Salsa Suelta • Casino Partnering • Rueda de Casino
Cuban and Afro-Cuban Dance Workshops
No partner needed • Hablamos Espanol

Announcements

Mini-series for intermediate dancers

Join us for a 3-week mini series in Cuban-style Salsa
Starting March 15 to March 29
Wednesdays 6:30pm to 7:45pm
Intermediate partner dance class. Cools moves, great Cuban music!
The mini-series is building up every week. Attendance to all classes is recommended but drop-ins are welcome.
London Nelson Community Center
301 Center Street
Downtown Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Please note:
1. Bring proof of vaccination.
2. Wear a well-fitting mask at all times.
3. Bring a partner to ensure you have someone to dance with.
    If you don’t have a partner, some students will rotate and share partners.

Maximum 16 students.
Series pre-registered by March 13: $36 regular, students* $18.
Door: $40, students 18.
Drop-in: $15 per person, $6 for full time students.
Please, have exact change. No coins.
* full-time students.

Drop-in class for intermediate dancers

Wednesday February 1, 2023 at 6:30pm
Intermediate partner dance class.
Starting with Salsa Suelta, followed by Casino partner dancing.
London Nelson Community Center
301 Center Street
Downtown Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Please note:
1. Bring proof of vaccination.
2. Wear a well-fitting mask at all times.
3. Bring a partner to ensure you have someone to dance with.
    If you don’t have a partner, some students will rotate and share partners.

Fee: $13 drop-in per person, $6 for full time students, two for $25.
Please, have exact change. No coins.
The class is not on a weekly basis yet.  

Free Zoom classes in Salsa Suelta ended after 84 free sessions

After 84 free Zoom session in Salsa Suelta, we stop offering this class and offer it only on demand. Contact us if you are interested.

Photo: Jessica with Maceo, Santiago de Cuba, July 2013

The sessions are not an intro/beginner class in Salsa.  Experience in basic Salsa is recommended. 
Suelta = released, i.e dancing without a partner. So, it’s a chance to practice footwork and rhythms even if you don’t live with a dance partner. The dance patterns may include Cuban styles such as Mambo, ChaChaCha, Afro-Cuban Rumba, Son Montuno, Orisha, and what many refer to as “Cuban Salsa”.
Please, contact us to get an invitation via email and all you need is to click on the link.
Contact us: https://www.salsagente.com/contact-us/  

Cuban Son Session with Chae Reid

Join us for a virtual (Zoom) dance session in Cuban Son!

Do you love Cuban Son music? Would you like to learn traditional Son dancing?
Then don’t miss this opportunity!
We are happy to host Chae Reid as a guest teacher.
Click here to see her bio.
Learn to dance to the Son clave with traditional footwork and some nice dance patterns.
The session is ideal for people who have a dance partner, but solo dancers may attend.
This is not a beginner dance class.  Experience in Salsa is recommended. 
Saturday, June 19, 2021 at 5pm to about 6:15pm
Cost: $10 per person. 
Need to pre-register and pre-pay by June 17. Contact us!.  

Rueda de Casino Series for Beginners Level 2 and up

This is a 6-week series Beginner Level 2* and up.
Class delayed until further notice!
Thursdays from 8:10 to 9:10 pm.
No partner required. Age 16+. Min 6, max 18 dancers. 
$55 for series/$30 full-time students, drop-in $10.
Location: Tiny Dancer Ballet studio, inside Santa Cruz Arts Center, 1001 Center Street, downtown Santa Cruz.
Drop-ins welcome but need to know the basics in Rueda*.
*Beginner level 2: know the basic steps and turns, as well as dame, enchufla (doble), el uno, setenta, and sombrero.
FB event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/493747451292607/
This is not a Parks & Rec class: contact Chris & Jessica to register..

The Premier Cuban Music & Dance Festival at the West Coast

Salsa Vale Todo presents the 12th Annual San Francisco Salsa Rueda Festival

Thursday Feb 13 to Sunday Feb 16, 2020
Enjoy four days of social dancing, world-class performances and shows, music from acclaimed bands and DJs, workshops and classes for all dance levels with top instructors, a beginner bootcamp, educational lectures and late night parties in the heart of one of the greatest cities in the world.
Enjoy all or just some workshops from beginner level and up, and enjoy stunning performances every evening with lots of dancing afterwards!

60 workshops and classes for all dance levels in Rueda, Salsa, Casino, Folklore, Rumba, Son and more. Learn real social dance skills from the best Cuban Salsa instructors in the world. Party until the wee hours of the morning with the largest community of Cuban Salsa lovers on the West Coast.

Legendary live band such as: Elito Reve y su charangon
Legendary DJs such as: DJ Walt Digz, DJ Dark Rum, DJ El Gato Volador, DJ Juanlove, DJ Pepe Timba, DJ Alan.
Superstar instructors such as: Yeni Molinet, Roberto Borrell, Barbara Jimenez, Duane Wrenn, Royland Lobato, Kati Hernandez, Denmis Bain Savigne,  Yeniel ‘Chini” Perez Domenech, Nicholas van Eyck and Serena Wong, Hansel Melgares ,  Yeni Lucero,  Andros Alfonso Travieso, Yismari Ramos Tellez, Chris Rogicki and Evelyn Ramirez,  and more.

www.SalsaRuedaFestival.com

https://www.salsaruedafestival.com/tickets

FB: https://www.facebook.com/salsaruedafestival/

Popular Salsa CRASH Course Cuban-style for Beginners

Starts Wednesday, January 22. 2020.
Registration starts January 13!
7-week series class: Wednesdays Jan 22, 2020 to Mar 4, 2020.
From 7pm to 8:15pm
No partner required. Age 16+, Limited space (max 22).

This popular crash course offers everyone who wants to learn Salsa partner dancing with a more relaxed but sizzling Cuban flavor. Learn to dance Salsa with easy and cool looking partners moves. Towards the end of the seven week course we will also introduce Rueda de Casino.
Meet people, have fun and get a workout as your skilled teachers keep you moving in a friendly and non-intimidating atmosphere.
Cost $70 (if you live within Santa Cruz)/$85 (if you don’t live withing Santa Cruz city limits).
Location: Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center Street, downtown Santa Cruz
Need to pre-register at City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation.
Registration starts January 13!
Look out for Parks & Rec catalog. 
Class number: 111401
www.santacruzparksandrec.com/register
More registration information here:
https://www.salsagente.com/cuban-style-salsa-classes-location-fees/#register
FB event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/824142384768857/
Contact us if you have questions

Class in Fall 2019

Above: Photo of our beginner class in fall 2019.

Cuban Dance Workshop with Cheo and Royland

Treat yourself to a rare opportunity in Santa Cruz, California, featuring Jose “Cheo” Rojas and Royland Lobato.

Afro-Cuban: 3pm, all levels
Salsa Cubana: 4:30pm, experienced* beginners and up
Location: Large studio downstairs at Motion Pacific Dance Studio
Both Jose “Cheo” Rojas and Royland Lobato are celebrated master teachers visiting from San Francisco area. One class is $20, both classes $30.
See their bio here: https://www.salsagente.com/cuban-dance-workshop/
https://www.facebook.com/events/2330518777220824/
The Salsa  Cubana workshop will include Casino partner dancing and possibly some Rueda de Casino. Experienced beginners know all the basics plus El uno, Setenta and Sombrero.

Salsa Rueda de Casino 5-week Intro/Beginner Series

Class offered through the City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation.
5-week series class: Wednesdays, April 10, 2019 to May 8, 2019. From 7 pm to 8:15 pm.
No partner required. Age 16+. Minimum 8 people.  Limited space.
Cuban Rueda de Casino offers a fun alternative way to learn salsa. This wildly popular type of salsa dancing is done by a group in a circle (Rueda), with partners being passed around. Partner and group moves can be called in quick succession. Come join the wonderful and energetic community of Rueda dancers around the world.
Cost $50 (if you live within Santa Cruz)/$62 (if you don’t live within Santa Cruz city limits).
Location: Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center Street, downtown Santa Cruz
Need to pre-register at City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation.
Class number: 111 402
www.santacruzparksandrec.com/register
More registration information here:
https://www.salsagente.com/cuban-style-salsa-classes-location-fees/#register

FB event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/348035412499661/

Class in Spring 2019

Above: Photo of our beginner class in early 2019. We had a lot of fun!

The Largest Cuban Music & Dance Festival at the West Coast

Salsa Vale Todo presents the 11th Annual San Francisco Salsa Rueda Festival

Enjoy four days of social dancing, world-class performances and shows, music from acclaimed bands and DJs, workshops and classes for all dance levels with top instructors, a beginner bootcamp, educational lectures and late night parties in the heart of one of the greatest cities in the world.

60 workshops and classes for all dance levels in Rueda, Salsa, Casino, Folklore, Rumba, Son and more. Learn real social dance skills from the best Cuban Salsa instructors in the world. Party until the wee hours of the morning with the largest community of Cuban Salsa lovers on the West Coast.

Legendary live bands and DJs such as: El Niño y la Verdad, DJ Walt Digz.
Superstar instructors such as (from 2018): Yeni Molinet, Roberto Borrell, Susana Arenas Pedroso, Duane Wrenn, Royland Lobato, Kati Hernandez, Denmis Bain Savigne, Nicholas van Eyck and Serena Wong, Hansel Melgares , Temistocles “Temi” Fuentes Betancourt, Ramón Ramos Alayo, and more.

www.SalsaRuedaFestival.com

https://www.salsaruedafestival.com/tickets

FB: https://www.facebook.com/salsaruedafestival/

Salsa CRASH Course Cuban-style for Beginners starts Jan 23

7-week series class for all dancers, wanna-be dancers and dancers at heart.
Learn to dance easy and cool-looking moves.
SORRY: CLASS IS FULL! Waiting List!

Wednesdays, Jan 23, 2019 to Mar 6, 2019. From 7pm to 8:15pm
No partner required. Age 16+.  Limited space.
This popular crash course offers everyone who wants to learn to dance Salsa a more relaxed but sizzling Cuban flavor. Learn to dance Salsa with easy and cool looking partner moves. Towards the end of the seven week course we will also introduce Rueda de Casino. Meet people, have fun and get a workout as your skilled teachers keep you moving in a friendly and non-intimidating atmosphere.
Cost $70 (if you live within Santa Cruz)/$84 (if you don’t live within Santa Cruz city limits).
Location: Louden Nelson Center
301 Center Street, downtown Santa Cruz
Need to pre-register at City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation.
Class number: 111 401
www.santacruzparksandrec.com/register
FB event: https://www.facebook.com/events/378880206232899/

Dance Workshop with Salsa Vale Todo

The organizers of the largest Cuban music & dance festival at the West Cost are coming to Santa Cruz. Nick and Serena from Salsa Vale Todo in San Francisco will give two workshops.
Saturday, Dec 8, 2018
2pm      Casino Partner & Styling
3:30pm Rueda de Casino
Each class is about 60 to 75 minutes.  Age 16+, max 18 people. No partner required. Cost $15 each (cash only).
There is no sign-up for this workshop, all is drop-in at the door.
https://www.facebook.com/events/657549724639929/
Location: Tiny Dancer Ballet Dance studio
1001 Center Street
downtown Santa Cruz
http://tinydancerballet.com/

Class in Fall 2018

Above: Photo of our beginner class in fall 2018. What a wonderful group!

Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Starts Sept 19, 2018 

This is a 7-week series class: Wednesdays, Sept 19 to Nov 7, 2018. From 7pm to 8:15pm.  No class Oct 31.
No partner required. Age 16+. Limited space.
Sorry: CLASS IS FULL!
This popular crash course offers everyone who wants to learn to dance Salsa a more relaxed but sizzling Cuban flavor. Learn to dance partner dancing with easy and cool looking moves. Towards the end of the seven week course we will also introduce Rueda de Casino.
Meet people, have fun and get a workout as your skilled teachers keep you moving in a friendly and non-intimidating atmosphere.
Class offered through the City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation.
Cost $70 (city of Santa Cruz residents)/$84 (non-city of Santa Cruz residents living outside Santa Cruz).
Age 16+. No partner is required. Maximum 30 people.
Need to pre-register at City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation.
Registration open August 6, 2018. Look out for catalog or go online.
Sorry: CLASS IS FULL!
Class number: 311 401
www.santacruzparksandrec.com/register
More registration information here:
https://www.salsagente.com/cuban-style-salsa-classes-location-fees/#register
https://www.facebook.com/events/1844779452280205/

Shake the Square at Abbott Square Aug 2, 2018: Free Event

Free event downtown Santa Cruz on August 2 from 6pm to 7:30pm.
Shake the Square at Abbott Square with Chris & Jessica from Salsa Gente.
The event invites dance aficionados of any level and promotes the upcoming Salsa Crash Cuban-style for Beginners offered through the City of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec which begins Sept 19, 2018. No partner required.
https://www.facebook.com/events/368341350366649/

Cuban Dance Workshop with Denmis Bain Savigne

Workshop in Afro-Cuban Dance and Salsa Cuban styling.
Saturday, May 19, 2019
Motion Pacific Dance Studio
downtown Santa Cruz, CA
More here: https://www.salsagente.com/denmis-bain-savigne/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/2067678306810960/

Class in February 2018

Photo of one of our classes in February 2018. We love dancing with these wonderful people and are always impressed by the enthusiasm and spirit everyone brings to the dancing floor. This makes our day!

The Largest Cuban Music & Dance Festival at the West Coast

Salsa Vale Todo presents the 10th Annual San Francisco Salsa Rueda Festival

Enjoy four days of social dancing, world-class performances and shows, music from acclaimed bands and DJs, workshops and classes for all dance levels with top instructors, a beginner bootcamp, educational lectures and late night parties in the heart of one of the greatest cities in the world.

60 workshops and classes for all dance levels in Rueda, Salsa, Casino, Folklore, Rumba, Son and more. Learn real social dance skills from the best Cuban Salsa instructors in the world. Party until the wee hours of the morning with the largest community of Cuban Salsa lovers on the West Coast.

Legendary live bands and DJs such as: Timbalive, Yenisel “Yeni Valdes, Bay area All-Stars, DJ Walt Digz.
Superstar instructors such as: Yeni Molinet, Roberto Borrell, Susana Arenas Pedroso, Duane Wrenn, Royland Lobato, Kati Hernandez, Denmis Bain Savigne, Nicholas van Eyck and Serena Wong, Hansel Melgares , Temistocles “Temi” Fuentes Betancourt, Ramón Ramos Alayo, and more.

FB: https://www.facebook.com/salsaruedafestival/

Salsa CRASH Course Cuban-style for Beginners

Popular Salsa Crash Courses Intro Level

For Beginners: level 1 & 2
No partner required!
Each 4 Wed from 7-8:15pm
Level 1: Jan 24 – Feb 14, 2018
Level 2: Feb 21 – Mar 21, 2018 (no class March 14)
Level 1 class IS FULL! Register now for Level 2!
Get into the spirit of sunshine of Caribbean dance and music.  Two courses:
Level I (beginners) is for anyone who wants to learn to dance partner Salsa, with easy and cool looking partner moves.
Level 2 is for anyone who wants to build up salsa skills or has completed level 1. This is also an introduction to Cuban Rueda de Casino.
$60 (city residents)/$72 (non-city residents). Age 16+, Maximum 18 people.
Offered through city of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec. Need to pre-register!
Level 1 class IS FULL! Register now for Level 2!
Registration is opens January 4, 2018.
Class number 111 401
www.santacruzparksandrec.com/register
More registration information here:
https://www.salsagente.com/cuban-style-salsa-classes-location-fees/#register
FB Level 1: https://www.facebook.com/events/1995253250763292/
FB Level 2: https://www.facebook.com/events/408096459619535/

Free Salsa Lessons at Open House

Louden Nelson Center Hosting Open House

We are excited to give two free Salsa lessons at the Open House at Louden Nelson Center.
Sunday, Jan 7, 2018
First set about 2:30pm to 3m
Second set about 3:30pm to 4pm
No partner required.
FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/192384157980769/

Thursday class in December 2017

Last class of 2017! Wishing all of you safe and happy Holidays!

Partner Dancing for intermediate dancers

Salsa Cubana drop-in class

Every Thursday at 7pm.
Featuring Salsa Suelta and Casino partner dancing. Lates tunes from Cuba.
For all intermediate Salsa dancers. No partner required. Age 16+.

Beginner Class in October 2017

Wonderful time with our students of the beginner class on Wednesday in October 2017

Salsa CRASH Course Cuban-style for Beginners

Popular Salsa Crash Courses Intro Level

CLASS IS FULL

For Beginners: level 1 & 2
No partner required!
Each 4 Wed from 7-8:15pm
Level 1: Sept 13 – Oct 4, 2017
Level 2: Oct 11 – Nov 1, 2017
Don’t miss this popular class: fills up fast!

Get into the spirit of sunshine of Caribbean dance and music.  Two courses:

Level I (beginners) is for anyone who wants to learn to dance partner Salsa, with easy and cool looking partner moves.

Level 2 is for anyone who wants to build up salsa skills or has completed level 1. This is also an introduction to Cuban Rueda de Casino.
$58 (city residents)/$70 (non-city residents). Age 16+, Maximum 18 people.

Click here for FB event here

Offered through city of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec. Need to pre-register!
Class number 311 401
www.santacruzparksandrec.com/register
More registration information here:
https://www.salsagente.com/cuban-style-salsa-classes-location-fees/#register

Salsa Gente Heats Up Salsa Night at Abbott Square

Chris & Jessica from Salsa Gente heat up Abbott Square Grand Opening Celebration

Thursday August 31, 2017
Downtown Santa Cruz, California

SALSA NIGHT 6pm to 9pm: free!
Salsa Cubana: 7:30pm to 9pm

Cuban-style Salsa and latest Cuban tunes from 7:30pm to 9pm
Featuring: demos, open class for beginners, and the latest and greatest tunes from Cuba
See also  www.AbbottSquare.org

Cuba Camp in Dos Rios, California!

Photo from last Cuba camp in 2014.

Dance Mission and CubaCaribe present CubaCamp!

SORRY Cuba camp was postponed until further notice!
We will let everyone know once we hear more.

Cuban Dance Workshop on June 24, 2017

With Royland Lobato

– 1pm to 2:15pm: Salsa Cubana
Salsa Suelta, Casino partnering
This is not Rueda, intermediate level, no partner required. $15

– 2:30pm to 3:45pm: Afro-Cuban Rumba
all levels, no partner required. $15

Both classes $15.
Cash only

Saturday, June 24, 2017
Louden Nelson Center
301 Center Street, Santa Cruz, CA

More here: https://www.salsagente.com/workshop-with-royland/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/116617808934750/

Cuban Dance with Royland on March 25, 2017

Dance workshop with Royland Lobato:
– 1pm to 2:15pm: Salsa Cubana
Salsa Suelta, Casino partnering
This is not Rueda, intermediate level, no partner required
– 2:30pm to 3:30pm: Afro-Cuban Rumba
all levels, no partner required
Saturday, March 25, 2017
Louden Nelson Center
301 Center Street, Santa Cruz, CA
More here: https://www.salsagente.com/workshop-with-royland/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/1862314487349461/

Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Cuban-style

Popular Salsa Crash Courses Intro Level

For Beginners: level 1 & 2
No partner required!
Each 4 Wednesdays from 7-8:15pm
Level 1 : Wed, Jan 18 – Feb 8, 2017
Level 2 : Wed, Feb 15 – Mar 8, 2017
Don’t miss this popular class: fills up fast!
Get into the spirit of sunshine of Caribbean dance and music.  Two courses: Level I (beginners) is for anyone who wants to learn to dance partner Salsa, with easy and cool looking partner moves. Level 2 is for anyone who wants to build up salsa skills or has completed level 1. This is also an introduction to Cuban Rueda de Casino.
$58 (city residents)/$70 (non-city residents). Age 16+, Maximum 18 people.
FB event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/654168821451262/
Offered through city of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec. Need to pre-register!
Class number 111 401
Click here for more info or to register

The Largest Cuban Music & Dance Festival Feb 16-19, 2017

The 9th Annual San Francisco Salsa Rueda Festival. The largest at the West Coast!
Afro-Cuban, African, Son, Salsa Rueda de Casino. Teachers and performers from all over the world! Enjoy four days of social dancing, world-class performances and shows, music from acclaimed bands and DJs, workshops and classes for all dance levels with top instructors, a beginner bootcamp, educational lectures and late night parties in the heart of one of the greatest cities in the world. Live band Timbalive, DJ Walt Digz and many others.
Chris & Jessica performed 3 times in the past at this annual festival!
Click here to see videos of their past performances

Dancing Rueda with Ritmo Latino in Germany

Ritmo Latino in Ulm, Germany

It is always a great experience connecting with other Rueda dancers around the world when we travel. Dancing Rueda de Casino in Ulm, Germany at RitmoLatino by Osmay Fermin Silva Navarro. What a wonderful and fun group they have in Ulm. There were much more dancers but most were already off dancing downstairs.

Our class in Fall 2016

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Group photo of our class in September 2016 at Louden Nelson Center downtown Santa Cruz.

Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Cuban-style

Fun Salsa Partner Dancing

Popular Salsa Crash Course Cuban-style for Beginners: level 1
No partner required!
Series class: 4 Wednesdays from 7-8:15pm
Wednesdays, Sept 14 – Oct 5, 2016
Don’t miss this popular class: fills up fast!
SORRY: LEVEL 1 CLASS IS FULL!
 

Salsa Rueda de Casino Series

Rueda de Casino Intermediate level

This is a 5-week series for intermediate level (Beg 2 and up) on Thursdays from 8 to 9pm.
No partner required. Min. 6 people. Age 16+.
$35 if pre-registered by August 27 (reg $42).
Drop-ins are still welcome for regular drop-in fee ($9) and need to know the moves (see above).
This is not a Parks & Rec class: contact Chris & Jessica to register.
FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/181633958925873/
SORRY:CLASS IS FULL!

Cuban Salsa Dance Workshop with Royland Lobato

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Intermediate level and up

Experience great Cuban dancing from a great Cuban master teacher! Don’t miss this rare opportunity with Cuban Salsa (Suelta, Casino, Rueda de Casino) with Royland Lobato from San Francisco.
Originally from Guantanamo, Cuba Royland graduated of the Escuela de Instructores de Arte de la Ciudad de La Habana. He is a professional dancer with an expertise in Afro-Cuban folkloric and Cuban popular dance. Royland is working over 17 years as a dance educator. He teaches regular classes in Rueda/Cuban Salsa, Afro-Cuban Folklloric and Cuban Rumba in San Francisco and Berkeley.

Friday, April 22, 2016,  7pm to 8:30pm, $15 (cash only)
Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center Street, Santa Cruz, CA
FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/1301685509846622/

Our class in spring 2016

Get into the spirit of sunshine of Caribbean dance and music. This popular crash course offers everyone a more sizzling Cuban variety. Level 2 is for anyone who wants to build up their Salsa dancing skills or have completed Level 1. Learn more turns, develop body movement and enjoy the relaxed and open Cuban style. Level 2 also includes an Rueda de Casino which is very popular in Cuba.
Location: Louden Nelson Center, downtown Santa Cruz, CA.
No partner required, age 16+, limited space.
SORRY:CLASS IS FULL!

The Largest Cuban Music & Dance Festival Feb 11-14

Chris & Jessica performed at this annual festival! This was their 3rd time performing at the festival.
Click here to see video: https://www.salsagente.com/category/performances/
The 8th Annual San Francisco Salsa Rueda Festival. The largest at the West Coast!
Afro-Cuban, African, Son, Salsa Rueda de Casino. Teachers and performers from all over the world! Enjoy four days of social dancing, world-class performances and shows, music from acclaimed bands and DJs, workshops and classes for all dance levels with top instructors, a beginner bootcamp, educational lectures and late night parties in the heart of one of the greatest cities in the world. Live band Timbalive, DJ Walt Digz and many others.

Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Level 1

Get into the spirit of sunshine of Caribbean dance and music. This popular crash course offers everyone who wants to learn to dance Salsa a more sizzling Cuban variety. Level 1 is for anyone who wants to learn to dance partner salsa, with easy and cool looking moves.
SORRY: LEVEL 1 CLASS IS FULL!
Level 1: begins Feb 24, 2016. Four Wednesdays from 7 to 8:15pm.
No partner required, age 16+, limited space.
This series is offered through the city of Santa Cruz Park & Rec. Pre-registration is required.

Join THE FORCE: last class in 2015: Dance Lesson + Party

Join us for our last class this year 2015!
Thur Dec 17 from 7:30pm to 9pm (one class, all levels).
We start with some Casino partner moves, later some Rueda.  Lots of dancing between and after with great Cuban music.
No partner required, drop-ins welcome.

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Salsa “Rueda” Series Beginner 2 and up

Series class for Beginner level 2 and up!
4 Thursdays from 8 to 9 pm.
Need to know following: Guapea, dame, enchufla doble, el uno, sombrero, and setenta.
We will review every week and build up.
Engage with ease! Finish the year with fun! Let yourself be enchanted!
$24 if you pre-register by October 29, otherwise $35.  Contact us to register.
SORRY: CLASS IS FULL!

Drop-ins are still welcome for regular drop-in fee and need to know the moves (see above).

Salsa CRASH Course Cuban-style for Beginners Level 2

No partner required! Limited space!
Last series classes all filled up fast with waiting list!
This class is ideal if you have basic Salsa dancing experience or have completed Chris & Jessica’s beginner series level 1. Learn more turns, develop movements and enjoy the relaxed and open Cuban style of dancing. This series also introduces Salsa Rueda de Casino.
Get a workout, gain confidence, learn great moves as your fun teachers keep you moving!
Level 2 (begins on Oct 21): Wednesdays from 7 pm to 8pm.
SORRY: CLASS IS FULL!

These 4-week series classes are offered by city of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation and pre-registration is required.
See: https://www.salsagente.com/cuban-style-salsa-classes-location-fees/#Series
FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/409070592615642/

CUBAN POPULAR DANCE with Jose “Cheo” Rojas Ramirez

Friday, Sept 25, 2015: 7pm to 8:30pm
Cost $15
Louden Nelson Center
downtown Santa Cruz
All levels (recommend basic Salsa knowledge)

 Jose “Cheo” Rojas coming to Santa Cruz for this one-time workshop featuring Cuban Popular dances such as Cuban “Salsa”, Mambo, ChaChaCha, Afro-Cuban Rumba, Pilon, and Mozambique.
Cheo is originally from Guantanamo, Cuba and co-founder of internationally renowned Cuban company Banrará. No live drumming!
See more information here: https://www.salsagente.com/workshop-with-jose-cheo-rojaz/

Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Level 1  Cuban-style

This popular 4-week crash course offers everyone who wants to learn to dance Salsa with easy and cool looking partner moves in a more relaxed and sizzling Cuban flavor. No partner required. Limited space.
Level 1 (begins on Sept 16, 2015)
Wednesdays from 7 pm to 8pm.
SORRY: CLASS IS FULL!

Offered by city of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation and pre-registration is required.
See: https://www.salsagente.com/cuban-style-salsa-classes-location-fees/#Series
FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/409070592615642/

Salsa Partner Dancing: Cuban-style (intermediate and up)

Every Thursday at 7pm we feature Salsa Cubana (not Rueda).  Explore or improve your dancing skills with the technique and style of  Salsa Suelta followed by cool partner dance moves from Santiago de Cuba and Havana. We play the latest tunes from Cuba.

Class is at Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center Street, downtown Santa Cruz.  The class is for all Salsa dancers with intermediate experience. No partner is required and we change partners frequently.

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Cuban Dance Workshop with Maiensy Sanchez

Another great treat for our Santa Cruz dancing scene! A workshop with Cuban-born Maiensy Sanchez who is visiting us for one day:
– Body styling and movements for Men & Women
– Casino Partner dancing
The workshop is designed for people with some background in either Casino/Salsa or Rueda de Casino.
No partner required.

Friday, July 17, 2015
7pm-8:30pm,  $15
Louden Nelson Center
301 Center Street
Santa Cruz, CA

https://www.facebook.com/events/576988415766670/

Essence of Cuba: Rumba and Orisha Workshop with Kati Hernandez

Featuring live drumming with legendary Lazaro Galarraga and Bobby Wilmore!

This is a real treat for all dance aficionados and also all Salsa dancers in Santa Cruz!

Saturday, June 20, 2015
12:30 – 1:30pm Afro-Cuban Rumba $20
2:00 – 3:30pm Orisha $25
Both classes $40
Louden Nelson Center
301 Center Street
Santa Cruz, CA

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Click here or image to see more
FB:  https://www.facebook.com/events/1582986065283792/

Cuban Salsa Dance Workshop With Royland Lobato

Coming back to Santa Cruz:

Royland Lobato

Cuban Salsa & Salsa Rueda Workshop

Intermediate level and up

Experience great Cuban dancing from a great Cuban master teacher! Don’t miss this rare opportunity with Cuban Salsa & Rueda class with Royland Lobato from San Francisco.
Originally from Guantanamo, Cuba Royland graduated of the Escuela de Instructors de Arte de la Ciudad de La Habana. He is a professional dancer with an expertise in Afro-Cuban folkloric and Cuban popular dance. Royland is working over 17 years as a dance educator. He teaches regular classes in Rueda/Cuban Salsa, Afro-Cuban Folklloric and Cuban Rumba in San Francisco and Berkeley.

Friday, March 6, 2015,  7pm to 8:30pm, $15
Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center Street, Santa Cruz, CA

https://www.salsagente.com/roylandlobato/salsa-gente/workshop
FB invite here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1561523934133578

Thursday class in 2015

Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Level 2 begins February 26

Build up your Salsa dancing skills!
Have more fun!
This is partner dancing. Learn more turns, develop movements and enjoy the relaxed and open Cuban style of dancing with a partner. This class is ideal if you have basic Salsa dancing experience or have completed Chris & Jessica’s beginner series level 1.
No partner is required. Limited space!
Chris and Jessica have 15 years experience and regularly study with renowned Cuban teachers and in Cuba.
Sorry: class is full!
This is a 4-week series on Thursdays at 7pm.
Class begins Thursday Feb 26 at 7pm. Maximum 18 people. Age 16+.
Louden Nelson Center, downtown Santa Cruz.  Fee $45 city residents/$57 non city.
Pre-registration is required  at City of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec.
https://online.activenetwork.com/SCInstaReg/Start/Start.asp

Largest Cuban Music & Dance Festival in the US!

The 7th Salsa Rueda Festival in San Francisco: Febr 19-22, 2015
Chose “Salsa Gente” under referee list when registering!
Beginners classes, Intermediate and Advanced workshops in Rueda, Salsa, Casino, Folklore, Rumba, Son and more. Social dance classes. Learn real social dance skills from the best Cuban Salsa dance instructors in the world. Live bands: Rumbache, Timbalive and Mayito Rivera (ex-Los Van Van) with TIMBALIVE. DJ Walt Digz, Asho, Dark Rum, Alan, Belen, and El Gato Volador (Italy).
Click here to see the performance of Chris & Jessica at the last Festival in San Francisco: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uU8HOoTXYH4
 

Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Level 1 begins Jan 29

For anyone who wants to learn to dance Salsa, meet people and have fun!
Two skilled and non-intimidating instructors will build up your dancing skill. In just 4 weeks you will step up on the dance floor with easy, cool looking moves. This is partner dancing using Cuban-style techniques.

No partner is required. Limited space!
Sorry: class is full!
This is a 4-week series on Thursdays at 7pm.
Class begins Thursday Jan 29 at 7pm. Maximum 18 people. Age 16+.
Louden Nelson Center, downtown Santa Cruz.  Fee $45 city residents/$57 non city.
Pre-registration is required  at City of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec.  Limited space!
https://online.activenetwork.com/SCInstaReg/Start/Start.asp

Confirmed: special Cuban Salsa Workshop Friday Nov 7, 2014

Royland Lobato

Cuban Salsa & Salsa Rueda Workshop

Intermediate level and up

Experience great Cuban dancing from a great Cuban master teacher! Don’t miss this rare opportunity with Cuban Salsa & Rueda class with Royland Lobato from San Francisco.

Originally from Guantanamo, Cuba Royland graduated of the Escuela de Instructors de Arte de la Ciudad de La Habana. He is a professional dancer with an expertise in Afro-Cuban folkloric and Cuban popular dance. Royland is working over 17 years as a dance educator. He teaches regular classes in Rueda/Cuban Salsa, Afro-Cuban Folklloric and Cuban Rumba in San Francisco and Berkeley.
Friday, November 7, 2014, 7pm to 8:30pm, $15
Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center Street, Santa Cruz, CA
More information here:
https://www.salsagente.com/roylandlobato/salsa-gente/workshop
FB invite here: https://www.facebook.com/events/596147757172173/

Thursday class 2014

Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Level 2 begins October 16, 2014

Build up your Salsa dancing skills!
Have more fun!
This class is ideal if you have basic Salsa dancing experience or have completed Chris & Jessica’s beginner series level 1.
Learn more turns, develop movements and enjoy the relaxed and open Cuban style of dancing.
No partner is required. Limited space!

This series class builds up each week, so attendance to all sessions is required.
Chris and Jessica have 15 years experience and regularly study with renowned Cuban teachers and in Cuba.
This is a 4-week series on Thursdays at 7pm.
Class begins Thursday Oct 16 at 7pm. Maximum 18 people. Age 16+.
Louden Nelson Center, downtown Santa Cruz.  Fee $40 city residents/$52 non city.
Pre-registration is required  at City of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec.
https://online.activenetwork.com/SCInstaReg/Start/Start.asp

Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Level 1 begins Sept 18

For anyone who wants to learn to dance Salsa, meet people and have fun! Two skilled and non-intimidating instructors will build up your dancing skill. In just 4 weeks you will step up on the dance floor with easy, cool looking moves. This is partner dancing using Cuban-style techniques.
No partner is required. Limited space!

Class is full! 
This is a 4-week series on Thursdays at 7pm.
Class begins Thursday Sept 18 at 7pm. Maximum 18 people. Age 16+.
Pre-registration is required  at City of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec.  Limited space!
https://online.activenetwork.com/SCInstaReg/Start/Start.asp
Louden Nelson Center, downtown Santa Cruz.  Fee $40 city residents/$52 non city.

CUBA CAMP north of San Francisco August 29: GET DISCOUNT!

Don’t have time or money to travel to Cuba? Join Chris & Jessica to Cuba Dance Camp!
If we can get 5 people or more, each one gets $50 discount! Contact us!

Immerse yourself in a vibrant weekend of Cuban music, dance, relaxation and fun. Adult students have the opportunity to take Cuban folkloric, popular, modern dance (includes Rueda de Casino, Salsa Suelta), song and percussion classes.
Cuba Dance Camp is offered by Dance Mission Theater, San Francisco. Sponsored by Cuba Caribe and Dance Brigade.

Featuring also performances!
Master Teachers: Katie Hernandez, Royland Lobato, Silfredo La O, “La Lora” Perez, Jose “Cheo” Rojas, Ramon Ramos Alayo, Ramon Sandy Perez, Juan Carlos Blanco, and more….
August 29 to September 1, 2014
Dos Rios, California Camp with access to the river.
Cost: $300 includes meals $250 (sleep/eat off-site)
Register with Dance Mission Theater
http://dancemission.com/dos_rios/cubacamp.html

Contact us for more information or for discount info:  www.salsagente.com

Afro-Cuban RUMBA & ORISHA Dance Workshop

Featuring:

Jose Francisco Barroso

Sunday, July 20, 2014

Two workshops: 2pm and 3:30pm

Both workshops are for all levels!

The 418
418 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA
$15 one class, $24 two classes

Afro Cuban Rumba and Orisha dances illustrate the essence of all Cuban movement and will enhance your salsa style, freestyle ability, and flow!
Click on image or here to see more information:
https://www.salsagente.com/workshopwithjose/salsa-gente/salsa/afro-cuban-workshop

FB invite here: https://www.facebook.com/events/741504205909681/

Salsa Cubana drop-in every Monday 7pm!

Experience the Cuban style of dancing Salsa! Featuring a great variety from Casino partner moves, Salsa Suelta and body styling to Rueda de Casino.
Entry level: intermediate dancers.
No partner required!
Enjoy two skilled teachers with 15 years experience and who study regularly with Cubans and in Cuba. Age: 16+.  Click on link below to see our regular schedule:
https://www.salsagente.com/Cuban-style-Salsa-classes-location-fees#schedule

Salsa Rueda for drop-ins every Thursday 8pm!

Salsa Rueda class for drop-ins!
8pm to 9pm. Two levels:
Intro/Beginner and Beg 2/Intermediate.
No Partner required!  Friendly, non-intimidating atmosphere. Great instructors. Cool but easy moves to sizzling Salsa music.

Click on image or here to see full schedule:
https://www.salsagente.com/Cuban-style-Salsa-classes-location-fees#schedule

Images from our Thursday class

Click on photo to see images from our Thursday class or click below
https://www.salsagente.com/thursday-class-2014/salsa-gente/salsa/thursday-class-2014

National Dance Week: free classes for new students

National Dance Week celebration:
Free drop-in classes for NEW students:
Monday, April 28 at  7pm Salsa Cubana (for intermediate dancers).
Thursday, May 1 at 8pm Salsa Rueda (Intro/Beginner and Beg 2/Int): two groups.

Click  below or on photo:
https://www.salsagente.com/Cuban-style-Salsa-classes-location-fees

National Dance Week: Performance Thur, April 24

Chris & Jessica from Salsa Gente performed at Stage 2 (Pacific and Locust) downtown Santa Cruz. This piece was choreographed with Ramon Ramos Alayo of Alayo Dance Company, San Francisco. Enjoy the Santa Cruz premiere of “Inolvidable”, featuring a variety of Cuban dances such as Danzon, Yambu (Rumba), Salsa Suelta,  Casino (Salsa), ChaChaCha and Mambo.

Check out images here: https://www.salsagente.com/national-dance-week-2014/salsa-gente/national-dance-week-2014

Cuban workshops with Maiensy Sanchez begins: Fri April 18, 2014!

Enjoy a weekend of  Cuabn-dance workshops with Cuban-born Maiensy Sanchez. Kick-off begins on Friday, April 18 at 7pm with Cuban Casino Partner Dance & Styling at Louden Nelson Center, downtown Santa Cruz . $12, Max 25 people!
Click here to see more about this special workshop and about the workshop Maiensy has on Saturday April 19, 2014 in Santa Cruz.

Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Level 3 begins March 27

Build up your Salsa dancing skills, have more fun! No partner required!
This is mainly partner dance with Cuban-style techniques. Learn more turns, develop movements and enjoy the relaxed and open Cuban-style of dancing.
This is a 4-week series on Thursdays at 7pm. The class is for everyone who has basic Salsa dance experience.
Maxi18. Age 16+. Class begins Thursday March 27 at 7pm.
Pre-registration is required with SalsaGente.com! Limited space!
Louden Nelson Center, downtown Santa Cruz.  Fee $38.

Begins Feb 27: Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Level 2

Build up your Salsa dancing skills!  This is a 4-week series class. This class is ideal if you have completed Chris & Jessica’s beginner series level 1, or if you have basic Salsa dancing experience. Learn more turns, develop movements and enjoy the relaxed and open Cuban style of dancing.
No partner required! Limited space!
Class begins on Thursday February 27, 2014 at 7pm.
Pre-registration is required at the city of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec.  Location: Louden Nelson Center Santa Cruz, CA.
https://www.salsagente.com/Cuban-style-Salsa-classes-location-fees#schedule
CLASS FULL! Waiting list! 

Chris & Jessica performed at
the largest international Cuban music and dance festival in the US!

Chris & Jessica teamed up with Ramon Ramos Alayo of Alayo Dance Company (San Francisco) for a unique duet performance. Technical direction also provided by Jose Francisco Barroso. Click here to see the video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uU8HOoTXYH4
This is the largest international Cuban music and dance festival in the US! The 6th annual Salsa Rueda Festival at the hotel Whitcomb in San Francisco on February 13th – 16th, 2014. Four days of workshops from beginners, intermediate to advanced. Every day performances, live bands and dance parties. People from around the world. Not only Rueda but also Salsa, Casino, Folklore, Rumba, Son and more.

Begins January 2014: Salsa CRASH Course for Beginners Level 1

For anyone who wats to learn to dance Salsa. In just 4 weeks you will step up on the dance floor with easy, cool looking moves. This is partner dancing using Cuban-style techniques.
No partner required!  Class begins on Thursday January 20, 2014 at 7pm.
Pre-registration is required at the city of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec.  Limited space!
Location : Louden Nelson Center downtown Santa Cruz, CA.
https://www.salsagente.com/Cuban-style-Salsa-classes-location-fees#schedule
CLASS FULL! Waiting List! 

Afro Cuban Orisha & Salsa Workshop with Jose Francisco Barroso

We are proud to present award-winning Cuban-born Jose Francisco Barroso for two-class workshop.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity!

Location: Louden Nelson Center, downtown Santa Cruz on Saturday, January 18, 2014 starting 2pm.
Limited space. No partner required!

Workshop is open for all levels!
$15 one class, $25 two classes.

Click here to see more information and the biography of Jose Francisco Barroso
https://www.salsagente.com/josefranciscobarroso/salsa-gente/josefranciscobarroso

Performance in Santiago de Cuba in July 2013!

Chris and Jessica from Salsa Gente performed with dancers from Danza del Caribe and members of the DanceInCuba study trip at the 33rd Festival del Caribe in Santiago de Cuba.

Click here to see the video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfaVvyC72Tw

Originally from Guantanamo, Cuba Royland graduated of the Escuela de Instructors de Arte de la Ciudad de La Habana. He is a professional dancer with an expertise in Afro-Cuban folkloric and Cuban popular dance.

Royland is working over 17 years as a dance educator. He teaches regular classes in Rueda/Cuban Salsa, Afro-Cuban Folklloric and Cuban Rumba in San Francisco and Berkeley.