(Virtual) Bachata/Salsa Dance Scene- COVID19 Edition
Finding ways to fulfill my need to dance during the social distancing era has been difficult. Pre-COVID times, I would dance 3–5 times a week at salsa, bachata, and kizomba socials all over Los Angeles. For the time being, this is no longer possible.
I still dance 3–5 times a week…in my living room. This also means I can take classes from leading dance teachers in the East Coast, and elsewhere in the world.
Dance teachers all over the globe have taken up the task of inviting us to a virtual dance space- one in which we can begin and improve upon our basic steps (they are so important!), advanced footwork, and styling.
Below are some of the online dance classes I have checked out- each have their respective links. The schedules/calendars of each class or series of classes varies so I do not include them here. This list is by no means complete nor comprehensive- I welcome any additions ya’ll might have :).
- Alex and Desiree (NY-based)- both amazing traditional bachata teachers. Their technical and footwork teachings are always on point, and I always learn a new combination of footwork from these teachers. Link: https://www.academicnetworkofdance.com/collections/all/live-classes
- Tina Cavicchio (Boston-based) is an amazing urban bachata teacher, who has a keen eye for musicality, and body movement. Tina has classes here and there that are usually more affordable but has them less frequently- and they are usually announced via Instagram. Tina’s classes are always very welcoming and affirming to all levels. Link: https://www.instagram.com/tinacavicchio/
- In Lak’ech Dance Academy (Bay area) is a queer-led dance academy that offers a plethora of dance classes. They also organize the annual Queer Latin Dance Festival in the Bay area. Their leaders are always challenging the gender binaries often found in dance, which is so critical to create inclusive and affirming dance spaces. Link: inlakechdance.eventcombo.com
- Fausto Felix (NY-based) is an amazing bachata teacher. I am always challenged by the advanced footwork in these classes, and I always get a great cardio workout from them. Link: https://linktr.ee/Faustofelix
- Dancing Diaspora Collective (LA -based). Dancing diaspora offers a variety of dance classes all on a sliding scale. Their virtual class spaces are always intentional, and their playlist is always on point. Definitely a good idea for dance movements that heal.Link: https://linktr.ee/dancingdiaspora
- Anderson and Brenda have a great series of free Zouk practice videos on Youtube. I do 1–2 of these every week and they are so relaxing in the morning- it reminds me a very light and flowy yoga dancing session. Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAh_W_Tk0Zc
- For a total immersion, check out the upcoming virtual 3-day dance festival with salsa, bachata, kizomba, and zouk classes (July 31-August 2, 2020). One of their options includes getting access to all video recordings. Link: https://www.dcbachata.com/
Connecting with my dancing self has been an immense source of joy and healing, and I can’t imagine my life without dance. Hope you have also been able to engage with your sources of joy during this pandemic.
Saludos y Abrazos,
Josefina
