I come from a creative family, and have always had involvement in the Arts.  Aside from growing up on MTV, however, I never took an interest in music. Only after attending Art school, and starting to listen to different bands and groups through friends, did I begin to develop my own music library. At the same time, a wave of Latin artists and sounds began flooding the radios.  I fell in love with the vibe, started listening to Salsa, and immediately felt an energy that made me want to move. Not knowing how to move to the music frustrated me, so I started taking lessons. Unfortunately, the dance studio I chose did not fit my style, which caused me to feel immediately discouraged.

Shortly after graduating and working a dull 9-5 job, I moved to NYC, eager to leave my small town and become part of something bigger. My first year in the city brought me many friends and fun experiences, but I wanted something more. I decided that I would try to take another stab at learning how to dance Salsa. Four private lessons later with Cynthia, “La China”, got me hooked. I started taking group lessons and styling workshops, going out social dancing, and eventually became part of Cynthia’s student dance team. She gave me exposure and motivation towards something that never crossed my mind or that thought I would be capable of doing: performing.

At the same time, I befriended “Milk Shake”, a prior PCD member. I tagged along with her to a PCD class two years ago, and since then have become a member myself.  After being asked to audition, and chickening out the first time, I went to see PCD’s Que Rico Mambo showcase.  The show made me realize that, despite the fear, I knew that I wanted to be part of the company. That Spring I did the most nerve-wracking thing I’ve ever done. I auditioned for Piel Canela’s Dance Company, and I have since become part of the Senior Team. I’m happy to be part of the Piel Canela family, as it has filled the void I once felt before moving to NYC.  I came to NYC to become part of something bigger, and Piel Canela has certainly helped fulfill that goal.

When I’m not dancing, I spend my days working as a Graphic Designer, playing soccer in local city leagues and tournaments, and keeping up to date with the Art scene by gallery hopping and attending museum exhibits. I’m proud of what I do as well as my artistic talent, but there is something really special about telling people that I’m also a Salsera.