As most of you know, I’ve been dancing street salsa for many years both locally here in San Diego and around the world.   Over those years I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy the dance and the positive changes that it has brought to my life.  From time to time I reflect on these changes and it occurred to me that my salsa dancing has affected me in a way I never would have imagined.

When I opened up my closet recently I noticed that I have not one but two separate parts to my wardrobe.  Indeed, on one side I had all my regular clothing and on the other I had what I call my "salsa wardrobe."  Any of you out there that have been dancing salsa for a while understand immediately what I mean by this simple revelation.   The clothing worn by a dancer can define that person just as much as their dance style and my separate salsa wardrobe reflects that to the core.

This got me thinking about an often overlooked part of our dance world, the people that provide the wonderful range of clothing and shoe options for us to wear.  One organization in particular, e.K. Clothing caught my attention in the Latin dance community and I recently sat down for an interview with the company’s owner,  Nicole Shahian,  to talk about outfitting the Latin dance world.

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Ritmo Bello: Nicole, let’s go ahead and begin.  Many people that are new to salsa dancing here in San Diego are not sure what type of options are out there for footwear and dance clothing.  What makes e.K. Clothing a good option for them to consider?

e.K. Clothing: Our prices are pretty reasonable and usually if orders are received Monday – Saturday by about 1pm or so, they’re shipped the same day. Returns are easy and most of our styles are great for Salsa and other types of Latin dancing.

Ritmo Bello: How did e.K. Clothing get started?

e.K. Clothing: Well, just like the song – Todo Empezo…Bailando! About 4-5 years ago, I was out dancing almost every night and was always looking for new Salsa clothes, because you know how it is…Salseros usually have a semi-separate Salsa wardrobe, right? I made a couple of purchases from several major online retailers and was disappointed in the price vs. quality. So I figured maybe I could offer dancers a better option…

Ritmo Bello: I know that salsa and mambo dresses are one of the things you specialize in providing to the dance community.  Can you provide some helpful tips on what somebody might look for and consider when shopping for a salsa or mambo dress at your store?

e.K. Clothing: Any clothing that has ruffles, flounces, slits and cascades will extend or accent your movement and actually make you *look* like a better dancer. Halter straps (as opposed to tank straps) are nice because they don’t slip off the shoulders. Mid length skirts with zig zag bottoms spin beautifully. Also, blends of Polyester, Nylon and/or Spandex are the best kind of fabric blends for dancers because they stretch nicely, wash easily and dry quickly.

Ritmo Bello: Are there different options available for ladies interested in specialized dresses for ballroom or Argentine Tango?

e.K. Clothing: Some of our ready to wear items are popular with Tango dancers - usually the more elegant, sharper styles or those with some sort of lace detail. For Ballroom dancers, a lot of our skirts are great for practice wear. At this time we don’t offer custom Ballroom dresses, though.

Ritmo Bello: I also understand that you offer skirts and pant options to women dancers.  What are some of the advantages of choosing an option like this compared to a full dress?

e.K. Clothing: Dresses and skirts typically have a lot more movement and can be much more eye catching. Pants are quick and easy and you never have to worry about them flying or inching up as you’re dancing. Pants and skirts are a nice option for those who like to mix and match and sometimes are better for women who may need a different size up top than what they wear on bottom.

Ritmo Bello: How does a dancer find the right sizing for a dress, skirt, or pant when considering some of your clothing?

e.K. Clothing: It is always important to consider your body type. There are certain styles that are more flattering to different figures and it is just a matter of finding what cut/style suits you best. Everyone has their favorite pieces of clothing that they tend to wear over and over again. If you can figure out what it is that you like about your favorite outfits and look for those qualities when clothes shopping, you’re more likely to be happy with your new purchases. Also, knowing your measurements (these can be taken with a tailor’s tape measure) is always helpful. Every clothing manufacturer is different, so ALWAYS take a look at the size chart if you’re shopping online!

Ritmo Bello: In terms of footwear, what are some things you recommend to somebody looking for good salsa, mambo, or even tango dance shoes?  What characteristics make for a really good dance shoe?

e.K. Clothing: Dance shoes should be flexible, have a non grip bottom that has just enough traction for spins and should always STAY PUT on your feet, especially around your heels. For women, wearing dance shoes (instead of regular street shoes) absolutely makes a difference. Although dancing shoes might be a little more expensive, usually they are made with quality materials and last a long time. For suede bottom shoes, almost any cobbler can replace the suede when it wears out, so don’t worry too much about preserving the suede - just dance!

Ritmo Bello: In your opinion what is the best heel height for dancing?

e.K. Clothing: The best heel height is what you’re most comfortable in–for women, if you’re not used to wearing high heels, dancing in them will take a while getting used to. I’d suggest a thicker heel if comfort is the main concern, because the more area that weight is distributed across, the better. However, the most common heel for women’s Latin dance shoes is 2.5 inch slim heel. Padded soles or inserts help with getting used to higher heels.

For men, usually a 1 inch heel is the standard. Some men who dance a lot or compete prefer the 1.5 inch heels, but I’ve been told those take some getting used to as well.

Ritmo Bello: Do you offer customized shoe making options for dancers?  If somebody had an idea for creating a custom shoe with e.K. Clothing what is that process like?

e.K. Clothing: We do! We have many, many custom colors available for all shoe styles. Custom designs can even have 2 or more chosen colors/materials. Customers specify the style, color/material(s) and heel height and in 3-5 weeks the shoes will be finished.

Ritmo Bello: I’ve talked to a number of professional dancers that have mentioned your store as a great place to find group dance or performance style dresses.  What kind of options do you offer to those dance groups looking to outfit their whole team?

e.K. Clothing: Group discounts start at 10% for purchases of 3 or more of the same item, regardless of color or size. We also carry sizes S-3X and often have a larger selection of colors in stock, which varies by season. Also, depending on the style, we can accommodate custom sizes and colors with a fairly quick turn around.

Ritmo Bello: Although most of your offerings are geared towards women, do you offer anything for men visiting your store?

e.K. Clothing: Currently we have men’s shoes. Hopefully by the end of the year, we’ll have some clothing for men as well…we’ve been told they’re feeling a little left out…

Ritmo Bello: Is there any chance we’ll see you in San Diego wearing some of the items you sell at e.K. Clothing?

e.K. Clothing: Right now, probably not John …I’m pretty much glued to our retail store in Lomita, CA 6 days a week.

Ritmo Bello: How can the Ritmo Bello audience reach you if they want to find out more information about e.K. Clothing?

e.K. Clothing: We can be reached at the e.k. Clothing website , 888-831-0925 or info@ekclothing.com.

Ritmo Bello: Nicole, on behalf of the Ritmo Bello audience and the San Diego dance community thanks so much for providing quality clothing options for dancers…

e.K. Clothing: Thank you!  Maybe one day I’ll see you on the dance floor!

Here in San Diego, California many people are unfamiliar with the Brazilian dance known as samba.  Indeed, I have to admit that I too share in this unfamiliarity with the high energy dance from Brazil.  Although there may be places to visit for samba dancing here in San Diego, those venues typically don’t get the same exposure as salsa and tango dancing venues.

We all recognize, though, the distinctive sounds and dress typical of Brazil’s Carnaval celebrations (it’s hard not to notice the headdresses and seductive movements associated with the dance). I also think we can all appreciate the high spirited and exuberant happiness that the dance can bring to people.

One individual here in San Diego is doing her part to promote samba dance and to bring the joy of the dance to everyone.  I recently spoke with Jazz Baptiste, Master Brazilian Dance Instructor, about what is happening in samba today here in San Diego.

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Ritmo Bello : Thanks for taking some time to talk to the Ritmo Bello audience about what’s new in samba dancing for San Diego.  Samba seems like an up and coming dance here locally in "America’s Finest City".  What do you offer to people in San Diego that want to learn more about samba dancing?

Jazz Baptiste: We offer samba dance classes throughout the week plus dance workshops with master instructors.  We also do dance presentations and events.

Ritmo Bello: Tell me a little about how you started your organization. Did you grow up dancing samba?

Jazz Baptiste : I started dancing samba in 2003 when introduced to it at a local nightclub.  The drums were intoxicating, the music was lively and joyful, the samba dance was energetic and sexy and I wanted to learn more. I was hooked from the first night.  I began learning about the dance, the music and culture.  In the fall of 2003 I started dancing samba professionally. A year later I was teaching samba around town and started my own samba dance performing group, Alegria Samba School .  Since 2004 it has been my mission to share my joy of samba dance with San Diego and beyond.

Ritmo Bello: I know that Samba has roots in Brasil.  Where exactly does samba dancing come from though?

Jazz Baptiste: The samba (or Mesemba) which means "to pray" is an Afro-Brazilian dance from Bahia, Brazil. It is derived from a dance called the Lundu, The West African slaves, Portuguese songs and Indian rituals. When different body motions and carnival steps were added to the dance, it was called the "Zemba Queca", described as a graceful Brazilian dance. In the early 1900’s the Mesemba was mixed with the Maxixe (Brazilian tango) to become known as the Samba.

Ritmo Bello : I understand that there are different types of samba dancing. What is the difference between samba no pe, samba de gafieira, samba pagode, and other types of samba?

Jazz Baptiste: Samba no pe is the faster Carnaval type samba usually danced to the fast batucada drum beats of samba de enredo or Carnaval samba.  Samba de gafieira is the Brazilian ballroom samba which mixes Brazilian tango or Maxixe with samba music.  Samba pagode is a slower samba sometimes danced with partners and sometimes solo that moves to a slower tempo samba beat. Samba rock is combines samba and rock music making for a very modern music and dance style.  Samba de roda is samba danced in a circle. A group forms and individuals go into the center of the circle and do solo samba dances and then select someone else to take their place in the middle.

Ritmo Bello: How difficult is it to learn samba dancing?  What types of steps are involved in the dance?

Jazz Baptiste: Samba is a more challenging dance to learn than others such as salsa, but not impossible. Your footwork moves to a 1 and a 2 beat while your hips are on a 1/2 beat hitting every other two matching the surdo drum of the batucada. For people who have a dance background it is a little easier to pick up samba because they are already used to rhythm dancing. For pure beginners I recommend patience and consistency in order to get a comfortable handle on the samba dance, which is normally reached after about 3 months.

Ritmo Bello : Apart from Samba dancing what other types of dancing are you proficient in?

Jazz Baptiste: I am a professional dancer and instructor of Belly dance, Latin dance including: Salsa, Merengue, Cha Cha, Bachata and Rumba, Ballroom dance, Afro-Brazilian dance and ballet.  I have been dancing and training for over 20 years.

Ritmo Bello : Anything else you’d like to share with general public?

Jazz Baptiste: Samba is not just a beautiful dance and cultural experience but it also an amazing workout.  Samba keeps people in shape and also brings out a great joy from within.  Everyone should give samba a try at least once in their lives.

Ritmo Bello: How can the Ritmo Bello audience reach you if they want to find out more information about your organization?

Jazz Baptiste: For more information on Brazilian Samba dance classes and events go to the San Diego Salsa and Latin Dancing Meetup Group . You can also visit my website at www.jazzbaptiste.com . People can also send us an e-mail at info@jazzbaptiste.com

Ritmo Bello: Jazz, thank you for your time and for bringing more samba events to the San Diego area!

The local San Diego dance scene (which includes salsa, tango, samba, and other types of Latin dancing) is expanding and garnering more exposure worldwide.   San Diego’s salsa dance scene, though, is definitely still in development compared to larger market areas like New York and Miami.  From time to time I like to take a look outside of my own area to see how others are spreading salsa dance within their own communities.  As a salsa dancer in the local San Diego dance community, I am always looking for examples of how others are helping promote the genre and spread the virtues of the dance.

Los Angeles, although a short drive away from San Diego, presents a totally different and vast salsa dance experience as compared to San Diego.  Recently I found an organization similar to Ritmo Bello in Los Angeles that helps inform the local community regarding salsa dancing related information.  Vida Salsera, Spanish for "Salsa Life", has kept the Southern California/Los Angeles salsa community up to date with its salsa dance scene, including special events, concerts, and live music performances since November of 2005.  

I sat down with Dena Burroughs of Vida Salsera to talk about her experiences in promoting salsa dancing in her own community:

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Ritmo Bello : San Diego and Southern California are areas where Salsa is very popular.  What does your organization offer to the community in terms of Salsa dancing information?

VidaSalsera: VidaSalsera.com is primarily a calendar of live music events, mainly of Salsa bands, in the L.A. area. However, I have a smaller “Out of Town” section in which I post events for as far north as San Francisco and south as San Diego. I have separate sections for Salsa clubs in L.A., as well as information on bands and DJs that someone could hire, instructors, CDS, and so forth.

Ritmo Bello: What are the origins of your organization?

VidaSalsera: I started VidaSalsera.com in November of 2005. It was truly a project of love - I wanted to create a site where I could support the Salsa movement in L.A., particularly the artists and musicians, with the freedom of expression that would only come from owning my own site.

Ritmo Bello : On your website I see that you promote many different types of events and even have areas where musicians can list their information.  Can you tell me a little about how that started?

VidaSalsera: I got deep into the Salsa scene about a decade ago. I went through that crazy euphoria that new dancers all get into – I wanted to do nothing but dance, at every spare moment of my day. As time went by, my infatuation with Salsa dancing matured into a real love for the music itself and an appreciation for those who make it so beautiful, who are so talented, yet really do not often get the attention, or the recognition, they deserve – the musicians. Without them, there’s no music to dance to. My intention is to, in whatever small way I can, support what they do so that the music will not end.

Ritmo Bello: I also saw on your website that you offer information about other things such as salsa music information.  What’s been your experience with salsa over the years and the public’s response to the music & dance?

VidaSalsera: I am convinced that knowing what a song says, for example, makes a huge difference in how you enjoy it, even how you dance to it. The lyrics of a song can make you laugh when they’re funny, and when you laugh your composure, your body movements, your actual dance, changes. By the same token, when the song is romantic and perhaps manages to remind you of your current or past love, the experience of listening and dancing to it is transformed. Because we are in the U.S., and because many of the Salsa lovers here are English speakers, I have a hunch they’re missing out on a very important part of the Salsa experience. That’s why I started the “Salsa Lyrics” section on my site. Slowly, (because it’s very time consuming) but surely, I am translating the lyrics of Salsa songs into English. Hopefully, those who read them will remember what a particular song says the next time they dance to it. I think a few people agree with me because the lyrics request link of my site is one of the most active ones.

Ritmo Bello: I had an opportunity to visit your YouTube channel today and see that you’ve posted lots of salsa related videos for the public to view.  If an artists or somebody looking for exposure to your audience wanted to have a video posted what is the process like?

VidaSalsera : Invite me over to a gig! I will do my darn best to get a good video. I have limited resources, mind you. I go around with a small, yet amazing, Sony camera that does wonders, and I do look for the right angle, the right light, and the right moment to come up with a good shot. YouTube is a fabulous resource for artists. Some of my videos have been watched thousands of times. The video I took of Gilberto Santarosa at The Mayan has been viewed over 70,000 times! That floors me, but that shows you the power of the Internet to make things known. Every musician should take advantage of it.

Ritmo Bello :  I know that you are based out of Los Angeles, California and have great insight into the Southern California salsa scene.  Do you ever make your way down to San Diego for a little bit of salsa dancing?

VidaSalsera: I make my way everywhere. (Helps that I am a little hyperactive, a little A.D.D. and a lot insomniac. ::smile::) I have been to the La Jolla Marriott , to Club Miami , to Cafe Sevilla , to Havana Restaurant, to the Harrah’s Rincon, to many Salsa places in San Diego. And, for the record, I have very lovely memories of Thanksgiving holidays at San Diego’s Café Sevilla, from many years ago, when Salsa was my best friend during some rather lonely times. I will always treasure Café Sevilla’s turkey and stuffing dinners to the sounds of Salsa. That should be a tradition that should never die.

Ritmo Bello : Anything else you’d like to share with the general public?

VidaSalsera: There’s this story about how, when the great philosopher Socrates was in prison, a voice spoke to him on a dream, saying, “Practice music, Socrates!” For most of his life Socrates had been trying to separate philosophy from art, from music. Years later, Nietzche used that “Practice music, Socrates!” to point out that humans are best when they combine both their thinking ability with their appreciation for the arts; that we can be thinkers, serious people, responsible, and so forth, and still have a passion for music, for poetry, for art as a whole. For those of us whose passion is this music and this dance… it’s all good - Nietzche would approve. So… Practice Salsa, everybody!

Ritmo Bello: How can the Ritmo Bello audience reach you if they want to find out more information about your organization?

VidaSalsera: My name is Dena Burroughs. I am at www.vidasalsera.com and dena@vidasalsera.com Say hi anytime. Suggestions, information, commentary and constructive criticism are always welcome. Thank you,  John.

Ritmo Bello: Thanks Dena for all that you do to promote salsa dancing!

In the past I’ve written about the different salsa congresses that take place around the world.  Many of the the professionals involved in these competitions contend for the coveted privilege of performing in the World Salsa Federation’s (WSF) World Salsa Championships.

The WSF is recognized by the Amateur Athletic Union , the largest amateur sporting organization in the U.S. with over 800,000 members. Isaac Altman and the World Salsa Federation were successful in bringing Salsa and DanceSport as official sports in the Junior Olympic Games since 2002.  I had the unique privilege of talking with Isaac regarding his efforts to bring his organization’s goals to Southern California and particularly, San Diego.

Enjoy!!!

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Ritmo Bello : Isaac, thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to address the Ritmo Bello audience.  To start off, what is the mission and focus of your organization as it pertains to the San Diego Salsa and Southern California Salsa communities?

World Salsa Federation: Our mission is generally the same World-Wide, however, Southern California is definitely a hotbed for Salsa dancers.  Our mission is as follows:

To promote, encourage, publicize and facilitate the art of Salsa dancing including leisure and competitive style, by giving demonstrations, holding competitions and exhibitions, by organizing or sponsoring lectures, lessons and examinations, awarding certificates, prizes and scholarships and doing all such matters and things as will conduce to raising or improving the standard of Salsa dancing, including leisure and competitive styles, and by promoting uniformity of instruction in the basic and advanced steps of Salsa through a uniform Bronze, Silver, and Gold Syllabus .

To encourage, foster and increase public interest in the art of Salsa dancing.  To formulate and secure international recognition and adoption of official international rules and Syllabus of Competitive Salsa dancing, and to encourage the promotion and proper conduct of competition, and the recognition of established championships.  To do all such things as are likely to promote and improve the standard of Salsa dancing.   To encourage the general public to obtain instruction only from qualified teachers, and to do all such things as are likely to promote and improve the standard of conduct to raising or maintaining the professional status and ethical standards of all persons engaged or seeking to be engaged in the teaching of Salsa dancing.  To grant permission for approved National WSF member organizations to organize, world, continental and area/regional continental championships in Salsa that are controlled by the WSF, and such other titles as may from time to time be determined by the WSF.  To formulate rules to govern such championships and other titles in accordance with the rules of the WSF and/or other rules recognized by the WSF, which are not incompatible with these objects, and which shall include the governance of the conduct of member organizations and persons or bodies recognized by and/or is registered with the WSF.  To promote, facilitate and encourage exchanges of information on all matters pertaining to Salsa dancing.

To formulate promulgate and oversee a uniform method of judging and marking in all Salsa competitions and championships throughout the world.  To acquire the copyrights and other rights, licenses and privileges of any sort likely to be conducive to the objects of the WSF and to encourage, assist and employ persons to write, compose or invent dance steps, music, musical arrangements and scripts and remunerate such person or persons, and to print, publish or cause to be printed or published, books, pamphlets, newspapers, journals, circularize, instructional handbooks and/or video tapes, dances steps, dance arrangements, music and musical scores and arrangements and literature of any kind likely to further the objects of the WSF and its members; and to sell, distribute and deal with any matter so printed or recorded as the WSF may think fit and to grant licenses or rights in respect of any property of the WSF and to enter into agreements with  persons, firms or societies in connection with the same.  To secure the recognition of competitions and other events that  are recognized by the WSF.

Ritmo Bello: What are the origins of your organization?

World Salsa Federation: The WSF is a United States corporation with World Headquarters in Miami, Florida, and was legally formed in August 2001, and is the recognized World Governing Body for Salsa Competition.

Ritmo Bello : Are there any dance or music artists you are currently promoting that you’d like the public to know more about?

World Salsa Federation: The WSF is not an organization that promotes music artists as such.  The WSF is a dance organization, but does help music artists get work at no charge.  The WSF currently has several World-Class dancers it manages called Las Estrellas De La Salsa.

Ritmo Bello: I saw on your website that you offer a model search feature?

World Salsa Federation:

Yes we do.  We are always looking for people to highlight in our print and TV ads.

Ritmo Bello: What are some of the programs and services that you offer apart from the model search?

World Salsa Federation: The World Salsa Federation, Inc. provides top-notch certification for Teachers, Instructional DVD’s and Videos, Achievement Awards for Amateurs, and with great customer support.

Ritmo Bello : I heard that you are hosting the Salsa World Championships in Miami, right?

World Salsa Federation:

That is correct.  On behalf of the Board of Directors of the World Salsa Federation, Inc. I would like to welcome everyone to the 7th Annual World Professional Salsa Championships to be held November 7th and 8th, 2008.  This year I am sure we will celebrate with record attendance at our wonderful facility, the Miccosukee Resort and Gaming facility in Miami, Florida.  Over 2 days, competitors will have an opportunity to be World Champions in their style and then go head to head for the title of Undisputed World Professional Salsa Champions.  The Undisputed World Professional Salsa Champions will represent the best of Salsa competitive dancing, and will represent the WSF world wide. Also included this year will be the World Junior and Youth Salsa Championships.  The youth come to this event with unsurpassed energy and enthusiasm.  Come watch them compete as these young people will be our future salsa stars!!!

Ritmo Bello : Anything else you’d like to share with the general public?

World Salsa Federation: We hope that we will get to meet all the wonderful people of Southern California and share in our passion, SALSA!

Ritmo Bello: How can the Ritmo Bello audience reach you if they want to find out more information about your organization?

World Salsa Federation: You can call us at 786-566-2604, visit our website at www.wsfsalsa.com , or email us at wsfsalsa@yahoo.com

Ritmo Bello: Isaac, on behalf of Ritmo Bello thank you for your time and good luck on your future endeavors!

As the Main organizer for the San Diego Salsa and Latin Dancing Meetup Group I have the honor of meeting dance professionals from all genres of the Latin dance world.

Here in San Diego the dance community is particularly privileged to have one such professional from the Tango world helping keep the dance alive.

Susan Lake from Susan Lake Productions recently sat down with me for an interview to discuss tango dance and music here in San Diego, California. Below is the article. Enjoy!

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Ritmo Bello: Hi Susan, thanks for taking the time to address the Ritmo Bello audience. What is the focus of your organization in relation to the San Diego Dance community?

Susan Lake: My company, SUSAN LAKE PRODUCTIONS, has always been about bringing to San Diego the best information on dance. 10 years ago, I created the TANGO BALL which served as an arena for not only some of the best tango performers in the world, but became the beginning roots of dance fusion in San Diego. As the Artistic Director for TANGOCENTRIC , a performing tango dance ensemble, I have opened the door to experimental dance using tango as the dramatic center of the choreography. At present I am conducting workshops in San Diego for performers and advanced dance companies who wish to integrate tango into their own particular dance styles.

Ritmo Bello: What are the origins of your production company?

Susan Lake: I am originally from New York City, Where I attended Hartt College of Music. When I came to San Diego I became part owner of Mac Vitties Dance Studio. After selling the studio, I started a dance company called TANGO LAGO. I organized dance classes, brought guest artists to San Diego conducted educational tours to Argentina for the study of tango and eventually originated the longest running event of its kind, the TANGO BALL. At present my company is called SUSAN LAKE PRODUCTIONS and my career has led me into the areas of Producer, Director, Project Developer and lecturer.

Ritmo Bello: A question I often get from my audience deals with identifying what is and is not Tango. What is Tango? How do you know if a piece of music is tango or not?

Susan Lake: The dance tango, has its origins in Argentina. It is the result of immigrants from Europe coming together in a time in history when people were being displaced from the countries they once called home. The dance tells the stories of humanity and its stuggle for an identity.

As far as tango music is concerned, yes there is music that is considered traditional tango music and is commonly identified by the sound of the bandoneon . However, today tango is danced to everything from jazz to symphonic music and electronic sounds.

Ritmo Bello: What is the difference between American and Argentine tango?

Susan Lake: One of the most distinct differences is the use of the legs. Secondly is the embrace or what is commonly known as the dance frame. One of the unique and beautiful aspects of Argentine tango is the use of the "pause", which significantly adds to the drama or "tension" of the dance. It is very typical to watch American style tango and be able identify "set" patterns. In Argentine tango, the combinations are endless and it is common to observe that everyone is creating their own story through the dance itself!

Ritmo Bello: I heard you mention earlier that you have a new performing ensemble called TANGOCENTRIC. Could you tell me a little bit about what that is all about?

Susan Lake: Yes, I started TANGOCENTRIC a year and a half ago. It is an experimental dance ensemble that incorporates different dance styles in the choreography. They have performed locally at several different venues and we are currently working on a unique Tango program.

Ritmo Bello: Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?

Susan Lake: Yes. As I am now an organizer on the San Diego Salsa and Latin Dancing Meetup Group and will continue hosting Tango events for the group’s members. I will also be available to anyone who may have tango questions. You can e-mail me at susanlakeproductions@gmail.com and you can reach me at 888-796-9670.

Ritmo Bello: Susan Lake, Thank you so much for your time and I hope to attend some of your Tango events in the future.

Susan Lake: My pleasure John.  Hope to see you at one of my upcoming events!

There is more to salsa than just the dance. Salsa, of course, is also about the music itself and the salsa recording artists that allow for all of us to continue dancing. Many of these salsa recording artists would never be known without any of the salsa recording labels waiting to discover them. I recently had an opportunity to sit down with salsa recording label Dimelo! Records to discuss this and the efforts they are putting forth to support new salsa recording talent.

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Ritmo Bello : What is the mission and focus of your organization as it pertains to the San Diego Salsa community?

Dimelo! Records : We would like to perform more live gigs in San Diego. We have recently purchased a "Dimelo! Records Van" that will allow all our bands to travel to and from the area more conveniently. We have recently launched a Social networking site www.dimelolife.com which will allow us to interact with more Salseros. We hope to better understand the communities outside of Los Angeles through this medium.

Ritmo Bello: What are the origins of your organization?

Dimelo! Records: Dimelo! Records was founded in 1998 in Los Angeles. It is a subsidiary of Latin Music Entertainment, Inc. a full service music company, which produces, licenses, manufactures, markets and distributes all its own product independently since 1994.

Ritmo Bello : Are there any artists you are currently promoting that you’d like the public to know more about?

Dimelo! Records : Dimelo! Records currently has 3 artists on their roster….Our 1st release was "Salsa De Verda" as performed by Orquesta Tabaco y Ron in 1998, since their first release, "OTR" has released 6 albums on the Dimelo! imprint, including one remix album, and a live recording. Our second addition to the Dimelo! line up, and of Costa Rican decent, was Chino Espinoza y Los Dueńos Del Son. Extremely popular, Chino Espinoza is the most booked band in Los Angeles. His discography includes, "Pura Vida", "Maria", a Salsa Christmas album. Our most recent and third artist is, La Charanga Cubana. Their 2007 freshman release on Dimelo! Records was immediately, nominated for a Latin Grammy for Best Traditional Tropical Album of The Year. They are currently, in the studio vigorously wrapping up their follow up recording.

Ritmo Bello: How does an up and coming Salsa artist sign on with your label?

Dimelo! Records: We are a boutique niche label. We seek bands with a heavy commitment to live gigs. We are always looking for a great opportunity to include a fresh and unique piece to our arsenal of artists. We always welcome new material for review. Please send any information to:

Valerie Guzman

valerie@dimelorecords.com

Marketing Department

Dimelo! Records

10835 Chandler Blvd.

North Hollywood, CA 91601 USA

Yahoo Messenger: dimelolife

AIM: dimelolife

Twitter: dimelolife

Ritmo Bello : Anything else you’d like to share with the general public? I heard you mention the launch of a social networking site, right?

Dimelo! Records: dimelolife.com will be a major commitment for us in 2008. Although still in beta, we plan to officially launch the site in a few months. DimeloLife is not about one record label or a handful of recording artists, or select events. DimeloLife will be ALL things Salsa, every recording artist, every dancer, every promoter, every dance-club, every night - an online Salsa Social Community. DimeloLife will be the place to share videos, audio, photos, blogs/stories with unlimited media uploads…all for free - there will never be a cost. This site will also be the home of Dimelo! TV our new video pod-cast network which will include general interest programming, Salsa videos, and Special Event coverage.

Again, our official launch is around two months away. We would like for you and your readers to beta test the site with us. We are slowly opening it up to a few exclusive friends to get their accounts set up and upload some media before we officially launch. Feel free to invite a few other of your own special friends to setup their accounts, add some pics and video, and chat it up. This invitation will guarantee you "Founding Member" status, which will be rewarded in a unique Dimelo! manner before the end of the year.

Use this link for now to take a sneak peak and set up an account:

http://tinyurl.com/4ndfd4

Ritmo Bello: Is there contact information available to reach you for more information?

Dimelo! Records: Yes, please send any enquiries to:

Valerie Guzman

valerie@dimelorecords.com

Marketing Department

Dimelo! Records

10835 Chandler Blvd.

North Hollywood, CA 91601 USA

Yahoo Messenger: dimelolife

AIM: dimelolife

Twitter: dimelolife

Hope everyone is doing great. Here in San Diego there are a number of salsa dance troupes and companies that cater to very different aspects of salsa dancing. Indeed, some of the local dance companies concentrate their efforts and skills to spreading the dance to particular areas of the dance both philosophically and geographically. I recently had the opportunity to interview with Tony Caligagan of Salsa Inferno Dance about his groups contributions to the local San Diego salsa dance community:

____________________________________________

Salsa Inferno Dance:

Hi John,

Thanks for your support. Keeping salsa alive takes a lot of effort and I am thankful someone like you takes the time to promote salsa in a positive manner.

I have been active in the Salsa Community for more than 14 years. Since my return from New York in 1992 (after dancing on Broadway and meeting Maria my wonderful wife) I’ve taught salsa and Latin dance at UCSD and introduced salsa to thousands of dancers over the years.

Ritmo Bello: What is your Mission and Vision for your dance company?

Salsa Inferno Dance: Our mission for Salsa Inferno Dance has been to create a core of highly skilled trained dance professionals that not only represent salsa as a fun social activity, but also to perform for corporate events and Special events throughout the salsa community. In a way Salsa Inferno is a sister company to Heatwave Productions which has been a leading entertainment provider in San Diego for over 15 years.

Ritmo Bello: What are the origins of your dance troupe?

Salsa Inferno Dance: The origins spawned from our beginning and intermediate salsa classes in Encinitas, UCSD, Culture shock (I started the salsa program at Culture shock), and from local salsa clubs that I promoted. On June 6th we will be celebrating our 9th year of teaching salsa in Encinitas which will be a land mark event. We consistently have 60-80 students in our Friday night classes- rain or shine. The dancers that came on a consistent basis developed into good social dancers. Then we took that core group and started performing about 6 years ago, the group grew slowly but surely. WE now have 3 teams, Salsa Inferno Amateur, Salsa Inferno Pro-team, Salsa Inferno Bachata Performance team.

Ritmo Bello: What sets your group apart from the other local dance troupes?

Salsa Inferno Dance: Because of our dance background and experience as trained dance professionals Maria and I have over 40 years of dance experience (see our biography on www.salsainfernodance.com ) to offer students. Coaching is one of our expertise and we feel we can help anyone improve their dancing and quality of life. We encourage and create a positive environment where we know that if someone applies themselves they will grow not only technically but they will grow in confidence and self esteem. There is a lot more to teaching Salsa than just teaching steps!!!!

Ritmo Bello: I would have to agree with you wholeheartedly on your last point. If somebody wants to participate how can they contact your group?

Salsa Inferno Dance: We are always accepting qualified new dancers to the group. Some people stop dancing for a while and then come back when their life situation allows. Besides being a dance company with high standards we are also the most affordable! We only charge $10.00 per training session and you only pay when you show up. That’s $40.00 a month vs. other team fees of $100 or more

We can be found at www.salsainfernodance.com or tony@salsainfernodance.com . Thanks for all you do John!!

Ritmo Bello: Well, thanks to you Tony and your group for promoting salsa dance here locally in San Diego, California and around the world.

Lesley Washington and Violeta Anderson
Sakara Dance Company
Website: www.sakara.us
(562) 824-5443: Lesley (310) 351-6751: Violeta

Hey everyone,

The San Diego Salsa Festival is coming again to San Diego September 19-21st. The festival brings world renowned performers, instructors, bands and DJ’s to San Diego. I went to the same event last year and it was cool to see not just visitors from out of town in competition, but also to see the local dance talent compete.

Make sure you visit Ritmo Bello for continuous updates about the San Diego Salsa Festival.

You can find out more information about it at their website (if you go there you might want to tell them that it is not COLUMBIA but COLOMBIA - I’m referring to their listing of Ricardo and Viviana from Cali, Colombia as seen here in the picture from the website. This isn’t the first time somebody has misspelled the name of the country much to the disdain of Colombians around the world and here in the U.S. This is apparent looking at articles and others like this on the internet.)

That aside, the festival should be great.