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Glenn Weiss & Barbara Gore - City Lights Ball organizers

This weekend offers an exciting treat for those interested in world class ballroom dancing. The City Lights Ball, hosted by Glenn Weiss and Barbara Gore of Menlo Park, is a three-day event full of competition, workshops, and general open dancing for the Ballroom enthusiast. From Friday, January 29th through Monday, February 1st, the Doubletree Hotel at 2050 Gateway Place in San Jose is the location for hundreds to attend dance camps and cheer on competitors from amateur to professional in American Smooth, International Latin, Standard, and Rhythm dances. Juniors, adults, seniors, and teams will compete for a chance to win in their division this weekend.

Take this weekend and watch the exciting world of Ballroom, because it’s more than just a dance, it’s a lifestyle!

For more information on the City Lights Ball:

Online: City Lights Ball

Call: 1-650-223-4950

John Narvaez & Liz Rojas

John Narvaez and Liz Rojas, directors of the world famous SalsaMania Dance Company, are hosting the 2nd San Francisco Salsa Festival on March 25th through the 27th. For three days, The Westin Hotel at 50 3rd Street in San Francisco will host dancers from the Bay and beyond. Workshops, performances, and competitions are the highlight of this event and allow Salsa dance enthusiasts to see the best of what the Bay offers. Vendors such as AC Dancewear and Danscents! will be present to offer attendees dance fashion and fragrance. Additionally, there will be live music as well as DJs spinning classic and contemporary Salsa until 2a.m.

Get ready for the Salsa heat wave and get fit with Salsa dance. Because it’s more than just a dance it’s a lifestyle!

For more information about John and Liz Productions visit them online:

Website: John and Liz Productions

Ashanti Altovese - professional dancer and instructor

Damn! It’s getting cold out there. That can only mean one thing, summer is gone, fall is here, and winter is coming. Who’s got it lucky? Florida? Texas? Nope! Ain’t nobody got it sweet like Cali baby! Why is that you ask? Because we bring sexy all year long. That’s right – when the temperatures fall outside, things heat up inside. And here’s a look at how you can heat up in the winter West Coast style.

First off, let’s clarify that the West Coast is where it’s hot because it literally is hot. This place has been burning all summer long! Smokey the Bear is like a Bolt running from the burning brush in Cali country, and we’re all high off the contact smoke from the imported Cannabis planted in the public parks from our neighbors to the south. Muchas Gracias Amigos! So truth be told, we know how to hold it down when it comes to the heat. Winter’s approach doesn’t dampen our spirits, just our lawns, roads, bridges…well, you get the point.

We all know that winter brings weight. You stay inside munching on those cookies and watching the Real Housewives of Atlanta and next thing you know; you get up for a drink and find 20lbs following you from the couch to the fridge! Don’t let the cold get you plumped up and porky. What you need to do is make it hot with some bump and grind. I’m not talking about in the bedroom, but if you got it like that, I’m not mad at you. Dig in and save room for seconds and dessert! No I’m talking about the fitness fire of Samba Cabaret at Hot Pink Feathers Showgirl Academy by Kellita Maloof. To read more click here.

Ashanti Altovese - professional dancer and instructor

Hola Salseros!

I’m an avid lover of the rhythm and dance of Salsa. The feeling it gives me when I’m moving to the music can’t compare to anything else. Whether at a dance studio social, a congress, or at a nightclub, you can feel the energy of the music and expression of that through the people dancing. For me, it’s not just about the music or the dance, but also the style that we bring to it, and by style I mean fashion.

Salsa Fashion is one of my favorite things to talk about because who doesn’t love fashion in some way. It’s an expression of self. And as dancers, we often want to show our personality through our dance fashion. When I survey the Salsa scene, I notice a more casual approach to fashion versus one that brings fashion to fore-front as much as the dancing itself. Now, this isn’t right or wrong, it’s just an observation. Which makes me wonder if Salsa has become more of a casual dance because of the popularity of the dance, commercialization of the music, and casual approach to the fashion side of it. I invite you to share your opinion and perspective if this topic interests you. =)

Fashion is a reflection of culture, socioeconomic status, and other factors, and in dance, this is no different. In the US, our culture is definitely laid back and casual. With jeans and t-shirts, designer and generic store brands, leading the way. And why not? It’s easy to “Throw and Go” and still look good with jeans and t-shirts if you accessorize with jewelry, sun glasses, and other items. For salseros, this is convenient because a dancer may go out around 3 times a week, and with the cover charge to get in the club, the toll to get into the city if your coming from afar, the gas for the car, and maybe a drink at the venue, it can get expensive really fast. But with the casual approach, is Salsa losing finesse, class, and suave that it could have if we upped the ante with our attire? I mean isn’t it nice to walk into a club, a social, or a congress and see people dressed to the nines like ladies and gentlemen while dancing to the hot rhythms of Salsa, Mambo, and Cha Cha Cha?

Now, there’s the other side to this. Some could say, “Well, wouldn’t dressing up every time you go out be damn expensive, make the scene snobby, and intimidate people who are just coming into contact with the scene? Wouldn’t that in fact make the dance more distant and less accessible to other dancers looking to explore Salsa? Additionally, it’s the the music and dancers themselves who make Salsa classy. Fashion has no influence and if so, it’s secondary to the music and dance. ” Hmmmm….these are all valid points. But I would argue that it’s the whole package that makes the difference.

The music, the dance, and the fashion draws you in like a moth to a flame. And once you’re in, it’s addictive! At least that’s been the case for me. So I ask all my fellow salseros, use your creativity and self-expression that you channel through the dance to fashion as well. Let’s be Salsa’s ladies and gentlemen on the dance floor through our dance etiquette, our dance style, and our dance fashion to develop the next generation of dancer’s to be sexy, sophisticated, and Salsalicious!.

by

Ashanti Altovese

Ashanti Altovese - professional dancer and instructor

Hola Salseros!

What’s hotter than a night of seductive dancing to live Latin music? Well the sexy bodies that express those rhythms through sensual and technical body movement. You know what I’m talking about…everyone’s seen them! We have some of the hottest bodies strutting their stuff on the dance floor in professional Latin dancing.

Now, we all have our favorites. Maybe there is someone that you look forward to dancing with all night not just because of their personality, and dance skill, but because they are just damn sexy and physically fit! And who am I to argue with you. Draw your inspiration from whatever motivates you the most. But always remember to keep it professional.

So now, let’s get into what keeps those sexy bodies tight, right, and oh so light. Need I say it? Practice practice practice. So many hours of dance practice will melt the fat off of any bone, but more than that, it sculpts, shapes, and lifts in all the right places. Moreover, dancers condition with yoga, some light weight lifting, and other dance and art disciplines such as ballet, belly dancing, erotic dance, swing, hustle, ballroom, gymnastics, martial arts, and more. And who can blame them? Dancers must stay on top of their game by utilizing athletic skills from all genres of dance. Their bodies inspire us to dance and remind us to appreciate the hard work that goes into creating a two to three minute routine for your viewing pleasure.

We have so many reasons to love Salsa and fitness keeps us in the fight and watching into the next round. So the next time you see your inspiration and motivation moving and shaking on the dance floor, don’t hesitate to stop and say thank you for the hard work that goes into this precious art form called dance and rhythm we love as Salsa. Our bodies are a living testament to the dedication that goes into keeping Salsa alive and well for generations to come. Because it’s more than just a dance, it’s a lifestyle!

Ashanti Altovese

Ashanti Altovese & Mikko Kemppe - Professional Latin dancers and instructors

Hola Salseros,

Ever wake up in the morning thinking about a salsa dancer that makes you tingle whenever your eyes meet? Just the mere thought of touching this person’s hand gives you a nervous giggle. It could be their smile, or their ever so smooth lead on the dance floor, or it could be their graceful flow through a cross body lead or right turn. Regardless, this person is special to you. They are your motivation to get dressed and go to the club for at least a single dance. The way they walk and talk is mesmerizing. And the dancing is like a ribbon of silk you can’t wait to wrap yourself in. Oh yes, this person is so special to you that it makes you wonder where this energy came from. And you don’t even know their name…

It happens sometimes. You can see the same person every week. Standing by the side watching how they move and interact with the scene. You see courtesy and respect. You see a smile that’s infectious and a stare that’s hypnotizing. You hear a sincere laughter that reflects the genuine person inside. And when you finally ask this person for a dance, it all comes together like a delicious meal that’s ready to be slowly savored. Your eyes meet and you can see the passion of the dance inside. You can feel the rhythm of the music flowing through their every step and movement. For the five minutes you are together on the dance floor, the experience is a romantic and intimate conversation between your two bodies that only be expressed as Salsa. And when the final drum beat plays and the song is over, you reluctantly say thank you for a wonderful dance because you wish you could continue this dance forever. Instead you have to wait patiently for another long week to pass before you can have another intimate conversation on the dance floor with a dancer who makes you quiver with anticipation. If only you knew their name…

Ashanti Altovese

Hola Salseros,

There is a celestial body in our midst that can be described as beautiful, stylish, original, inspiring, breath-taking, experienced, and of course, out of this world. It is none other than the heavenly star of Griselle Ponce, a Puerto-Rican native with roots in modeling and dance since a young age. Born on July 7th, 1979 with the stage in her blood, Griselle has been entertaining audiences with her sexy moves, awesome stage presence, and dazzling smile for the national and international world theater in Latin dancing. Now at age 29, Griselle is at the top of the Salsa Dynasty with admirers all over the world looking for a chance to dance and feel the power of her presence.

Currently partnered with the Mambo King himself, Eddie Torres, Griselle’s star shines brighter than ever and the friendly Bay area dancers of San Francisco were recently able to enjoy their collaboration during the first annual Fabulous All White Salsa Dance Party sponsored by Aguilar Dance Productions and E & E Dance Artistry in San Jose, California. The event was a true success as dancers from all over the Bay enjoyed workshops, performances, and dancing until dawn. There was a rare treat as Griselle and Eddie gave two fun and memorable shows for the city he called a potential future home. Awe, don’t worry East Coast dancers, you can have him for now, but only time will tell when Eddie makes his way to the Golden Gates of San Francisco.

People were bubbling and excited by the melting stare of Griselle’s eyes as she gave herself to the crowd during her two shows. One audience member commented, “She’s so beautiful, it hurts to look at her.” We understand and don’t blame you one bit for being honest. There is something magical in her aura, something intense yet welcoming at the same time. Talent matched with personality and beauty is hard for anyone to swallow but we welcomed the challenge on Sunday, September 27th at the Dance Boulevard studio.

If you’re looking to experience Griselle’s aura and learn from her experience in various dance styles, check out her studio and school, The House of Dance in New Jersey. We hope that Griselle continues to rise and shine as the years pass. Thank you to her dedication to the art of dance and the rhythm of Salsa as she is truly living her dream on the stage. Because, it’s more than just a dance, it’s a lifestyle.

Ashanti Altovese

Dance is entertaining and makes people laugh, cry, sing, and empathize. When different genres of music and language are combined, it can create a magical experience that can only be described as amazing. On Sunday, November 15th, a lucky audience will experience exotic entertainment during a private event in San Jose, California that will feature Latin-Indian pop music vocalist Giju John of Beyond Dreamz Entertainment and professional Salsa dance team Couture Dance Alliance , directed by nine-time Latin dance champion Luis Aguilar.

Giju John is a pioneer in Latin-Indian entertainment and is making waves in the Latin and Indian music and dance scene. With a voice like silk, stunning good looks, and a smooth dance style, Giju is breaking ground with listeners who are new to his flavor of world pop music. More than just an artist, Guji is a professional world-ranked Salsa dancer and choreographer. His latest album features Indian-Salsa, “Rang Rangeeli Yeh Dinya” meaning Colorful Life in Hindi and Indian-Cha-Cha-Cha, “Dhoondun Tujhe” that inspires listeners to get up and dance. Additionally, Beyond Dreamz Entertainment boasts a professional dance team that specializes in Latin-Indian genre dance. View Giju’s music video and experience the exotic entertainment that is Beyond Dreamz.

Later in the evening, the public can enjoy entertainment by Couture Dance Alliance as they will be hosting a pre-congress social at the Glas Kat Lounge in San Francisco for Salsa enthusiasts looking to dance the night away. There will be performances from the Couture dancers as well as other professional dance teams and music from the top DJs in the Bay area. Admission is $12 at the door and street parking is ample. Join the fun, live the life, and feel the fire because it’s more than just a dance, it’s a lifestyle!

Dance is an art that transformed music through the invention of the music video and Michael Jackson is the undisputed icon of the Popular (Pop) music genre. As the world continues to mourn his passing, various cultures celebrate his contributions to music and dance through special dedications with a local twist. Latin dance choreographer and vocalist Seaon Stylist has created a vision of entertainment for the public to commemorate the King of Pop entitled “Rock With You”, A Broadway Latin Style tribute to Michael Jackson. Interested in learning more? Well welcome to The Salsa Socialite©, the lifestyle guide to Salsa food, fashion, and fitness.

Arts & Entertainment Foundation along with Seaon Stylist are presenting two shows of this Latin Broadway showcase; one on Friday, January 22nd, 2010 at 8:00p.m. and another on Saturday, January 23rd, 2010 at 8:00p.m. Patrons will enjoy this show at the luxurious Cowell Theater at Fort Mason in San Francisco. Sponsors include Lady Day Jazz International, Fort Mason Center San Francisco, Lime, and Café Cocomo. This production is part of the In-Performance Series at the Cowell Theater at Fort Mason Center, which is supported by grants for the Arts/San Francisco Hotel Tax Fund, The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, and the Fort Mason Foundation.

Audiences can expect to enjoy a full production with intricate dance performances, Latin rhythms to some of Michael’s most famous songs, and Seaon’s musical influence to the King’s renowned style. Joining the production cast are the elite of Salsa including Luis Aguilar, Sekou McMiller, Santo Rico, Juan Matos, Amanda Estilo, and more. Additionally, there will be Salsa and Mambo workshops available in the afternoon for persons looking to learn the fundamentals of Latin dance. Visit Rock With You Tour for more information on tickets, prices, and VIP seating. Experience the life that is Salsa luxury because it’s more than just a dance, it’s a lifestyle!

Couture Dance Alliance - Professional Salsa Dance Team

Dance is a pleasing form of entertainment and San Francisco hosts several outstanding companies that illustrate grace, allure, and technique. The newest company on the scene is Couture Dance Alliance directed by nine-time international dance champion Luis Aguilar. CDA’s brand of Salsa combines street, ballroom, and precision dance. Never heard of couture dance? We welcome to The Salsa Socialite, the lifestyle guide to Salsa food, fashion, and fitness.

Luis Aguilar, born in Nicaragua, recently moved back to San Francisco from New York city, where he and his partner Anya Katsevman performed and competed. With their sites set on winning the World Salsa Championships to be held in Hollywood, Florida, they train endlessly to perfect their routines that will hopefully win over the judges and audience alike. Meanwhile, Luis directs three teams where his talent and expertise are provided to students on his professional, semi-professional, and training team.

Since CDA’s creation in late spring 2009, they have performed at the New York Salsa Congress, Seattle Salsa Congress, the San Francisco Salsa Congress, and have competed to represent the Bay area at the World Salsa Championships. With such a promising start, local and international salsa enthusiasts are excited to see the next phase of development for this friendly and entertaining team. Check out Couture Dance Alliance as they perform “Mambo La Roka” at the San Francisco Salsa Congress. Get inspired by Salsa dance food, fashion, and fitness. Because it’s more than just a dance, it’s a lifestyle!