I began my career as a professional modern dancer in 1984 and have had the opportunity to study and explore many disciplines and styles of dance. With my extensive performing and touring schedule I was lucky to meet all types of people from around the world, as well as meet many professionals. This experience contributed to my transformation as a dancer, performer, teacher and of course, most importantly, as a person. My mission is to help celebrate the diversity of cultures in our great city, help reinforce a mosaic of individuals sharing a common interest, as well as what everyone else has to offer to the world.

In Caracas, Venezuela, dancing is a part of daily life, a natural way of expressing one self. I have always been surrounded by salsa, it is a grand part of our culture. As a professional dancer, the rhythm and steps are already ‘in my blood’ and I am always spontaneously creating new moves for my lessons, I am also incorporating the elements of African, Brazilian and native dance, all of which have influenced my culture and career. In South America, there is less concern for steps and choreography. However there is more emphasis on the connection between the music and oneself. You don’t dance with your feet; you dance from your heart. It’s a way of communicating with others.

As salsa has become ‘intellectualized’ as a form of social dance, much of the spontaneity and feeling for dancing has been lost. It is my aim as a teacher to help students bring back that feeling:“To dance from the heart.” This will allow them to feel the rhythms, be in the moment and be less intellectual about it. Resulting in a better connection between themselves, others and ultimately just for the enjoyment that dancing brings. My philosophy gives me the opportunity to teach them to develop confidence, self- esteem, and give them the right tools to help enhance their lives, all through dancing.

Betty Colón