. And the messages coincide in the gratefulness and the claim of “una bulla”, una bulla salsera para Albert. Today on some side of the Salsa´s Big, sure, you’re dancing and singing!

Albert Torres in solidarity with charitable causes

“Before I was an event producer, I handled 50 beds in a hospital helping people with drug, alcohol, and mental problems… I have been sober since December 14, 1985. For that, I can live and help others to live their Dreams”. Albert Torres

Great dancer and Champion fell ill last year after the WLDC. With the support of dancers worldwide he was able to beat leukimia and will be back this year. What an inspiration and great story. Let’s all appreciate each day that we are blessed with. Welcome back Jeremy.

ATP continues with the Albert’s legacy and offering top-notch quality events with world-class performers. His bands are legendary and his events feature some of the finest musicians and dancers the world has ever known.

“Para mí la salsa no es latina sino mundial. No tiene barreras de colores ni de país. Es increíble ver niños chiquitos bailar como los de los 80 que bailan… Para mí la salsa es como si fuera una paella, una comida increíble: tiene tantos condimentos y tantas cositas.

La salsa es así: con un poquito de rumba, jazz, tango, y si le pones swing, ballet y se mezclan todos con una bella canción de Óscar de León, algo sucede que nos afecta desde los tobillos hasta el corazón… Los problemas siempre van a estar esperándonos en casa, pero qué cosa bonita llegar a un lugar donde todo el mundo se lleva. Cuando empieza esa música todos tenemos algo en común. Ojalá el mundo aprendiera de eso”. Albert Torres (June 14, 1956 – May 25, 2017)

To learn more about Albert Torres and his events, please visit: www.worldlatindancecup.com, www.mysalsacongress.com and www.alberttorresproductions.com

To read more about Albert Torres’ work with Baile de Los Niños, providing cultural outreach programs to at-risk youth and low-income families, visit: www.alberttorresevents.com/bailedelo sninos/mission.asp

Alain Pérez Triumphs in Puerto Rico with a Confident Stride

The exclusive Tropicoro Club at the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel in Isla Verde was overflowing to welcome the multifaceted Cuban musician Alain Pérez, who performed in Puerto Rico for the first time as a solo artist. Before the dance concert, held on Puerto Rican soil, which closed Alain’s first solo tour of the United States, he had performed in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Tampa.

To open the concert, the Cubanísimo concept, led by Puerto Rican bassist and cuatrista Jesús Algarín, set the mood for the audience. The young musician made a confident entrance, accompanying himself with powerful interpretations on his instruments, skillfully directing his own orchestra. Prior to Alain Pérez’s show, the musicians of Cubanísimo—cuatrista, singer, and director Jesús Algarín, trumpeter Miguel Ortiz, vocalists Carmen Jiménez and Gilberto Félix, bassist Félix Juan Algarín, bongos player Freddy Camacho, conga player Jeren Guzmán, and flutist Juan Ortiz—brought to life songs like ‘El yerbero moderno,’ ‘Esa niña,’ ‘El bodeguero,’ ‘La rosa oriental,’ ‘El paralítico,’ ‘Así fue,’ ‘Parampampam,’ ‘Lo que fue no será,’ ‘Que te pedí,’ and ‘El cuarto de Tula.’ Once the musicians, directed by Algarín, finished their set, Alain Pérez made his triumphant entrance.

The singer, bassist, guitarist, percussionist, pianist, orchestra director, arranger, and music producer had been in Puerto Rico on a handful of occasions as a backing musician for artists of the stature of Issac Delgado and Chucho Valdés, to name a few. This time, of course, he arrived as a solo artist and with force, to the rhythm of ‘El cuento de la buena pipa.’ Once on stage, the “guajiro,” who confessed in an interview to having “converted to flamenco,” showed that he felt at home while singing, dancing, guaraching, playing the bass, soneando, and rumbando. Once Alain and his orchestra warmed up the luxurious venue, which was overflowing with people, the virtuous multi-instrumentalist performed songs such as ‘ADN,’ ‘El sabor de mi rumba,’ ‘Amor fugaz,’ ‘Son con moña,’ ‘Hablando con Juana,’ ‘Shorcito,’ ‘Modo avión,’ ‘Batilongo,’ ‘La lámpara,’ ‘Pa’ to’ la vida,’ ‘La moneda,’ the title track from his most recent production: ‘Bingo,’ ‘Andaba solo’—a duet with the “Caballero de la Salsa,” Gilberto Santa Rosa—and ‘Pistolero,’ the latter loudly requested by the elegant audience.

Alain Pérez acompañado de su bajista Mauro Cabrejas

Gilberto joined Alain to sing ‘Andaba solo’ as a duet, but not before giving a “welcome to this beast of music, with whom I had the opportunity to record and whom I had the opportunity to meet in person recently,” clarifying that he already knew him musically, adding that they would sing “without rehearsal, but with affection.”

During the show, the musician who defines himself as a guajiro, sonero, guarachero, and rumbero, delivered fusions characteristic of Alain’s great contribution to Latin music, within Afro-Cuban traditions influenced by his exposure to Hispanic folklore. Pérez built the show using a varied repertoire that included salsa, timba, son, and bolero in interesting fusions. Accompanied by his band—composed of Mauro Cabrejas, Josué Puig, Roberto Medina, Víctor Oliva, Alejandro Sosa, Robelis Arévalo, Julio Puig, Yunnier Stoker, Cristhian Díaz, Darío Andrés, Alejandro Fernández, and Isaac Cambar—Alain Pérez delivered on his promise: “a night full of Caribbean flavor, rhythm, and

energy.”

From the moment Alain started the dance, the energy did not wane. The audience connected with the artist and the person, who visibly emotional, repeatedly expressed gratitude “for the affection received and the nobility perceived,” adding that since setting foot on Puerto Rican soil he has “felt a lot of peace” and that he’s going to have to buy “a little ranch here.”

With the Puerto Rico performance, Alain successfully concluded his first solo tour of the United States with resounding success. That was the idea. Here in beautiful Borinquen, the audience while demanding makes sure the artist feels the love and respect with which they are received and celebrated. Congratulations!

Also Read: Bella Martinez, the irreverent Salsa writer

Tempo Latino: An Unmissable Event in Vic Fezensac!

Get ready, salsa lovers and Latin rhythm enthusiasts, because the Tempo Latino festival is returning to Vic Fezensac from July 24 to 27, 2025, for its 30th edition, promising an unforgettable experience.

This internationally renowned event transforms the picturesque French town into the epicenter of Latin music and culture.

How to Get to the Heart of the Party?

Getting to Tempo Latino is easier than ever. If you prefer convenience, the festival offers a bus service from Mont de Marsan, Agen, and Toulouse.

Once in Vic Fezensac, the “navetitas” will take you to your accommodation within the Community of Municipalities of D’Artagnan in Fezensac, and are free for accompanied children with prior reservation.
For those choosing the train, the closest stations are Auch, Agen, and Toulouse.
And if you’re coming by car, Vic Fezensac is 1 hour and 20 minutes from Toulouse and 2 hours from Bordeaux. You can even carpool for a greener arrival!

IMG July 2025

Accessibility for Everyone

Tempo Latino prides itself on being an inclusive festival. If you come by car, parking spaces are available at Place du Foirail. During the festival, Rue Reynal and Avenue Edmond Bergès will be pedestrianized, facilitating access to the venue. Most importantly, all Festival stages—Scène Tempo Arena, Scène de La Conga, Scène Cap Tempo, and Concert Église—are accessible to people with reduced mobility. There is even a dedicated platform at the Tempo Arena to ensure a perfect view of the stage.

Accommodation Options for Every Festival-goer

To fully immerse yourself in the experience, Tempo Latino offers various accommodation options:

Goulin and Les Acacias Reception Areas: If you have a concert pass, you can camp in tents at the Goulin rugby stadium or the Acacias football stadium (new for 2025!). Reservations are valid from Thursday morning to Monday morning with a fixed fee.
Cauderon Reception Area: The municipality of Vic Fezensac is opening this area for tents, cars, and motorhomes, with a discharge station available. It will be open from July 21 to July 27, 2025. For more details, you can contact the town hall at 05 62 64 47 00 (press 1).
Other Options: The Tourist Office offers a list of available accommodations and “Esprit libre” packages that include accommodation and festival tickets. You can visit armagnac-dartagnan.com or call 05 62 06 34 90.

A Star-Studded Lineup for 2025!

The 30th edition of Tempo Latino is packed with talent. Here’s a preview of what awaits you at the Tempo’Arena:

Friday, July 25: Via La Habana
- 9:00 p.m.: Eliades Ochoa
- 11:00 p.m.: Issac Delgado y su Orquesta + guests (Haila and Alain Perez…)
Saturday, July 26: “Minha noite brasileira” via Rio De Janeiro
- 9:00 p.m.: Joao Selva
- 11:00 p.m.: Flavia Coelho
Sunday, July 27: Via Nueva York
- 9:00 p.m.: Yuri Buenaventura
- 11:00 p.m.: Spanish Harlem Orchestra

Additionally, on Thursday, July 24, Scène La Conga will offer a “La Electronica de Bogotá” night with DJ sets by Caribombo and SimaO, and a performance by Acido Pantera.

Get Your Tickets

You can book your tickets online at tempolatino.com/billetterie, at the physical store at 3 rue du Général Delort 32190 Vic-Fezensac, or by phone at +33 (0)5 62 06 56 66.

Don’t miss the 30th edition of Tempo Latino, a vibrant celebration of Latin music and culture in the heart of France!

Azúcar Latin Dance Company

North America / Canada / Ottawa

Ottawa’s premiere dance school specializing in Latin, Street and AfroCaribbean dances. Their mission is to bring the energy, passion and joy of dance to Ottawa and get you dancing to the music in your heart. Teachers expert and friendly instruction will get you dance floor-ready in record time, and the group outings and social events will introduce you to the amazing Ottawa dance community!

They take inspiration from the original Queen of salsa, Celia Cruz. She is famous for her sunny disposition, her warmth and passion, as well as her trademark of shouting “Azúcar!” (“Sugar” in Spanish) in her songs. They are inspired by her positive attitude towards life and her desire to share the joy of dance and music with as many people as possible

Meet The Team

Jeff Huang

Director is passionate about music and dances. He started dancing Latin street dances (salsa, bachata, merengue, and cha cha) in 2005 and has not stopped since – learning from many wonderful and talented instructors across Canada as well as across the globe.

This has made Jeff a well-rounded teacher with an eye for detail, while his easy going attitude makes everybody feels welcome at the studio. Jeff is extremely dedicated to his students, believing that they are the true heart of the company. He hopes to create a loving community where everyone can learn and laugh together, and share their love of dance. CONTACT JEFF [email protected]

Ana Gherasim

Director Ana is definitive proof that anyone can learn to dance. Discouraged from pursuing dance from a young age, she grew up convinced that she had two left feet. Thanks to Jeff’s infinite patience, she took up salsa in 2008 and is now one of our most enthusiastic teachers.

While Jeff is the (clave tempo-ed) heart of Azúcar! Ana is its brain, also dealing with the less artistic aspects of school management and administration. When she’s not teaching or running the studio, you’ll find her in most of our classes, lending a hand as well as honing her own style. CONTACT ANA [email protected]

Salsa Level 1, Instructors: Ana & Brian, Jeff & Ashvini

Take your first salsa steps! Discover the salsa rhythm, basic steps, left and right turns, crossbody leads, inside traveling turns, and simple combinations. You will also learn partnering technique and simple footwork to spice up your dancing! No partners needed!

Salsa Level 2 Instructors: Ana & Jeff

Go beyond the basics! Each 7-week session we introduce a combination of footwork and partnering moves based on common salsa patterns, including double-hand turns, hammerlock holds, wraps, traveling turn variations and more. We also introduce spin technique and body isolation exercises at this level. No partners needed!

Salsa Level 3 Instructors: Ana & Jeff

Once you have mastered ALL the moves we teach in Salsa Level 2, explore the endless combinations salsa has to offer while honing your technique and style. In this class we introduce more complex concepts (such as copas, 360s, multiple spins) and create new footwork and partnering combinations that will make you the star of the dance floor. No partners needed!

Salsa Shines Choreography Instructor: Ashvini

Ever feel like you’re not sure what to do when it comes to salsa shines? This class introduces and breaks down shines footwork, technique and styling through learning a piece of shines choreography. It’s perfect for those who would like to improve their shines repertoire and feel more confident on the social floor! As an added bonus – if you’ve ever been interested in exploring salsa performance, this is a great taster for what it’s like to learn and perfect a piece of choreography, without the pressure to actually perform (unless you really want to!). Open to all levels and genders.

Bachata Level 1 Instructors: Ana & Brian

Take your first Bachata steps! Our Level 1 course introduces you to the bachata rhythm, basic steps, turns and promenades that are the core of this fun and intimate dance, as well as basic styling elements to add sizzle to your dancing! Get dance floor-ready in 7 weeks! No partners needed!

Bachata Level 2 Instructors: Ana & Jeff

Once you are comfortable with the beginner moves covered in Bachata Level 1, this class takes it up a notch and introduces more complex moves. Mix things up with outside turns, cuddles and hammerlocks, fancy footwork, sensual body isolations and lots of turn patterns and combinations to take straight to the dance floor. No partners needed!

Bachata Level 3 Instructors: Ana & Jeff

Take your bachata to new heights! Once you have mastered Bachata Level 2, join this intermediate-level class. Learn how to get comfortable with your partner, develop great bachata leading and following technique, and make your dancing stand out from the crowd! No partners needed!

Salsaton Instructor: Emilie

Spice it up with Salsa & Reggaeton! This class is about adding spice to how you dance, whether you dance as your workout, to build up your confidence on the dance floor or just to have fun! Emilie will be giving lots of options for everyone to feel comfortable.

Dancehall Funk Instructor: Emilie

Dancehall is a Jamaican dance that includes elements of Reggae, African, Hip Hop, House and Latin. It’s all about confidence, creativity, expression, attitude, and FUN. Come learn a combination of hot moves and an energetic routine full of street smart choreography, dancing to the hottest music. Get ready for an energetic and challenging class!

Heels Instructor: Emilie

Strut your stuff! Celebrate creativity, individuality, uniqueness and fierceness! Dance styles such as Vogue, Sass and Jazz to get you moving to great music in heels. Learn a sexy routine and find new confidence on and off the dance floor! You won’t want to miss this class with Emilie!

Afro-Beats Level 1 Instructor: Natalie

Learn the basics of African dance and movement groove to great music, and get your sweat on with fun choreography! We’ll explore styles such as Azonto, Coupé Decalé, Afro House, and Dancehall. You will sweat and laugh, make new friends and improve your stamina as you learn fun combinations, technique and routines. Personal expression is encouraged!

Samba Instructor: Natalie

Join the carnival vibe! Experience the pulsating rhythms and energetic moves of Samba. Learn exhilarating dance combinations and routines as we travel across the floor and venture into some of the liveliest dances of Brazilian culture. This exciting class is certain to empower, energize, lift your spirits….and your booty too!

Sunday Workshop Series

Come explore a different dance, or aspect of dancing, the first and third Sunday of each month!

Don’t forget to know more about Azucar! in their website, so you can sing up and shop. Natalie http://www.azucarottawa.com/

Kizomba Conquering the World of Salsa

North America / USA /

These are some of the things I learned about Kizomba when my boss told me to write about it: Its official language is Portuguese; I bet you didn’t know that, either.

See, even when we thought we knew about this music genre, because we hear it at parties, get together or social events; as a Caribbean music, known by its movements that are alike the common Latin rhythms, it actually comes from Angola; a country in Southern Africa, near Namibia; and its official language is Portuguese.

That is why the first and most popular Kizomba songs are in Portuguese.

Diogo Cão was that responsible Portuguese explorer to discover Angola and to determine its official language and culture. Who could possibly know that after the colonization era, MUSIC would be that one thing capable of combining cultures and mixing beats taste between humans? Kizomba is a clear example of that. Another fun fact is that its name comes from Kimbudo; which means ‘party’, maybe that’s why it’s so exciting to dance it.

It’s good to know that its characteristic for its slow and sensuous rhythm, came with a mixed touch of African rhythm and Haitian Kompa, until it became the one we know now a day. In the 1990s, when the actual Kizomba got more and more popular, Angolan semba dancers started to adapt their semba steps, according to the tempo and flavour of the Kizomba beats.

Back in the 60’s, the big parties were referred as: “Kizombadas”; since at that time, Kizomba wasn’t really “Kizomba”. Imagine calling your own parties like that, funning right? Many other dance styles from other continents were also enjoyed, since the rest of Africa received the influence of many other cultures; as a result of African rhythms and European styles.

As Angola did with Portugal. During the years, it has spread ALL AROUND THE WORLD; to countries like: England, France, Spain, Poland, Denmark, Belgium, Sweden, Belarus, Lithuania, Egypt, Switzerland, Serbia, Canada and the United States of America. And now, we hear it in South America, through all these famous artists like: Prince Royce, Romeo Santos and Juan Luis Guerra.

Not always was Kizomba defined, as we know it today. See, through the years, it has been confused with other genres like Cape Verdaen; which turned out to be the first similar rhythm before Kizomba was, what it is today. Many immigrants confused Cape Verdaen rhythm with Kizomba vibes, back in the 80’s. This genre comes from Cape Verde, in Africa; where the official language is Portuguese as well, and their movements are very similar.

Another interesting fact that I learned about the origin of Kizomba, was its first popular name, “Zouk”. It is good to know that this term represents the origin of Cape Verdaen and Kizomba, because people used to call every type of music by this name. Now with the other name, Kizomba, people can tell them apart. In the history of Kizomba, we will find the popular Brazilian Zouk dance, evolved from a dance called Lambada.

In this following video you could see how to dance Zouk and Lambada https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlK5oIjVNfM By HOWCAST

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSpV HeDGr9UbREhRca0qwsA

I know what you are thinking; How many dance types come from the same one? That in fact is the magic of Kizomba; it involves so many rhythms and cultures and that’s why it as special and popular, as it is today.

Lambada, was a dance that took over most night clubs in Brazil; especially, in Rio de Janeiro. In the mid 90’s, Brazilians discovered Zouk from the French Caribbean; which had many similarities with Lambada, because of its Caribbean rhythm influence.

Soon, Lambada started to adapt to Zouk. However; Zouk’s rhythm was slower than the Lambada, so it was necessary to make alterations to the dance, including to its basic steps.

All Zouk professionals then decided to call Lambada style, Brazilian Zouk (Zouk Brasileiro); with the objective to protect their culture and also with the objective, not to interfere with different culture’s interpretations of Zouk.

Ghetto Zouk Dance is one type of Zouk that a couple dances to, very closely with higher dynamics, fun, flow and precision, that follows the ghetto Zouk beat. It combines the basic Kizomba steps and techniques, with faster rhythm in footwork, requiring firm posture and higher level of power, pressure and movement control from both partners.

In the Ghetto Zouk Dance, both partners share the same amount of pressure, tension and impulse which makes, especially the ladies, be more involved in the dance. It also improves the communication between partners and helps them to maintain the flow. Ghetto Zouk Dance uses syncopated rhythm more often to better reflect the beat. In practice, it is demonstrated by faster footwork than the one of Kizomba and higher overall dynamics of the dance.

Unlike very soft movements of Kizomba, Ghetto Zouk Dance applies more energy and extension, while still emphasizing the precision of the movement.

In this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7n9p DcSGwgg you will see how to dance Guetto Zouk step by step. By GHETTO ZOUK DANCE & KIZOMBA PRAGUE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA6q QHYwbcfaIQNL23tKk-A

Knowing its steps, in some places of the world, Kizomba is known as African Tango. The body position is very similar to the Argentine Tango, with the upper body leaning forward with head touching at times.

The lower body, particularly the hips, is very fluid using forward, backward and circular movements, in connection with the partner. Like salsa, dancers can break apart and perform ‘solo’ movements.

Everything we learned today about this music genre and its origin leaves us the knowledge that cultures were made to mix up, to blend with others and to spread their believes. Music is that one thing supposed to teach us, how to enjoy life and make dancing as special as it is. The different styles and movements make us feel part of their culture and origin.

Involving all tastes and rhythms, known by its slow, insistent, somewhat harsh, yet sensuous rhythm, as the result of electronic percussion, some of the most popular Kizomba and Zouk artists of all times are:

Kaysha, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (1974 – present):

Kaysha is a French-based musician originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo. His music is a blend of styles such as kizomba, rhumba, zouglou, zouk, zouk love, calypso, R&B, and hip hop. Kaysha is also a successful music producer, having produced songs for some of the bestknown artists on the Afro-Caribbean scene, including Passi, Solaar, Jacob Desvarieux, Soumia, Lynnsha, Elizio, and Ludo.

Elizio, aka Mister ODC (Original Di Cabo Verde):

He is a singer-songwriter, born in Angola in 1979; of Cape Verdean origin. Revealed with the title 10 fois, 100 fois featuring Perle Lama in 2003, Elizio quickly meets his first big solo success with Melodia which leads him to the top of the zouk scene. The artist then connects the tubes and expands his musical universe with more than 70 titles, ranging from general dancefloor with sounds like Bad Man on Kizomba with Angel or Make love on tempo in particular, through the kuduro as Sabi Di Mas.

Anselmo Ralph Andrade Lamb (born 1981 in Luanda, Angola):

Better known as Anselmo Ralph; is a singer of R&B, Soul and Kizomba. In January 2006 he released his first album titled “Love Stories”. That year he was nominated by the Channel O Music Video Awards in the “Best R&B” and “Best Director” categories, and by the MTV Europe Music Awards 2006 in the “Best African Artist” category.

Anselmo Ralph - Kizomba — Anselmo Ralph – Kizomba

In 2012, Coca-Cola announced a promotional campaign featuring Ralph, their first with an Angolan artist. As of January 2013, Ralph was touring the Benguela region of Angola to promote his album “Best of Anselmo Ralph”, which premiered the month before in the #5 position on the Portugal Albums Top 30 chart.

Nelson Freitas was born and raised in the Netherlands, with creativity and talent he constantly tries to refresh the world of Zouk music. In 1997 the compilation CD of “MOBASS Presents” was released featuring the track, “Hoje em Dia” (Now a Days), which officially launched Quatro Plus (formerly known as Quatro) in the market. As one of the lead singers of the group, Quatro Plus went on to release three successful albums “4-Voz” (Four Voices) in 1998, “Bem Conche” (Get to Know Us) in 2002 and “Ultima Viagem” (Last Voyage) in 2005.

Nelson Freitas - Kizomba — Nelson Freitas – Kizomba

In almost a decade, Freitas has earned what’s rightfully his as he is of the most admired and respected producers, singers and writers in the Cape Verdean as well as the Zouk music industry. With a blend of Cape Verdean Kriol and English lyrics, a twist of R&B and hip-hop incorporated with Zouk and traditional Cape Verdean music. With all these ingredients Nelson made his solo album called “Magic” In October 2006.The album sold over 25.000 copies worldwide.

Don Kikas, born Emílio Camilo de Carvalho, is an Angolan singer from the city of Sumbe in the southern Angolan province of Cuanza Sul. In 1997, Don Kikas released his second album, Pura Sedução which was silver in Portugal. That same year, the album’s Esperança Moribunda song received the “Music of the Year” award granted by the Rádio Nacional de Angola (national radio station). By this time, invitations were extended for Kikas to perform at international level. His third album, Xeque Mate, released in December 1999, produced a totally-renewed Don Kikas as it included songs recorded in three different countries and featured foreign musicians as well.

Don Kibas - Kizomba — Don Kibas – Kizomba

Soumia is of Moroccan origin and was born on August 27, 1977 in Saint Mandé in Paris. She made her appearance onto the music scene first in 1998 singing a duet with Talina on the RUBIZOUK compilation album. Since then, she has been featured in numerous compilations including ZOUK R&B VOLUMEs I, II & III; TROPICAL HIT MACHINE and SECTION ZOUK. She released her first album STILL IN LOVE in 2002 and her hits include Mes Sentiments; Trahison; and Avec des si ou Rendez moi.