Contents Table of Contents...............................................................................................................1 Welcome Message..............................................................................................................2 Performance Schedules..................................................................................................3 Thursday Night Shows...............................................................................................4 Friday Night Shows.....................................................................................................4 Saturday Afternoon Shows.......................................................................................5 Saturday Night Shows................................................................................................5 Sunday Night Competitions.....................................................................................6 Workshop Schedules........................................................................................................7 Friday Workshops.......................................................................................................7 Saturday Workshops...................................................................................................8 Sunday Workshops.....................................................................................................9 Congress Instructors......................................................................................................10 Abel Pena....................................................................................................................10 Alex Salsita & Ivonne Pulido...................................................................................10 Alien Ramirez............................................................................................................11 Ana Saroj....................................................................................................................11 Andres Leiton & Daniela Bohorquez...................................................................12 Andy Cruz & Cristina Rodriguez..........................................................................12 Ava Apple & Rodolfo Guzman...............................................................................13 Burju & Victor Perez................................................................................................13 Corey Raynor & Mireille Ruiz................................................................................14 David Nieto & Charlene Rose...............................................................................14 Emile Carter & Veronika.........................................................................................15 Giana Montoya & Nerry Garcia............................................................................15 Gabriel Romero & Victoria Ruskovoloshina.......................................................16 Grizzly Hidriago........................................................................................................16 Isidro Corona............................................................................................................17 James Cobo & Isabel Freiberger............................................................................17 JC Labio & Tellina Rezzoffi......................................................................................18 John Narvaez & Liz Rojas.......................................................................................18 Luis Aguilar & Anya Katsevman..............................................................................19 Milton Cobo & Erin Leger......................................................................................19 Omar Muñoz & Bianca Champman......................................................................20 Ricardo Tellez & Tianne Frias..................................................................................20 Rodney “Rodchata” Aquino....................................................................................21 Ruben Pardo & Viviana Sierra................................................................................21 Vassili...........................................................................................................................22 Zeke Ruvalcaba & Kathy Reyes.............................................................................22 World Salsa Challenge...................................................................................................23 Musical Guests....................................................................................................................28 Salsa Congress DJs...........................................................................................................29 Salsa Friends........................................................................................................................30
1
Welcome WELCOME to the 11th Annual San Francisco International Salsa Congress! The SF Salsa Congress is one of the largest salsa events in the world, and we have been working hard to bring you an unforgettable salsa experience. We have a very special show for you guys this year, with world renowned musicians such as Alberto “El Canario� & Spanish Harlem Orchestra, international salsa dance instructors, and over 100 dance showcases that will wow and inspire you. This year we are also hosting a series of exciting competitions, including the Salsa Mambo Challenge, the World Salsa Challenge, and the ever-popular Masters Jack & Jill competition. If you are interested in participating in any of our competitions, please speak with our helpful event staff, and they can help get you signed up. It has been a great pleasure to put on this event for over a decade, and this years is looking to be the best year yet. Thank you for participating in the 11th Annual San Francisco International Salsa Congress, and have an amazing weekend! -Ricardo & Michelle Pretty Boys & Girls Dance Productions
2
Performance Schedule Every year the SF Salsa Congress attracts the best dancers from around the world to come on stage and share their talents, and this year is no exception. We’ve prepared a special show for you with a delightful mix of local talent and national and international dancing stars. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this year’s spectacular dance showcase!
THURSDAY, November 15th @ Cafe Cocomo 9:00pm
Cafe Cocomo
Chaca, COL
Keesha & Derek, SF
Esfera Latina, COL
Max & Helen, SF
Fredy & Linda, COL
Salsa Groovin, SF
Isidro & Amanda, SF
Salsa Sin Limite, SF
FRIDAY, November 16th - 8pm Evening Shows 8:00pm
Main Ballroom 1
Alaska Dance Promotions, AK
Latin Bombshells, SF
Ay Que Rico Son, SEA
Mambo Groovin 2, SF
Bachata Evolution, ITA
Michelita & Abraham, SF
D’Vettes, SF
Prodigy Bachata, Fresno
Chicago Latin Street Dancers, CHI
Proyecto Mania, OAK
Colorado Dancesport, CO
Ritmo y Sabor, LA
Drugaya Forma Bachata, Pro, UTAH
Son Montuno, SJ
Johnny Bravo Dance CO 2, LA
Yemaya Pro Ladies, SAC
Keesha & Derek, SJ
Mambo Romero Semi Pro, SF
Las Damas, NY
Burju Fashion Show, BOS/SF/LA/NY
Lady Mambo, OAK
3
FRIDAY, November 16th - 10:30pm Evening Shows 10:30pm
Main Ballroom 1
Cobo Brothers Pachanga, NC
Paso Latino, COL
Con Afinke, SF
Pasion Latina, ORL
Couture Dance Alliance, SF
Ruben & Viviana, COL
Clave y Tumbao, LA
Ritmo y Salsa, LA
Drugaya Semi-Pro, LA
Salsa con Todo, SEA
Giana & Nery, FL
Salsamania Nueva Dimension, OAK
Grizzly Dance CO 2, LA
SalsaSway, UTAH
Mireille & Clayton, SF
Somos el Son, SEA
Mambo Inc, LA
Yemaya SemiPro, SAC
The Latin Symbolics 1, SF
Yukiko & Abraham, LA
SATURDAY, November 17th - 12pm Afternoon Shows 12:00pm
Main Ballroom 1
Beat Dance Company, LA
Latin Vibe, OAK
Drugaya Bachata AM, SLC
Los Suaves, MN
Dynamix, WASH DC
Montuno Amateur, SF
Emotion Aumiri Dance Troup Bachata, SB
Michelita & Rodney, SF
Fusion Latina 2, SAC
Michelle & Adrian, PORT
Javier Campines Bachata, LA
Rumbabeao, SR
Latin Expressions, LA
Salsa Caoba, SR
The Latin Symbolics 2, SF
Yemaya Training Team, SAC
Latin Spice Dance Company, LA
Fusion Latin Girls, SAC
4
SATURDAY, November 17th - 3pm Afternoon Shows 3:00pm
Main Ballroom 1
Beat Dance Company Semipro, LA
Lady Stilo, OAK
Charlene Rose Dance Company, LA
SalsaSubZero, MA
Emotion Aumiri Dance Troup Salsa, SB
Sarah & Jorge, COL
Fusion Latina, SAC
Soco Bachateros, SR
Fusion Latina 2, SAC
Spartan Mambo, SJ
Montuno Protége, SJ
Yemaya Bachata, SAC
Latin Spice Dance Company, LA
Yemaya UC Davis, SAC
SATURDAY, November 17th - 8pm Evening Shows 8:00pm
Main Ballroom 1
Alex & Ivonne, COL
Grizzly & Alien,VEN/CUBA
Revolution Dance, LA
Andy & Cristina, CHI
The Men of CDA, SF
RicaSalsa, SF
Andres & Daniela, COL
Johnny Bravo Dance Co, LA
Mambo Romero, SF
Charlene & David, LA
Juan & Ana, COL
Montuno Dance Co, SJ
Diablo Rojo, COL
Omar & Bianca, LA
Stilo Dance Co, AZ
Drugaya Forma Pro, UT
Prodigy, Fresno
Yemaya Pro, SAC
SATURDAY, November 17th - 10:30pm Evening Shows
5
10:30pm
Main Ballroom 1
Afinkao, SF
Grizzly Dance Co, LA
Ruben & Viviana, COL
Cobo Brothers, NC
Giana & Nery, FL
Salsamania, OAK
Cristina & Alien, LA
Haute Couture, SF
Victor & Burju, BOS
Danny & Milena, COL
John & Andrew, SF
Zeke & Kathy, CHI
Esfera Latina, COL
Luis & Anya, SF/NY
Gabriel & Victoria, SF
Ricardo & Tianne, SF
Saturday night is Gala Night-- dress to impress!
SUNDAY, November 18th - 8pm Evening Shows 8:00pm SALSA/MAMBO CHALLENGE WORLD SALSA CHALLENGE CHAMPIONSHIPS PT.1 Amateur Couples Amateur Teams Junior Couples
SUNDAY, November 18th - 10:30pm Evening Shows 10:30pm WORLD SALSA CHALLENGE CHAMPIONSHIPS PT.2 Professional Rising Stars Pro/Am Couples Professional Teams Professional Couples
Looking for more dancing? Check out the Vancouver International Salsa Festival, coming in March, featuring top salsa musicians & performers. www.salsafestival.ca
6
Workshop Schedule FRIDAY, November 16th, 2012 Time
Room 1 JEWITT
Room 2 JEWITT
Room 3 Golden Gate
Room 4 Main Ballroom
Room 5 California
9:00am
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
10:00am
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
11:00am
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
12:00pm
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
1:00pm
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
Open for Practice
Mambo/Salsa Challenge
2:00pm
EMILE & VERONIKA Kizomba
ABEL PENA Partnering On1
RUBEN & VIVIANA Colombian Style
RICARDO & TIANNE Partnering On2
Mambo/Salsa Challenge
3:00pm
ANDRES LEITON Men’s Footwork
CHARLENE ROSE Ladies Styling
ANDY & CRISTINA Partnering On2
ISIDRO CORONA Partnering On1
Mambo/Salsa Challenge
4:00pm
CLOSED
CLOSED
Tech Rehearsal Evening Shows
CLOSED
Open for Practice
Key: All Levels
Intermediate
Advanced
Masters
Shows/Comp
Workshop schedules are subject to change, see www.sfsalsacongress.com for the latest schedule
7
SATURDAY, November 17th, 2012 Time
Room 1 JEWITT
Room 2 JEWITT
Room 3 Golden Gate
Room 4 Main Room
Room 5 California
Room 6 California
9am
CLOSED
CLOSED
Tech Rehearsals 12pm/3pm Shows
CLOSED
Open for Practice/ Privates
Open for Practice/ Privates
10am
ANA SAROJ Zumba
DAVID & CHARLE NE Partnerin g& Styling Mix On1
Tech Rehearsals 12pm/3pm Shows
AVA APPLE & RODOLFO Lifts & Tricks (Partner Needed)
ZEKE & KATHY Bachata
Open for Practice/ Privates
11am
OMAR & BIANCA Partnering On1
JC & TELLINA Body Isolations
RICARDO & TIANNE Musicality
LUIS & ANYA Partnering On2
ALEX & IVONNE Colombian Style
Open for Practice/ Privates
12pm
ANDRES & DANIELA Fun Partnering
CLOSED
Rising Stars Lunch Show
CLOSED
COBO BROTHERS Intricate Partnering
Mambo/ Salsa Challenge
1pm
EMILE & VERONIKA Kizomba
CLOSED
Rising Stars Lunch Show
CLOSED
GRIZZLY Cha cha with flavor
Mambo/ Salsa Challenge
2pm
GRIZZLY Partnering On2
RODCH ATA Bachata
JAMES COBO & ISABELLE Pachanga Footwork/ Styling
GIANA & NERY Mens Footwork/ Ladies Styling
JOHN & LIZ Footwork/ Partnering
Mambo/ Salsa Challenge
3pm
VASSILI Bachata with Feeling
ABEL PENA Partnerin g On1
Rising Stars Afternoon Show
CLOSED
CLOSED
Open for Practice/ Privates
4pm
CLOSED
CLOSED
Tech Rehearsals
CLOSED
Open for Practice
Open for Practice
Key: All Levels
Intermediate
Advanced
Masters*
Shows/Comp
*Masters classes only for those who purchase the Masters pass
8
SUNDAY, November 18th, 2012 Time
Room 1 JEWITT
Room 2 JEWITT
Room 3 Golden Gate
Room 4 Main Room
Room 5 California
Room 6 California
9am
Open for Practice/ Privates
Open for Practice/ Privates
Competitors Stage Practice Time
Open for Practice/ Privates
Open for Practice/ Privates
Mambo/ Salsa Challenge
10am
GIANA Yoga for Dancers
GABRIEL ROMERO Mambo Partnerwor k
Open for Practice/ Privates
COREY & MIREILLE Bachata
ISIDIRO CORONA Partnering
Mambo/ Salsa Challenge
11am
JOHN & LIZ Footwork/ Partnering
ZEKE & KATHY Bachata
ERIN & ISABELLE Ladies Styling
ALEX & IVONNE Footwork Cali-Style
LUIS & ANYA Partnering On2
Mambo/ Salsa Challenge
12pm
Open for Practice/ Privates
Open for Practice/ Privates
CLOSED
Open Level Jack & Jill Competition
Open for Practice/ Privates
Open for Practice/ Privates
1pm
Open for Practice/ Privates
Open for Practice/ Privates
CLOSED
Open Level Jack & Jill Competition
Open for Practice/ Privates
Open for Practice/ Privates
2pm
ALIEN RAMIREZ Afrocuban
DAVID & CHARLENE Partnering On 1
ESFERA LATINA Lifts & Tricks Techniques (Partner Necessary)
VICTOR & BURJU Footwork/ Partnering On2
ANDY & CRISTINA Footwork/ Ladies Styling
Open for Practice/ Privates
3pm
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
Masters Jack & Jill Competition
CLOSED
Open for Practice/ Privates
4pm
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
Masters Jack & Jill Competition
CLOSED
Open for Practice/ Privates
Key: All Levels
9
Intermediate
Advanced
Masters*
Shows/Comp
*Masters classes only for those who purchase the Masters pass
A BE L P EN A (Los Angeles, USA)
3x World Salsa Champion Mayan World Champion LA-Style/On1 Champion
Abel Pena is one of the top ranked On1 salsa dancers in the world. He, along with his dance partner Zulmara Torres, is a 3-time winner of the World Salsa Championships, as well as other competitions around the world, including the Mayan in LA. Abel has a broad background in dance, including ballroom dancing and tango, and has been dancing since he was 15 years old. He is the director of Ritmo y Salsa dance company in LA and teaches salsa around the world.
X Signature
A L E X SA L SI TA & IVON NE P U LI DO (Bogota, COL)
Directors of Esfera Latina 2011 World Salsa Challenge Champions 2011 Bogota Salsa Congress Champions
Alex Salsita and Ivonne Pulido are two of the topranked Colombian-style salsa dancers in the world. They were the winners of the 2011 World Salsa Challenge and 2011 Bogota Salsa Congress, and placed 2nd place in the 2012 US Salsa Open Championships. Alex & Ivonne are the directors of Esfera Latina Dance Company, which recently won the team division at the World Salsa Championships in Cali, Colombia. They are known for their incredibly fast footwork and jaw dropping acrobatics.
X
X
Signature
Signature
10
A LI EN RAMI REZ (Los Angeles, USA)
Stevens International 2011 Top Female Champion World Latin Dance Cup 2010 Bachata Champion World Latin Dance Cup 2010 & 2011 Cabaret Champion
Alien Ramirez hails from Cuba and has been a dancer her entire life. She has an incredibly diverse dance background and has received classical training in jazz, ballet, contemporary, Afro-Cuban, modern, gymnastics, and flamenco. Alien won her first World Championship in 2005, and has since collaborated with some of the biggest names in the LA salsa scene, including Grizzly Hidriago, with whom she won the 2010 & 2011 World Latin Dance Cup in the Cabaret division.
X Signature
A N A S AROJ (San Francisco, USA)
Zumba Fitness Instructor Pilates Instructor Dance & Yoga Instructor
Ana Saroj is a professional fitness trainer from the San Francisco Bay Area. She has years of experience as a zumba instructor, as well as pilates, ballet, yoga, and dance. If you’re looking for a great workout to get you warmed up in the morning, you can’t go wrong with zumba fitness class from Ana Saroj.
11
X
X
Signature
Signature
A N DR E S LE ITO N & DANIE LA (Bogota, COL)
Principal dancers of Paso Latino Dance Company Exemplars of the of the Colombian-style of salsa Acrobatic tricks and elegant choreography
Andres Leiton & Daniela Bohorquez are the principal dancers of Paso Latino Dance Company in Bogota, Colombia, under the direction of Nicolas Cruz & Caterin Estrada. They have competed in competitions around the world, including the Bogota Salsa Congress, SF Salsa Congress, and the World Championships in Cali. Andres and Daniela are known for their incredible footwork, dramatic lifts, and unique blend of salsa that combines Colombian footwork with traditional On1 turn patterns and partnering.
X
X
Signature
Signature
A N DY CRUZ & C RIS TIN A (Chicago & LA, USA)
Individually recognized salsa superstars Exciting and energetic performance style Seasoned dancers featured in congresses around the world
Andy “Lyrik� Cruz is a songwriter, poet, dancer, choreographer and instructor who has been performing professionally since he was 7 years old. He has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the salsa world, and is a well known presence at salsa festivals the world over. Cristina is a former Italian Salsa Champion, and together with Andy, the two have made an impact on the salsa stage. They are known for their exciting and elegant choreography and fun sense of musical interpretation.
X
X
Signature
Signature
12
AVA APPLE & RODOLFO GUZMAN (San Francisco, USA)
Complex intricate lifts and aerial tricks Have trained many of the top salsa dancers Directors of the Latin Symbolics
Ava Apple and Rodolfo Guzman began their partnership in 2005 and together they direct the Latin Symbolics dance company. Many of today’s top dancers began their story with Ava Apple and her classes, including world champions Junior and Emily Alabi. Ava and Rodolfo are well known for their ability to execute complex and awe-inspiring lifts and tricks, and hold regular lift workshops for dancers looking to take their repertoire to new heights.
X
X
Signature
Signature
B UR J U & V I C TO R PERE Z (Boston, USA)
Top salsa instructors in Boston Directors of Hacha y Machete Dance Company Creator of “Burju Shoes”
Burju and Victor Perez are the founders and directors of Hacha y Machete, Boston’s first professional New York-style “On2” salsa dance company. The company has become well known for its innovative and dynamic choreography, high caliber dancers, and world class instruction and performances. Their reputation has earned them spots at the world’s most prestigious congresses in Italy, Spain, Brazil, France, and more. They have also shared that stage with well known salsa bands including Willie Colon and El Gran Combo.
13
X
X
Signature
Signature
C O R E Y R AY N O R & MI RE ILLE RU IZ (San Francisco, USA)
Top bachata couple in the SF Bay Area Known for fun and playful choreography US Salsa Open Bachata Champions
Corey Raynor and Mireille Ruiz made a name for themselves at the first ever San Francisco International Bachata Festival, and they have since performed at festivals around the world. Corey has a background in ballroom and Brazilian Forro dance and has also been a principal dancer with some of the Bay Area’s top dance companies. Mireille comes from a jazz and gymnastics background, developing a personal style of club salsa and bachata dancing which she has honed through performance and competition.
X
X
Signature
Signature
DAVID NIETO & CHARLENE ROSE (San Francisco, USA)
Mayan Salsa Champions 2008 Exemplar performers in the LA Style Sought after teachers and chroreographers
David Nieto and Charlene Rose are well known dancers and choreographers in the LA style who have been featured at salsa festivals around the world. David is a top 3 finalist in the World Salsa Championships and has been a featured dancer in multiple Hollywood films, while Charlene was a semi-finalist on FOX’s So You Think You Can Dance, and has choreographed for Dancing With The Stars. Together they are the champions of the acclaimed 2008 Mayan competition, and continue to wow audiences with their jaw-dropping style.
X
X
Signature
Signature
14
EM I L E C A RT E R & VE RO NI KA (Los Angeles, USA)
Kizomba dance pioneers
Emile Carter and Veronika are top kizomba instructors and performers from the SF Bay Area. Kizomba is a style of music and dance which originated in the late 1980’s in Angola, and has grown incredibly in popularity in recent years. It is a fusion of Semba, Tango, and Zouk and is an extremely sensuous and romantic dance. Emile and Veronika exemplify the sensuality of kizomba, and are pioneers in teaching and sharing the dance in the Bay Area.
X
X
Signature
Signature
G I A N A M O N TOYA & N E RY G A R C I A (Fort Myers, FL)
Directors of Elegant Rumba Dance Company Expert On1 salsa instructors Known for passionate, flamboyant style
Nery Garcia and Giana Montoya are the directors of Florida’s Elegant Rumba Dance Company. The two are highly sought after instructors, performers, and choreographers who have been featured at Salsa Festivals around the country. Nery and Giana combine classic and always exciting LA-style salsa with an unapologetic flair of romance and artistry. The result is a truly unique experience that is every bit as flamboyant as it is intimate.
15
X
X
Signature
Signature
G A B R I E L RO M E RO & V I C TO R I A (San Francisco, USA)
Popularized New York style salsa in the Bay Area Known for their elegant style and musicality Over 15 years of teaching experience
Gabriel and Victoria are the directors of San Francisco based Mambo Romero dance company. The pair are known as exemplars of the New York on2 style and are credited with bringing mambo to the San Francisco Bay. Their routines continue to innovate year after year, featuring unmatched musicality and elegance Gabriel and Victoria are very well respected as teachers and advocates of mambo and dance in general. Gabriel is known for bringing a fresh approach to classic mambo steps, while Victoria is unparalleled in her styling.
X
X
Signature
Signature
G R I Z Z LY H I D R I AG O (Los Angeles, USA)
World Latin Dance Cup 2010 & 2011 Cabaret Champion Unique fusion of Latin Jazz and various salsa styles Explosive tricks and innovative choreography
Grizzly Hidriago is a latin jazz and cabaret specialist. Originally from Caracas,Venezuela, Grizzly has been dancing from a young age and is trained in virtually every style of dance from Ballet to the Cabaret and Theatre Arts. He has made a name for himself in the salsa world with two championship titles in the cabaret division of the World Latin Dance Cup. Grizzly is known for his amazing tricks and creative choreography, and he is the director of Grizzly Dance Company based in LA, which has won a number of competitive salsa titles.
X Signature
16
I SI DRO CO RO NA (San Jose, USA)
Director of Montuno Dance Company US Salsa Open Professional On1 Champion Multiple World Salsa Championships Finalist
Isidro Corona is known for his intricate turn patterns and energetic salsa dance style On1. He is a US Salsa Open Professional Champion and a multiple-time World Salsa Championship finalist. Isidro is the founder and director of South Bay’s Montuno Dance Company which represents his signature hard-hitting style and has won multiple titles at the US Salsa Open Championships. A seasoned international performer accustomed to the big stage, Isidro performs and competes all over the the Bay Area.
X Signature
J A M E S CO BO & IS ABE L (Raleigh, NC)
Intricate partner work and exciting tricks Crowd pleasing routines and musicality Famed social dancers and performers
James Cobo and Isabel Freigberger are principal dancers of North Carolina’s famed Cobo Brothers Dance Company. They are known for intricate partnerwork, exciting tricks, and entertaining shows. These principal members of the dance company are also known for their unparalleled skill at social dancing and musical interpretation. Their workshops often times consist of club friendly material with an emphasis on true dancing as opposed to execution.
17
X
X
Signature
Signature
J C L A B IO & T E LLI NA RE ZZO F F I (San Francisco, USA)
Experts in Afro-Cuban body movement Directors of Afinkao Dance Company Top Bay Area salsa instructors
JC Labio and Tellina Rezzoffi are the director’s of the East Bay’s Afinkao Dance Company. They are known for their original and creative choreography with heavy influences of Afro-Cuban movements, jazz, and fluid body motion. Together the husband-and-wife pair have performed at events nationally and around the world, and host one of the Bay Area’s premiere monthly salsa socials at The Beat in Berkeley, home to the annual Bay Area footwork competition.
X
X
Signature
Signature
J O H N N A RVA EZ & LIZ ROJ AS (San Francisco, USA)
2011 World Latin Dance Cup Team Champions 3-Time US Salsa Open Top Instructor Award Experts in complex turn patterns and technique On2
John Narvaez and Liz Rojas are the directors of the award-winning Salsamania Dance Company, which is the largest salsa dance company in the Bay Area and the winners of the 2011 World Latin Dance Cup. John & Liz are known for their crisp & clean technique On2, playful routines, and fast footwork. Together they have competed and placed in top-level salsa competitions, including the World Salsa Championships, US Salsa Open, and World Latin Dance Cup. John has been recognized 3 times as the top instructor at the US Salsa Open, and travels and teaches around the world.
X
X
Signature
Signature
18
L U I S AG U I L A R & A N YA K AT S E V M A N (San Francisco & New York, USA)
Two-Time World Salsa Champions Two-Time San Francisco Salsa Congress Champions Two-Time New York Salsa Congress Champions
Luis Aguilar and Anya Katsevman are two of the top On2 salsa dancers in the world, having won the World Salsa Champions 2 years in a row in the On2 division. Luis and Anya have years of ballroom dance training, and together they have a unique style of salsa that is recognized the world over for its technique, timing and precision. Luis is also the director of the Couture Dance Alliance, a dance company based in San Francisco that was the winner of the inaugural World Salsa Challenge as well multiple divisions at the US Salsa Open Championships.
X
X
Signature
Signature
MILTON COBO & ERIN LEGER (Raleigh, NC)
SF Salsa Congress Masters Jack & Jill Champion Principal dancers of Cobo Brothers Dance Company Intricate partnerwork and complex tricks
Milton Cobo and Erin Leger hail from North Carolina and are principal dancers for the acclaimed Cobo Brothers Dance Company (along with Milton’s brother James). The dance company is known for intricate partnerwork, exciting tricks, and smooth social dance prowess. Milton and Erin have performed and taught at salsa events around the world. In addition to his performances, Milton is well known for his social dancing, and is a past winner of the Masters Jack & Jill Competition at the SF Salsa Congress.
19
X
X
Signature
Signature
OMAR MUÑOZ & BIANCA (Los Angeles, USA)
Principal dancers of Alma Latina Dance Company Complex turn patterns Known for their speed & precision
Omar Muñoz and Bianca Chapman are principal dancers and instructors in Mexico’s premier dance company, Alma Latina. Together, they have competed and performed at some of the biggest venues in the world including the ESPN World Salsa Championships and World Latin Dance Cup. Omar and Bianca are known for their complex and precise turn patterns, blazing speed, and spinning technique.
X
X
Signature
Signature
R IC A R D O T EL L EZ & TI ANNE F RIA S (San Francisco, USA)
Two-Time World Salsa Championships Finalists Co-Directors of RicaSalsa Dance Company Creators of the “On5” dancing style
Ricardo and Tianne are world renown salsa dancers and instructors from the SF Bay Area. They have performed and competed around the world, and are two-time finalists at the World Salsa Championships. Ricardo has been teaching salsa for over 13 years and is the creator of the On5 dancing style. Tianne has a background in ballet, modern, tango, and ballroom dancing, and has over 2 decades of dance experience. Together they are the co-directors of RicaSalsa dance company, winners of the 2010 World Latin Dance Cup.
X Signature
X Signature
20
RODNEY “RODCHATA” AQUINO (San Francisco, USA)
Internationally recognized bachata instructor Organizer of the San Francisco Bachata Festival Organizer of the Reno Bachata Convention
Rodney Aquino, aka “Rodchata”, is one of the top bachata instructors and promoters in the US. He is the organizer of the Reno Bachata Convention and SF Bachata Festival, and co-organizes half-a-dozen other major bachata events throughout the year. Rodney has a broad background in Latin dance, including international ballroom, salsa, cumbia, chachacha, merrengue, and bachata. He has taught bachata around the world including Europe, Asia, Australia, and the US. Rodney is also certified personal fitness trainer and karate black belt.
X Signature
RU B E N PA R D O & V I V I A N A S I E R R A (Bogota, COL)
Exemplars of the Colombian salsa style Winners of the 2012 Bogota Salsa Congress Principal dancers of Salsabogo Dance Company
Ruben Pardo and Viviana Sierra are members of Salsabogo Dance Company and make their debut at the San Francisco Salsa Congress by way of Bogota, Colombia. Together, they are the newly crowned champions of the Bogota Salsa Congress in the Professional Couples division. Ruben and Viviana are experts of the “Cali-style” salsa, and are known for combining rapid footwork with dramatic lifts and tricks.
21
X
X
Signature
Signature
VASSILI (Seattle, USA)
2-Time Reno Dance Sensation Champion Head instructor of Salsa Con Todo Professional Musician
Vassili is a musician, dancer, and dance instructor from Seattle, Washington. He took his first salsa in 2000, and has since gone on to win the “Reno Dance Sensation� competition 2 years in a row. Vassili is one of the head instructors at Salsa Con Todo in Seattle, and his background in music gives him a deep understanding of rhythm, timing and musicality, which he incorporates into his performances and teaching.
X Signature
ZE K E & KATHY (Chicago, USA)
2010 World Latin Dance Cup Finalists National Bachata Champions Known for their passionate & sensual styling
Zeke Ruvalcaba and Kathy Reyes are top-level bachata dancers who are known for their passionate and tender bachata performances. Zeke is the founder of Bachata All-Stars, the first bachata dance team in the Mid-West, and Kathy is an experienced performer with over 5 years of dance experience. Together, Zeke and Kathy have taken the bachata world by storm, winning numerous bachata competitions across the country, including a 2nd place finish at the 2010 World Latin Dance Cup.
X
X
Signature
Signature
22
World Salsa Challenge The World Salsa Challenge is a salsa competition that brings together the best dancers from around the world to compete for the title of SF Congress Champion. The competitors will be judged on the following 5 criteria: 1. Timing (10 points) 2. Technique (10 points) 3. Connection (10 points) 4. Choreography (10 points) 5. Showmanship (10 points) This year’s competition features top level dancers from the Bay Area, LA, Colombia, and beyond. Here’s a look at some of the dancers that will be competing in the 2012 World Salsa Challenge:
Professional Couples: Alex Salsita & Ivonne Pulido Representing: Bogota, Colombia Biography: Alex and Ivonne are the current reigning champions of the World Salsa Challenge. In 2011 they defeated the current On2 World Champions David & Paulina, and 3-time On1 Champions Abel & Zulmara to win their title. Alex and Ivonne have been competing around the world since then, winning titles at the World Championships in Cali, the Bogota Salsa Congress, and the US Salsa Open Championships. As two of the top dancers in the Colombian-style of salsa, expect to see a high intensity routine with blinding footwork and dazzling acrobatics.
23
Grizzly Hidriago & Alien Ramirez Representing: Los Angeles, USA Grizzly and Alien are two-time World Latin Dance Cup Champions in the Cabaret (tricks) division. They are known not only for their acrobatics, but for their smooth and elegant technique. With their excellent timing and technique, expect them to give the Colombians some stiff competition.
Ruben Pardo & Viviana Sierra Representing: Bogota, Colombia Ruben and Viviana are two up-and-coming salsa competitors from Bogota, Colombia. In August, they stunned the crowd at the Bogota Salsa Congress by winning the Professional Couples Division over the favorites, Alex & Ivonne. Now they are competing at the SF Salsa Congress for the first time, and looking to repeat their victory performance.
Andres Leiton & Daniela Bohorquez Representing: Bogota, Colombia Andres and Daniela are talented salsa competitors out of Bogota, Colombia and the principal dancers of Paso Latino Dance Company. The couple is known for combining Colombian-style footwork & tricks with elegant choreography. Their unique blend of salsa styles makes this couple the dark horse of the division. Andres & Daniela are also the officially sponsored couple of Salsa By The Bay.
24
Pro Rising Stars (Semi-Pro): Max Shpungin & Helen Vazquez Representing: San Jose, USA Max and Helen began their partnership as coaches of Spartan Mambo and started competing together at the 2012 Las Vegas Salsa Congress. The two have since won numerous titles, including the US Salsa Open Championships. They are skilled On2 dancers who incorporate intricate turn patterns, ballroom styling, and precise footwork to create a unique style of salsa. Achuith Bhandarkar & Mayuko Bueno Representing: San Francisco, USA Achuith & Mayuko (codename “Achuko�) are a salsa couple that have been dancing together since 2005. Both are principal dancers in top Bay Area dance companies-- Achuith dances for the Couture Dance Alliance, and Mayuko is on the Salsamania Pro Team. Together they are a formidable pair that combines complex On2 turn patterns with flawless tricks and lifts.
Derek Marrero & Keesha Roberts Representing: San Jose, Colombia Derek and Keesha are salsa competitors from the South Bay representing the On1 dancing style. Keesha has a classical background in ballet, jazz, and tap, while Derek is a former football player. Together they make an exciting couple known for their effortless lifts & tricks, complex turns, and athletic poses. Expect to see an energetic routine that pushes the level of difficulty in the division.
25
Jorge Palacios & Sarah Tadlaoui Representing: Bogota, COL Jorge and Sarah are an explosive couple from Bogota, Colombia, competing at the SF Salsa Congress for the first time. Jorge has years of experience in Colombian-style salsa, and Sarah has a background in gymnastics, ballet, and jazz. With their combination of fast footwork, big lifts, and classical technique, this couple has their eyes set on taking home the Pro Rising Star title for Colombia.
Professional Teams:
Couture Dance Alliance The Couture Dance Alliance is one of the top ranked salsa teams in the SF Bay Area. Directed by 2-time On2 World Salsa Champion Luis Aguilar, CDA has won the San Francisco Salsa Congress Pro Team competition 2-years in a row, and have won the pro teams division of the US Salsa Open Championships 3 years in a row, among other accolades. CDA combines ballroom technique, precise movement, and synchronization to create a winning combination that’s hard to beat. Expect CDA to score highly across the judging criteria of timing, technique, connection, choreography, and showmanship.
26
Esfera Latina Hailing from Bogota, Colombia, Esfera Latina is one of Colombia’s top competitive salsa teams. The team took 2nd place in last year’s World Salsa Challenge, behind the Couture Dance Alliance, and has since placed at many national and international salsa competitions. Most recently, Esfera Latina took 1st place at the Salsa World Championships in Cali, Colombia, the first team from outside of Cali to do so in the history of the competition. Now the team is back in the Bay Area, and looking to win the title that so narrowly eluded them the year before.
Amateur Teams:
Spartan Mambo Spartan Mambo is the college salsa team of San Jose State University. They are two-time College Salsa Congress finalists, and were the College Salsa Champions in 2011. They have also placed third in the amateur team category at the SF Salsa Congress and at the inaugural World Salsa Challenge Championships. Many of the team’s members are completely new to salsa, so cheer extra loud for them!
27
Musical Guests FRIDAY, November 17th, 2012 Jose Alberto “El Canario” José Alberto is a legendary Dominican salsa singer who has enjoyed great success in the United States, Europe, and Latin America. His voice is widely adored by his fans, and his exceptional whistling abilities (being able to improvise as if he was playing a traverse flute) led them to give him the nickname “El Canario” (The Canary).
SATURDAY, November 18th, 2012
Grammy Award Winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra
Also featuring:
28
Salsa Congress DJs Your musical hosts for the evening! The SF Bay Area is lucky to have some of the best salsa & mambo DJs in the world and this year’s Congress features an All-Bay Area salsa DJ line-up, spinning the best salsa music all night, every night until 4am in the morning. Happy dancing and remember to thank your DJs for their hard work!
DJ Hong (Hong Kwon) SF Bay Area
DJ Jazzy Jez (Jesse Giovanni) SF Bay Area
DJ El Guapo (Jeison Aguilar) SF Bay Area
DJ Mundo (Edmundo Martinez) SF Bay Area
DJ Super Chino (Jairo Aguilar) SF Bay Area
DJ BoriQua (Orlando Felix) SF Bay Area/Dubai
DJ EldelaClave (Felipe Martinez) SF Bay Area
29
Salsa Friends
Collect signatures from all the great people you meet during Congress!
30
2012 SF Salsa Congress Performers Afinkao Alaska Dance Promotions Alex & Ivonne Andres & Daniela Andy & Cristina Ay Que Rico Son Bachata Evolution Beat Dance Company Chaca Charlene Rose Dance Company Chicago Latin Street Dancers Clave y Tumbao Cobo Brothers Colorado Dancesport Con Afinke Couture Dance Alliance Cristina & Alien D'Vettes Danny & Milena Diablo Rojo Drugaya Forma Dynamix Emotion Aumiri Dance Troup Esfera Latina Fredy & Linda Fusion Latina Gabriel & Victoria Giana & Nery Grizzly Dance Company Haute Couture Isidro & Amanda Javier Campines Bachata John & Andrew Johnny Bravo Dance Company Juan & Ana Keesha & Derek Lady Mambo Lady Stilo Las Damas Latin Bombshells Latin Expressions Latin Spice Dance Company
Sponsored by:
Latin Vibe Los Suaves Luis & Anya Mambo Groovin Mambo Inc Mambo Romero Max & Helen Michelita & Abraham Michelle & Adrian Mireille & Clayton Montuno Dance Company Nueva Dimension Omar & Bianca Pasion Latina Paso Latino Prodigy Proyecto Mania Revolution Dance Ricardo & Tianne RicaSalsa Ritmo y Sabor Ritmo y Salsa Ruben & Viviana Rumbabeao Salsa Caoba Salsa con Todo Salsa Groovin Salsa Sin Limite Salsamania SalsaSubZero SalsaSway Sarah & Jorge Soco Bachateros Somos el Son Son Montuno Spartan Mambo Stilo Dance Co The Latin Symbolics Victor & Burju Yemaya Yukiko & Abraham Zeke & Kathy