Salsa Queen Productions

Dancing in Abu Dhabi

2010-10-07T20:34:00.000-07:00

AHHHH!!! I am finally settled in Abu Dhabi! After spending some time in Atlanta and not finding a day job I looked into going overseas and here I am! I have been teaching dance lessons with a partner for about a month now. It is amazing how quickly I have become involved in the Salsa scene here.

Starting this Tuesday I will be teaching lessons "Salsa Queen Style" and I am VERY excited about this! It has been a LONG time and I am ready to get started. A colleague if mine will be teaching Zumba following my lesson and I am looking forward to taking part in her class.

The dancing here is GREAT!!! There are so many wonderful leaders with different styles. I have really enjoyed myself so far.

I need to update my website and the information on this page but it will not be today. Today my husband and I are heading to Al Ain to visit my sister!

Updated blog and website to follow!!!

Closing Up Shop in Myrtle Beach

2010-05-11T11:43:00.000-07:00

I have officially closed up shop in Myrtle Beach. After getting married and moving to Charlotte I was hoping to stay involved from a distance. I have two amazing people to thank for collaborating with me Miriam and Johnny. They were so easy to work with and I was able to trust them with so much. We made a good team and I consider myself blessed to have worked with them. It is rare to be involved in business with people who share your vision and that you can trust and count on. I learned this lesson over and over again while trying to get things off the ground in Myrtle Beach.

It never was my intention when I moved to Myrtle Beach to start anything related to dance. I came home from Korea to do my Master's degree and then leave the country once again. It was because of my love of Latin dance that I started trying to get something started in Myrtle Beach where there was nothing going on. I feel we made a good run of it. I also know from the time I was there that folks are living in the area that will be more than happy to fill the space left by Salsa Queen Productions.

It seems that my original intention for returning to the States has happened. I will be moving to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates in August. And yes, there is Latin dancing there and I am currently in the process of getting an Artist Collective started and will be teaching dance there :)

Thank you to everyone who supported the efforts I made in South Carolina. It warms my heart :) I will be back in a few years I am sure of it :)

New Roads

2009-11-08T18:57:00.000-08:00

On September 19, 2009 I married Ryan Sawhill in Charlotte, NC. I am living there now and have tied up loose ends in Myrtle Beach. An amazing instructor has taken over the classes at In Shape Studio and I have heard only good things about him so far. The Latin Dance Nights are still going on at 2001 Nightclub thanks to a wonderful team called Johnny and Miriam!!! Ramon Gil will be giving a workshop this month, continuing with the workshops we started doing over the summer.

It has been an amazing journey and I am happy that I got to experience what I did in Myrtle Beach. I am beginning to think that the community that has been started is in good hands and I can finally let go. It has been quite a transition.

I am looking at this new chapter in my life with excitement and expectation. We shall see where this new road takes me :)

Big Changes for Salsa Queen Productions!

2009-08-25T06:38:00.000-07:00

If you have been a student or friend of mine you will know that my life is one dynamic change after another. Luckily, over this past year these changes have been beautiful. I have had yet another beautiful opportunity for change because I am getting married! In September I will be marrying the perfect guy for me. This brings big changes to my life and for Salsa Queen Productions.

I have run into a number of people who seem to think that because I am marrying and moving to Charlotte that I will not be doing things here at the beach. These people do not know me well. Most folks have no idea how hard I have had to work to get even the parties going successfully every two Saturdays, much less maintain a class roster for dance lessons during the week. Anyone who has created something that has potential would not just walk away. I am one of those people who doesn't just walk away.

I have a very understanding and supportive fiancé. We talk about everything including the work I have done here at the beach. So, I will be teaching lessons Mondays and Tuesdays for 3 weeks every month starting in October. I have a team of people working with me on the Latin Dance Nights so they will continue. I am also going to be involved in two very big, high profile events as a performer and organizer. So, just because I am marrying and moving doesn't mean I am dropping everything.

I am looking forward to being in Charlotte where I can take dance lessons myself and begin expanding what I already know. Anyone who is a teacher and wants to be a good one, knows that you are always learning yourself even as you are teaching. I got into this because I love dance and I love teaching.

Keep your eyes open for the new classes. I am also looking at adding a bit more flavor to the Latin Dance Nights. Be prepared for seeing a lot more of what Latin Dance has to offer!

Information Updated

2009-07-06T19:44:00.000-07:00

I have finally updated the information for the services I offer!!! It sure has become extensive :)

Latin Dance Exploding!!!

2009-06-24T12:53:00.000-07:00

I have been soooo remiss about updating my blog and I am sorry!!! So much has been happening over the past couple of months that it has taken me a moment to catch my breath.

I have just completed my first full month teaching at InShape Studio. It has been AMAZING!!! My class sizes have doubled and in some cases, tripled. I have an ethusiastic, fun, lovely group of students who have moved from beginner to intermediate.

The explosion in my classes was the result of a beautiful article written in the Sun News by Aliana Ramos. I am so grateful to her for approaching me to interview for the article and the word magic she wove.

I have hosted two wonderful parties at 2001 Nightclub and it looks like things will only get better!! My friend and fellow instructor, Christian from Wilimington NC, are joining forces. We will be offering a series of workshops starting in July called the "Summer Passion Series". I will be posting more information for that event soon.

I have to study, pick up a recommendation letter, get to a meeting and teach class so I need to get off the internet.

Thank you for checking in and I will be adding more updates soon!!

Bad News First...Good News To Follow

2009-05-06T04:19:00.000-07:00

FIRST...the bad news

It is with much saddness that I write to inform you that the Caribbean Bar and Grill will be closing its doors. Daphne, the owner, is a wonderful, warm hearted, passionate woman who was willing to give Latin Dance a good chance here on the beach. It was her fearless support and encouragement that made it possible for Latin Dance lovers to have a space here on the Grand Strand. It is with deep gratitude and love that I say, "Thank You" to her.

SECOND...the good news

EXCITING NEWS!!!! When one door closes, another opens and this one is in the form of one of the most well established venues in the Myrtle Beach area, 2001 Nightclub!!! Yes, the Latin dance parties will be moving to 2001Nightclub in early June! I want to do this right so please be patient.
More Information to follow very soon!!!

We're Moving On UP!!!

2009-04-28T05:05:00.000-07:00

I AM SOOOOOOOO EXCITED!! (Can you tell?) I just finished the toughest part of my masters degree and my internship! Now I have the time to devote to Salsa Queen Productions!!! Over the next few weeks there will be a few changes and adjustments. Keep visiting the website and my blog to see updates. If you are not on my mailing list and you want to be, simply write to me and I will add you.

NEW CLASSES, LOCATION, AND SCHEDULE

Location: Caribbean Bar and Grill
Classes: Basic, Beginner, Beginner Intermediate, Intermediate
****more dance style offerings in April****
Schedule: Monday-Thursday 4-7, 1st and 3rd Saturday 11:00am - 5:00pm
Cost:
Pre-registration(monthly) = $8 per class (4, 6, 8 class packages)
Drop In(Daily) = $10

***Stay Tuned For More Updates!!!***

Looking at Expanding

2009-04-14T20:00:00.000-07:00

I am sooo excited because my little enterprise looks like it may be ready for expansion! I am in the process of looking at another location for classes so that I can offer more days, times and class options. I am also ready to expand my marketing plans and have a few things in the works. A lot is happening all at once at the moment as the internship for my masters is coming to an end. There is a lot on my plate but it is all things that I am more than happy to eat :)

SPRING BREAK!!

2009-04-03T04:01:00.001-07:00

I have been waiting for this week for a month! Things have been so hectic and I feel that I have been neglecting my little enterprise. As I stated in the previous post, the conference went extremely well. People were very happy with the teachers, registration, and the dance parties. I realise also that there are some areas that need improvment. I will be doing a better job of scheduling classes. I scheduled too many classes together that people had a hard time choosing between. I also need to make the dance levels more defined. I will be doing the food a little differently in that instead of having a plated dinner Saturday night I will have a formal buffet dinner. I will also be improving my marketing materials and strategy. That is something I definitly could do better. I already have a couple of people ready to work with me on this. Close friends of mine that are alot more business and schmoozing savvy than myself :) (I have no problem admitting to my faults *^^*)

Life is rolling forward and I am in the middle of making some very big decisions but I am a firm believer in the influence of the Divine so I know all will be well.

VIVA SPRING BREAK!!!

Salsa is Growing Here at the Beach!

2009-03-21T22:33:00.000-07:00

Encouraging news!!! The last three weeks has seen a major spurt in the number of people attending the Latin Dance Nights at the Caribbean Bar and Grill as well as the number of students I have at Pepper Geddings. It has been unbelievable! I think the conference last week really helped to boost things here. What a wonderful confirmation that I have been on the right path.

Tonight one guy who doesn't dance but likes to listen to the music said that he wouldn't keep coming if he didn't feel at ease there. I love the atmosphere that is being created. People really feel at home and comfortable.

Collaboration is great as well as perserverance!

A Lovely Success!!

2009-03-18T20:54:00.000-07:00

The Myrtle Beach Latin Dance Conference was a wonderful success. People truly enjoyed themselves. I have TONS of pictures to post and I am already planning for a third one to be held in September!!! I have been pretty slow about putting up pictures and writing a whole lot of information because I am buried under a mountain of ungraded papers and tests that need my attention NOW!! So, once I get my grading done and my classes are comfortably on track, I will be writing so much more. There is alot to say!!!

Amazing, Fantastic, Excellent

2009-03-14T23:49:00.000-07:00

The Myrtle Beach Latin Dance Conference has been a resounding success for a second time!!! I cannot fully communicate how happy I am that it came together so beautifully. The first one was good the second one was even better. Registration was much smoother and people transitioning from class to class was also less confusing. The instructors BROUGHT IT!!!! I chose the best team ever for the community I am trying to build here. All of the instructors were professional, approachable, danced with beginners and were encouraging. My friend Shidaun even taught a "poppin" class which folks LOVED!!! We had Open Stage this time and it went very well. There were just enough acts to keep people there, there was a diversity of artistic talent, and people were all smiles. What a lovely evening. There are four more classes tomorrow then the event is officially over. I think this one will be the true jumping off point for other possibilities. I am happy that God has brought me this far by making the urge in me to create one that I cannot ignore.

Latin Dance Conference in 4 Days!!!

2009-03-10T03:06:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness!! It has been much too long since I last posted on my blog! In just four days the 2nd Myrtle Beach Latin Dance Conference will be happening! I am soooo very excited! The weekend will kick off with a party Friday night at the Caribbean Bar and Grill. Saturday we will have classes at 2001 Nightclub 9:00 until 4:00 then folks will have the opportunity to relax for a few hours before returning for dinner and the OPEN STAGE! Then, another PARTY and DANCING till my feet fall off :) Sunday at 2001, more classes then a beach party, unless it rains ^^;

I may have overextended myself as far ay resources this time but I will have to see. Registration has been extremely slow with very few of my first attendees coming. There a couple of other similar events happening in April so I think folks are spread a bit thin. I wanted my event to be intimate anyway and so I am acheiving that. I just think I may have tried to do too much, like the catered dinner. Alot more local folks are coming out which is perfect, that is what I wanted too.

Every venture that is undertaken brings with it lessons and risks. I am creating a niche for my little project and I think as people become more and more exposed to it, the idea of a more intimate, individual attention focused event will appeal to folks.

I have already decided on the next date: September 11-13.

OHHHH!!! DANCE CLASSES!!

2009-02-05T18:09:00.000-08:00

I am crazy excited to write about my dance classes at Pepper Geddings. More people are coming out! I realise that this is the time that everyone talks about. After vacations and family trips so for a few months growth is seen in dance classes. This is the time to really establish a strong base because during the summer numbers will drop considerably. Everyone seems to be enjoying the classes so my job at the moment is to keep the classes interesting and help to build confidence. I do feel like I have my work cut out for me because the more I am teaching, my beginner/intermediate classes are fine but I have to get those people who are beyond intermediate. I already know that I am comfortable with and am trained to teach up to advanced intermediate but I really have no time to teach the higher level classes at the moment. With school and interning, it would be a bad call for me to add another class. I am planning to call on other friends who are instructors to do workshops for those who are beyond advanced intermediate. I am so happy that this is something I am having to consider. Not a problem but an opportunity that can lead to more opportunities.

Dancing at Caribbean Bar and Grill

2009-02-05T17:48:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday I was pleasantly surprised to see that after 3 weeks we actually had a crowd of people show up! As every party before, we had fun and the music was great, just MORE fun and MORE great this past Saturday! The party is on on Saturday again but this time I will be out of town. I am looking forward to our Valentine's party next Saturday. I can see that the community is really growing and hopefully a strong foundation is being created to support long term activity. There are people who are consistently coming out to dance and more people are following as the word spreads. These small victories just may lead to greater ones.

Conference Flyer...Giving Props!

2009-01-30T22:03:00.000-08:00

My website designer and manager came through again with a phenomenal flyer for promotion. I wanted to try a different route with the flyer this time. I wanted to make it like a formal invitation with quotes about dance rather than a cheesy photo of people "dancing". That will be another one :) Once again, I gave Spike a vision and the info and he came through with something I am proud of.

I hope that you take a look at the flyer. And I REALLY hope that you will come to the conference :)

Invitation-Myrtle Beach Latin Dance Conference

2009-01-30T22:02:00.000-08:00

Dance Classes At Pepper Geddings

2009-01-25T07:55:00.000-08:00

Encouraging Signs of Growth

2009-01-25T07:45:00.000-08:00

Little by little this humble venture is starting to see growth. It has been a very long road trying to build on my own and now with others, a viable latin dance community here in Myrtle Beach. My dance classes at Pepper Geddings are growing and I have a good group of intermediate students who are going to be ready for more advanced skills very soon! I am already considering adding a third dance class during the week for the more advanced students. I am also looking at moving the Salsa Social on Tuesdays from Pepper Geddings to Project Lighthouse. The Saturday night dancing at Caribbean Bar and Grill is having a slow but encouraging start. The music is top notch. The folks who come to dance are fun and bring wonderful energy with them. Even though the crowd is small we are having fun. I think this will grow as long as folks are patient and stick with it. I am hoping that a stronger prescence of my students will start to happen. I am noticing that when my students get to intermediate level they are more comfortable dancing. I have a good group of beginners that I hope will move on to the intermediate classes. Hope. Hope. Hope.

Website Update

2009-01-25T07:43:00.000-08:00

The website has been updated with photos from the January 24th Bootcamp and the second dance party at Caribbean Bar and Grill. Go visit and see if your gorgeous face is posted!!!

Myrtle Beach's Salsa Headquarters

2009-01-17T23:02:00.000-08:00

Caribbean Bar and Grill definitely lived up to its self designated title, Headquaters of Latin Dance in Myrtle Beach. The collaboration between the restaurant, promoter, dj and myself had to be nothing short of Divine. Not only do we all work well together and have a mutual respect for the other but we all have the same passion for seeing Latin Dance grow here.

I was so proud of my students that showed up after the bootcamp for the dance party. They all danced so well and brought their positive and encouraging energy to the Caribbean Bar and Grill.

There were alot of smiles and laughter tonight and I hope that the word gets out that there is a place to dance and have fun.

Myrtle Beach's First Bootcamp

2009-01-17T22:47:00.000-08:00

It all started when I arrived at Project Lighthouse at 11:30 this morning. I taught a 3 hour beginner bootcamp and a two hour intermediate bootcamp. The beginner camp was interrupted alot with phone calls due to folks being lost. Despite all of the interruptions the class went well I saw improvement from the start of class to the end. The intermediate class had no interruptions so I was able to really focus on the participants. Although the day was long the improvement in movement and confidence makes the tiredness in my body worth it. It was also heartening to see the students' connections to one another become stronger.

Saturday Nights in Myrtle Beach!

2009-01-16T06:56:00.000-08:00

Click on the photo to get a larger view.

A Website Success

2009-01-15T12:19:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday quite a few folks showed up for my beginner Latin Dance class. A majority of them came from the intro class so I knew their faces. One person came to the door and as I greeted him he said, "You are Salsa Queen?" and a little amused, I said "Yes". At the end of the classes he came up to me and said, "I found this class by searching on the internet and your website came up."

This was the most awesome news for me to hear! This means that not only are people searching online but the website is professional to the point that people can find me! This was the objective but to meet someone who used it was a confirmation.

Dance Classes At Pepper Geddings

2009-01-15T12:05:00.000-08:00

This past week was the kick off of Pepper Geddings' "Choose to Lose" 3 month weight loss and health promotion program. I give 30 minute intro classes on Monday and Wednesday. So far I have classes of 60-70 people! The first class was in a small room and we were PACKED in there! Last night, the second class, I was moved to the gym where 60 or more people had ALOT more room to move. Some folks from the intro class are showing up for my beginner class and some of those are coming to my intermediate class. I am hoping that this is just a small trickle before a river! It would be wonderful to get a strong Latin Dance community here. I am so fortunate that I get to work in cooperation with a city agency that does so much for the community and is also helping to develop this fledgling community!

Dancing on Saturdays!

2009-01-12T10:02:00.000-08:00

Last week I had an amazing meeting with a few key players who are interested in helping Latin Dancing expand here on the Grand Strand. Everyone had a particular skill r resource that everyone else could use. By combining all of our efforts I think we will see some real growth! One thing that came out of the meeting is to change the night for dancing. Caribbean Bar and Grill will host the event on Saturdays instead of Fridays. We now have a DJ, a promoter, a venue, and a dance instructor...all pieces that when put together, make a strong group effort.

We will have a kick off party on Valentine's Day, A Valentine's Dance!,February 14 :)If you want to come dancing before then, Caribbean Bar and Grill will be happy to have you on Saturdays.

Latin Dance Conference Update

2009-01-12T09:16:00.000-08:00

Last week I officially opened registration for the March Latin Dance Conference. With the confirmation of accomodations at The Breaker's Resort, I was able to send the registration to folks from out of town. The Breakers is a beautiful resort with a reputation for excellence. They were able to give me amazing rates so when people come it will be like being on a dancing vacation. I am waiting now on the caterer's menu and a couple of instructors'information and all will be complete!

Choose to Lose

2009-01-11T21:16:00.000-08:00

On Saturday I participated in the "Choose to Lose" health fair at Pepper Geddings. I was the last instructor to do a demo and although most of the 800 people who came were gone, I had an ethusiastic and fun group of people come up and take a demo lesson. It was ALOT of fun! People were cheering and high-fiving each other and smiling. Even the people who didn't have the courage to join were trying to follow from a distance. I will be teaching an intro class as part of the "Choose to Lose" weight loss and wellness campaign. I look forward to possibly having some cross over into my regular classes.

Salsa Queen Is Back In Town

2009-01-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

I have been home less than a week and already I have hit the ground running. I have been having meetings everyday with one person, persons, or another regarding different aspects of the events I am planning.

I am very excited for next Saturday's Boot Camp!!! I will be putting ads in the paper tomorrow.

There have been two classes at Pepper Geddings for the new year. They have been going well so far. I am very happy with the progress of the students. I hope that more people will start coming out soon!

As usual, I will keep you posted as new developments unfold.

New Years Eve in Charlotte

2009-01-07T19:52:00.000-08:00

If you are into Latin Dancing and you weren't at the Salsa New Year's Eve party in Charlotte you missed a fabulous night! Rodrigo and Wendy Jimenez, the dynamic duo who make up Charlotte Salsa Dance Company, put on a truly lovely event. There was a DJ as well as a live band and they were BAD!!!(meaning really good)

My friend Milton came from Greenville and I had a wonderful time getting to dance with him. The crowd was fairly cool and the dancing was on point. I am already looking towards next year!!!

Alhambra Palace: Dance in Elegance

2009-01-07T19:45:00.000-08:00

I finally got to go dancing in Chicago!!! Of course I am writing this a week later but let me tell you, I STILL remember the elegant surroundings of Alhambra Palace, the amazing music, and the HUGE dance floor. I had a great time dancing. It was very inexpensive to get into this posh looking place and the crowd was pretty cool too. The dancers were pretty good. I met one guy in particular who was a really nice dance partner, not too crazy but very smooth. I found that even though I was in Chicago the dancing was not much different from what I have experienced everywhere else I have been. Some of the guys got really spin happy when they figured out I knew how to do multiple turns and spins. I actually got bored! Overall though, the dancing was very fun and the music was top notch. This is a "MUST GO TO" if you are in Chicago.

Annoucing Services, New Classes and Events

2008-12-26T08:02:00.000-08:00

Since I have been on vacation and have been inside sick most of it, I have had ALOT of time to think.

I decided that one way to build up to the Latin Dance Conference in March is to offer Latin Dance bootcamps. I will be offering them in January and in February. A 3 hour beginner boot camp and a 2 hour intermediate boot camp.

I will also be updating my new website with a new services: private lessons and event dance choreography/instruction (weddings, parties etc).

I also want to remind folks that Myrtle Beach has a Latin Dance spot on Friday night, Caribbean Bar and Grill from 8-11.

Disappointed In Chi-Town

2008-12-26T07:58:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately I have been sick most o fmy visit to Chicago! I had hoped when I got here that I would be able to take dance classes also but then found out that none of the studios are teaching classes this week! I ALMOST went dancing on on Tuesday but went to a stop on the EL that had the same name but was WAY out of the way. It was so late and I was so hungry that I just went back to my brother's place! *sigh*

Tonight I am definitely going out. Now that I know where the spot is I will not get lost. I am also no longer sick so I am crazy ready to get my Latin dancing groove on!!!

Salsa Queen Gettin' BLOGGED!!!

2008-12-17T16:51:00.000-08:00

Check out this wonderful write up on Spike's blog regarding my new website!!

http://myrtlebeachwebdesign.wordpress.com/2008/12/16/salsaqueenproductionscom-latin-dance-site-by-myrtle-beach-website-designer/

Tearing Up Toucan Reef

2008-12-16T19:49:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I headed to Toucan Reef to get in some Charleston flava Salsa before going to Chicago this week. I went with some apprehension because the last time I went there it was less than amazing. This past weekend I had so much fun I didn't stop smiling the whole night. The dancers were great and the crowd was just plain FUN! I always love the music that DJ Luigi plays there...he knows how to move the crowd. Nothing but fun this past weekend. Chicago, here I come!!!!

Salsa Queen Productions Website

2008-12-14T14:10:00.000-08:00

I am VERY HAPPY to announce that Salsa Queen Productions now has an official WEBSITE!!! Many thanks to Spike for this amazing website! To check it out click on the link to the right under "Salsa Queen Productions' Website"!!!

Hot-lanta's "Sanctuary"

2008-12-08T18:39:00.000-08:00

Another weekend of dancing in Atlanta left me extremely tired and happy. Friday night my friend Anthony and I went to "Sanctuary" and had a BLAST!!! There were quite a few amazing dancers there. I danced a beautiful Bachata set with a guy whose name I didn't get. He was a great leader and had perfect rhythm...wonderful combination!! The highlight though was that I met two guys who absolutely LOVED dancing and playing when they danced. I had a great time and I think for the first time EVER I had to insist on sitting down. They had me dancing non-stop. It started out with them passing me between the two of them and the group grew to five! It was the best time I have had dancing since I have been back in the States. It is rare to meet folks who love dancing for the dance and not because they are trying to show off or are so focused on doing the steps just right that the fun is sucked out of it.

Once again, great dance floor and awesome music. The staff is crazy cool too cuz I left my organizer there and received a phone call from one of the managers. It was a trip though because he had to look through it to get my information and saw all of the Korean writing and my subway map of Seoul. Turns out that the manager is Korean! He said he was worried that I was leaving town and he would have had to mail it to me :) Hahahaha! I explained to him that I was in the States and could, in fact, come and pick it up that night. I think he was so confused. He was shocked like most people are when I tell them that Latin dancing is really big in Korea...Seoul is like the mecca for Latin dancing in Asia.

Another great weekend. I leave for Chicago next week. I am already planning my dance class schedule(as a student) and my dance schedule!! hehehehehe! I will head down to Charleston this weekend before leaving. I haven't been to Toucan Reef in a minute!

Myrtle Beach Latin Dance Conference

2008-12-02T15:53:00.000-08:00

I am now starting to put together the instructors, schedule and events for the March Latin Dance Conference. There is going to be a great line up of instructors at this conference, returning ones and new ones. I am adding a couple of new things and working on improving existing events. The website will be ready for viewing on December 15th!!!

Heading to Chi-Town

2008-12-02T15:51:00.000-08:00

Well, if you keep up with my blog you will find this information helpful...I will be out of town for about two weeks. I will be in Chicago visiting family, friends, taking dance classes, dancing, and truly relaxing. I will keep this blog updated though!!!

Hot Latin Dancing to Bring in the New Year!!!

2008-12-02T15:44:00.000-08:00

JUST CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO MAKE IT LARGER :)

Dancing, Turkey, and Toads

2008-12-02T15:31:00.000-08:00

Over the Thanksgiving Break I went to Charlotte to spend the holiday with my friend Shidaun and his family. Before I left Myrtle Beach I already had two possible places to go to for dancing :)

Friday night I went to a very nice venue called Latorre in downtown Charlotte with my friend Janeen. I had another reason for going, to meet a woman named Wendy. I got connected with her when I planned the first Latin Dance Conference but we had never gotten to meet. Friday night she and her husband teach dance lessons at Latorre before the dance party gets going. What a warm, beautiful couple. They are planning the New Year's Salsa Event in Charlotte and I am definitely going to be there :)

My first dance was a beautiful Bachata set with an awesome dancer! Bachata is my very favorite dance and I am sooo happy when I get to dance with someone who knows what they are doing :) Wendy's husband also danced Bachata and Salsa with me and that was a great experience. He is a wonderful lead who knows how to play a little!

Latorre had a nice dance floor but it also has a glass window built into it so you had to be careful. The music was pretty good but the Bachata songs kept skipping :(
I did have friends tell me that it is not a good late arrival place if you are wanting to dance because it gets packed and the dancers are usually gone. This wasn't the case last Friday but folks were probably home with Turkey-itis.

Sunday night I was back in Myrtle Beach and taught a dance lesson at Senior Frogs. A few people that were already there came to learn. I was surprised how many folks were there! Two of my students came, Spike and Tasha, THANK YOU!!!! We are still working on getting things going there and I think, like everything else, it is going to take a little time.

Birthday/Dancing Weekend in Atlanta!

2008-12-02T15:13:00.000-08:00

Two weekends ago I went to Atlanta to be with friends and to celebrate my birthday. I was a wonderful weekend and of course I went dancing!

I started out dancing Friday at The Sanctuary with my dear friend and mentor Anana and her husband and a new friend Anthony. It was a great night of dancing. The dance floor was PERFECT and the music a nice variety of merengue, bachata,Puerto Rican and Cuban Salsa. I don't think I stopped dancing from the first moment my feet hit the dance floor. The guys had no problem asking a new lady to dance :) The location looked like it was actually a restaurant that held a dance on certain nights of the week and was very chic. The only draw back was that parking was scarce and what was available you had to pay for.

Saturday night started out really rocky but ended on a very high note. I met up with a few close friends at Loca Luna. There was a live Salsa BAND!!! Oh man, now that was electric!! Not alot of people came there to dance but me and my crew most certainly did! Anthony and I danced a lot but most folks there didn't dance at all. Me and my friends moved up to the front of the stage for the band's last set. My best friend Asali and I used to dance in a dance group when we were younger and brought back the past by starting a dance move and following each other. Of course it was all Latin dance movement but not in couples. At some point I looked behind me and saw that the majority of the people, 50-60, were following us!! It was amazing! The band really fed off the crowd's energy and by the end of the set the female singer who was Cuban was dancing in front of the stage. She put us all to shame! An phenomenal dancer!

The place itself is not a spot for dancers to go to. Most folks seemed clueless that people were dancing so Anthony spent a lot of time getting me out of harm's way. The floor is concrete so not so great for turns. The highlight was the band. I love dancing to live Salsa music. Needless-to-say, I walked out of Loca Luna elated!!

Pepper Geddings Classes in the Paper!!!

2008-11-25T06:46:00.000-08:00

Sun News, The (Myrtle Beach, SC)
2008-11-24
Section: news
Edition: TSN
Page: C1

Dancers find spice in salsa

Need to slip a little spice into your step?

Area dance classes have you covered.

You can study salsa dancing at 7 p.m. Monday and Wednesday nights at Pepper Geddings Recreation Center in Myrtle Beach.

This class runs through early December, then a new class begins.

Senor Frogs: Lesson 2

2008-11-25T06:41:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed teaching this past Sunday! The staff got very involved in the lesson and there were a few couples there. I had a great time! One thing I do realise is that I need to come up with a fast, kinda of canned, lesson that is high energy, focuses on the basics and gets people involved. I will be looking at new music and having a couple of different routines just for a 20~30 minute lesson.

I hope my students begin to come out. I am talking with one of the managers about the possibilty of changing it to a week night which would be much better. One of my students from Pepper Geddings mentioned how that would be better. We'll see!!

First Night at Senor Frogs

2008-11-17T14:17:00.000-08:00

This was my first time ever teaching in a bar. I must say that I really enjoyed it...well except for the wierd drunk guy who kept bothering me during the lesson. Other than that, the night was fun. Very few people were there though and once the lesson was done folks left so no one stayed for just dancing. Everyone enjoyed the lesson and now more folks need to come out and support it.

The guys that work there and manage the place were so accomodating and friendly. They really made me feel at home and further drove home the fact that I need to learn Spanish!!!

We'll see what happens next Sunday!

San Juan..Salsa Cabana HOTTNESS!!!

2008-11-17T14:09:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I had a great time out with one of my students, Lorraine and her boyfriend! It is only because she asked me that I went to Columbia this weekend. I called a friend while we were on our way and he told me that Old San Juan was opening a new restaurant and was having a party. Man, when we showed up the place was packed with Salseras and Salseros and many of them I knew! A few folks who were at the first Latin Dance party were there. You talk about having a great time!!! With some coxing I got Lorraine out on the floor and was very proud to see her doing so well dancing after only a month and a half!!!

Then just about everyone who was there headed on over to Salsa Cabana where more good times were to be had.

Overall it was a really nice night out with some really good people. I hope to meet more people to really expand my circle of aquaintances.

Good on you Lorraine! I made me proud!!!

Senor Frogs

2008-11-12T11:14:00.000-08:00

Exciting NEWS!!! There is now another place in Myrtle Beach to go Latin Dancing!

Senor Frogs has been hosting Latin Dance parties on Sundays for about a month. I didn't realise this until I ran into a stranger at Starbucks and we got to talking. Now one of the managers and I will be working on getting folks out on Sunday. As time passes, if it looks like another night may be better, we may move it.

So, Sundays @ Senor Frogs (Broadway at the Beach). No Cover. 10:00~10:30 Dance Lesson. 10:30~12:00 dancing!!! What a great way to end one week and head into another!!!

Some Developments

2008-11-10T19:40:00.000-08:00

Tonight's dance class was wonderful!! I had 4 new students in the beginner class. I am looking forward to Wednesdays class!

I also went by Senor Frogs. I met a guy at a Starbuck's before class. He mentioned that he has wanted to go by Senor Frogs on Sunday because they apparently have dance nights on Sundays. Then, after class, two of the new students were talking with me and one mentioned Senor Frogs. I figured two random people in one night talking about this place was enough for me to head over and talk to the manager.

Well, I am really excited about our conversation. It seemes that this morning he and his PR person were discussing the fact that they needed a dance instructor! So I will be talking with him at length about supporting their efforts. We'll have to see how it geos.

Tomorrow I will meet with Gerry from 2001 to discuss this March's Latin Dance Conference. I have already gotten emails from people who attended the first one! Man, I am sooooo excited!

Mink Bikini Bar..A Place to Dance

2008-11-10T15:29:00.000-08:00

Well, I confirmed with the woman behind the dance nights at Mink Bikini Bar that there will be dancing there on Saturdays!!!

Location: Mink Bikini Bar 1361 Stockholder Ave. Myrtle Beach, SC
Contact: Wanda- 843 685 3605

Now I have a decision to make! Do I go to Charleston or stay here? I think it will be here :)

Dancing in Columbia

2008-11-09T14:27:00.000-08:00

On Saturday night I went dancing at Salsa Cabana in Columbia, South Carolina. This is probably one of the best clubs I have been to for dance floor size, proper floor for latin dancing (turns and such), and great music. There is a variety of places that people can sit, if you get there before the crowd arrives. Parking can be a problem but I have never had trouble finding a spot, it just may be on the other side of the complex the club is in. It is $5 to get in before 12. The folks working the door are fairly friendly, especially if you are a regular.

I usually go dancing on Friday nights. This was my second time going on a Saturday night. The difference for me was very apparent. I usually go dancing alone. (I don't have friends who are into dancing like I am and I am single.) On Friday's I rarely have had trouble finding someone to dance with or being asked to dance. Last night was just plain painful. Lots of couples. I used to go Swing Dancing and I was used to people being in couples but knowing that when you go social dancing you dance with other folks too. This is an ongoing compliant in the Latin Dance community, the hesitancy for people in couples to dance with others. To make things far more complicated are the cliques, which is actually worse if I think about it. Folks who arrive in their groups of friends and only dance with each other. This echoes my observations when I went dancing in Charleston. On the one hand I can understand folks in couples not wanting to dance with others but the cliques are counter to what it means to social dance, in my opinion.

I am hoping that as things begin to develope here in Myrtle Beach I can create a community that is more welcoming and warm. If that is the reputation Myrtle Beach becomes known as alot of people will come here dancing just to be somewhere where they spend their gas, money, and time knowing it was an all around great time.

Inquiries

2008-11-09T14:22:00.000-08:00

Over the past two days I have received several inquiries as to whether there is anything going on here for latin dance nights. I wish I could give folks a definite "YES" but as of now I can say there is not much going on. I was given an idea by a student after class last week to contact Abuelo's. Now that is a great idea. I know that other latin dance communities have partnered with a restaurant to get dance nights going. It makes sense because the restaurant will make money whether dancers come or not. It actually just expands their business and gets them more covrage. If I can find a DJ this just may work out.

Dance Classes In the News!!!

2008-11-03T18:31:00.000-08:00

Tonight's Beginner class was small but very productive. I will be distributing flyers more widely to hopefully drum up more people for the beginner's class.

Now for the exciting news! The Sun News will be coming to do a story on the class this Wednesday!!! This has the potential to help the Latin dance community grow! Please come out and show your support.

Dancing in Charleston

2008-11-02T19:12:00.000-08:00

I went down to Charleston last night to go dancing at a spot off East Bay called "Toucan Reef". I have been there a number of times. The d.j. is top notch and plays a womderful blend of music. The restaurant turned club is located right on the water and there is a large plate glass window overlooking the harbor. The dance floor is not a proper one so if you have dance shoes the soles will be ruined.

My biggest compliant about the place is how cliquish people are, especially the "good" dancers. They all stick together and only dance with one another. They occupy one space, right by the dj and they stay there all night having their own private party at a public event.

This type of behavior is true across the board no matter where you are. I have danced in clubs all over Korea, Australia, Japan, China, Atlanta, Greenville, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, Wilmington and Charleston. My greatest regret is that the atmosphere in most of these places can be intimidating for beginners, not only because so many people are dancing well but also because they feel like they have to "good" to dance. I have yet to go dancing in South or Central America but from the way one of my brothers who spent some time in Central America talks about it, the atmosphere is accepting and warm.

This is what I am hoping will be created in Myrtle Beach as we develope our dance community. I would love for Myrtle Beach to be known as the place to go not only to get in some good dancing in but also to feel at home and included.

Halloween Party Review

2008-11-01T12:59:00.000-07:00

I arrived at the party last night around midnight. I really enjoyed the blend of music and the atmosphere. I notice that the more I show up the more comfortable people seem to get with me. Around 12:30 there were two performances. One was an African dance and drum group which was BEAUTIFUL. The group was all females from the same family. I thought the inclusion of this performance in the event really served as a reminder of the roots of latin music and dance. They are a blend of African and Native traditions. After the drum and dance group finished a muscician from Ecuadore played traditional music. It was truly a lovely experience. I look forward to doing more events with Wanda and Dorita. I think we are of like minds when it comes to promoting Latin culture in Myrtle Beach.

Come and dance Halloween Night AWAY!!!

2008-10-30T18:09:00.000-07:00

Getting Started

2008-10-29T07:14:00.000-07:00

I think it is important for me to address an issue that exists with getting Latin Dance events started here in Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Beach is a tourist town. Most business owners here have spent years benefitting from the fast money that came with the thousands of summer tourists. With the economy going under and gas prices being so high, many businesses felt it this past summer. Across the board, when you talk to people, you are finding out that numbers are WAY down. This is further irritated by the reality that anyone trying anything new here is contending with businesses that appeal to golfers, shaggers, and young people who are experiencing freedom for the first time.

Latin dancing is not something that most folks think about when they come to Myrtle Beach. I started trying to get something started back in May and although I have run into some very encouraging, supportive people, the numbers are not large enough for a business to commit to seeing things through. So, I ask that folks be patient. The cancellation of the Latin Dance party at 2001 was simply an opportunity to really start looking at ways to combine efforts. I did not see it as a negative thing but rather that things are what they are.

I will be focusing my efforts here in Myrtle Beach rather than trying to bring in folks from other parts of the State. When we get something consistent and solid happening here people will drive 2 or more hours to dance. Believe me, I do it.

So, having said this, I am now going to be working with a couple of people here who have a following too. We will be combining our efforts to make the Latin dance community grow here in Myrtle Beach. If you stick around ,believe me, you just may become part of making history!!!

2008-10-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

Some Changes

2008-10-26T05:19:00.000-07:00

I am considering some changes. The Latin Dance Night at 2001 Nightclub was cancelled suddenly due to management practices. There are no bad feelings at all but when I am putting my name out there it is not good to have events cancelled with no way to notify people. So I will no longer host Latin Dance parties at 2001 because things are too unpredictable.

The amazing thing is that I was able to find out about a club here that is a Latin Dance club and has no other genres of music or obligations to any other group of people. It is called "Mink Bikini Bar". The music was great and the crowd pretty much 20 somethings and older. The only problems I could forsee is that the dance floor is small but it does have a GREAT surface and there are very few places to sit if you want to rest your dancing feet. Other than these two things I found the atmosphere pretty cool and the price is $5!

I plan to still utilize 2001 for the Latin Dance Conference because it is perfect for that kind of event. As for dancing on the regular, it is looking like Mink is it! I will be talking with the owner before I post the club's information here but I plan to have it changed pretty soon!

Yeah for expanding collaborations!!!!

Exciting Updates!!!

2008-10-23T08:17:00.000-07:00

Things have been so busy and hectic that I have been remiss in updating my web blog!

* Come on Out to this Saturday's Latin Dance Party!!!! It will be at 2001 Nightclub. More information is available to the right of this blog.

* The first ever Myrtle Beach Latin Dance Conference was AMAZING!!! I will be posting pictures and participant comments very soon. I am now busy planning the SECOND Latin Dance Conference for MARCH!!!

* I am now teaching classes at Pepper Geddings Recreation Department in Myrtle Beach!This was an unexpected and very welcome development. The information on the classes is to the right of my blog.

* ALSO!!! I am teaching dance classes on campus at Coastal Carolina University on Sundays. If you are a Coastal student it is free for you. If you are not a student you will need to inquire about the cost at the front desk in the Willims Brice Gymnasium.

You talk about busy!!! I can't wait to get my photos and videos uploaded! Thank you for checking out my blog! I hope to see you at one of the Salsa Queen events!!!

Latin Dance Party

2008-08-06T10:16:00.000-07:00

The next Latin Dance Party is approaching and it is looking to be quite the event. Our first night had a few bumps, but the experience of putting it together is going to make this next event absolutely AMAZING! If you plan on attending, be sure to RSVP so that you can get in for free.

Latin Dance Conference

2008-07-25T10:15:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone! The plans for the Latin Dance Conference here in Myrtle Beach is really coming together. There will be workshops for beginners-intermediate dancers. Additionally, advanced dancers will have the opportunity to learn some new moves from some amazing instructors. Please visit the conference website here for more information.

New Latin Dance Beginner Series starts NOW!

2008-07-15T16:05:00.000-07:00