July 7, 2002

What kind of dancer are you? Ballroom or Salsa!

A little over a year and a half ago, I entered the Salsa world from ground zero. I have come across different kinds of dancers. Some stand by the sidelines, thinking about if they should take lessons, a year and a half later, they are still thinking. Then there are some dancers, they took some lessons, perhaps from a professional or from friends, they began to dance occasionally, on weekends, perhaps once in while during the week. They are happy doing simple steps, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 5, 6, 7, 8, 1, 2, 3, 4. There are also dancers, you see them in workshops, classes, two three times a week, they seem to be everywhere. First they look mechanical, stiff, ballroom salsa dancers, weekend girls or boys laugh at them as it makes them feel superior. These dancers persist, they begin to develop body rhythm, and then musicality. As music pulsates into a fierce torrent, as does their movement, when the music ebbs and wain into a dreamlike trance, the steps change, 1, 3, 5 and 7. The texture of the dance changes.. Girls and boys, those that understand, begin to ask them for a dance. What kind of a dancer are you? Do you really understand or are you a close minded dancer happy in your ignorant bliss! The ballroom salsa dancer dances on into a world that you wouldn't understand as your vision is blurred by negativity and a lack of fire and passion for excellence. Be happy with your 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8...

You wouldn't understand it! Richard

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July 3, 2002

Rose, I love your website, very well designed and easy to navigate.

I love the discussion forum and would like to suggest a subject regarding one of my pet peeves. "Students who try to teach other students in class during the class." Everyone hates it except the person doing it. It is distracting and upsetting, humiliating and lots more. I miss what the instructor is saying and I did not ask for the other students advice which is often incorrect and why doesn't the person concentrate on his own dancing. We are in class to learn but those annoying people are hindering our learning. I find usually the ones given advice are the worse dancers.

I would love to hear comments on this maybe, some of these people will recognize themselves and would stop being so annoying.

NY On2 Salsera

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July 3, 2002 -- Babaluu TO vs. Babalu NY

Last Wednesday night (June 26) I was at my favourite TO salsa spot, Babaluu, for my favourite salsa night of the week, Latin Roots, hosted by one of my favourite TO salsa DJs, Alvaro C.

The following night I was in NY and decided to check out their Babalu and DJ Elvira, who also plays classic salsa tracks. This was my first salsa trip to NY and I was eager to check this place out because I had heard so much about it.

Here's a brief rating comparison on several criteria I feel are important to a complete salsa night. Keep in mind that I have been going to Babaluu TO for 4 years and was at Babalu NY for only one night and my judgments are limited somewhat. However, I consider myself to be a keen salsero and will try to be as objective as possible. I am also only comparing Babalu NY's Thursday to Babaluu TO's Wednesday (in my opinion it's the only night worth going to Babaluu!).

#1 Layout (club size, size of dance floor, bar locations, etc.)

Babaluu TO is intimate (bordering on uncomfortably small if it's packed), the bars don't get in the way of the dancers and, for a small club and for the most part, the non-dancing traffic is kept to the periphery of the dance floor. For a small place, the dance floor is a good size and extends throughout the entire bar (i.e. no carpet!). So you can dance anywhere there is room (if it's packed, forget about it). I can really move on the floor here although it's a bit sticky depending on how recently the floors have been refinished.

Bablu NY is much bigger than it's TO counterpart and has two levels which are elevated from the main dance floor. The main bar is at the back of the third elevated level. There is a stage at the front of the main dance floor (more or less the same size as the stage at Lula Lounge). There is plenty of room to dance on any of the levels even though the 2nd and 3rd levels have tables. The floor really moves! It's not as slick as the clourthouse floor but much smoother than Babaluu TO. There are plenty of places to sit as well (being a bigger club this can be acheived) including various couches and boothes. It's not as intimate though and the DJ booth is up and away from the dancers and patrons. I like the DJ to be in the thick of things as it makes for a more personal experience.

#2 The DJs:

DJ Alvaro plays the best classic salsas on vinyl. His song selection is the best in the city (if you love classics, which I do). I think his mixing and turntable skills are excellent and I can't wait to get a copy of Latin Roots 4.

DJ Elvira doesn't mix. She plays an entire song and lets it stop completely (silence) before starting another song. I don't like this at all because it breaks up my flow and I think it's boring. Her song selection is excellent though (also classic salsas, also vinyl).

#3 The dancers:

The great dancers in TO (most of whom frequent Latin Roots) are just as good as the better dancers that I saw June 27th at Babalu NY. A lot of TO dancers dance NY style and they do it with style, grace and a lot of skill. There is more to salsa than NY style though, and TO expemlifies this. The variation and diversity among the dancers at Latin Roots is greater than at Babalu NY, where everyone dances EXACTLY THE SAME. Beleive me, my partner and I got a lot of looks from the regulars (you can spot them a mile away!) but we did our own thing and had a great time.

Scores: Layout - Babaluu TO = 5/5 Babalu NY = 5/5
Size - Babaluu TO = 3/5 Babalu NY = 4/5
Floor - Babaluu TO = 4/5 Babalu NY = 5/5
Intimicy - Babaluu TO = 5/5 Babalu NY = 3/5
DJ Alvaro C. = 5/5 DJ Elvira = 3/5
Dancers Quality - Babaluu TO = 5/5 Babalu NY = 5/5
Dancers Diversity - Babluu TO = 5/5 Babalu NY 3/5

Overall = Babaluu TO = 32/35 Babalu NY = 28/35

Edge to Latin Roots at Babaluu TO overall. Alvaro's sets kick ass and so does the club. I think TO is a great salsa city but I'm biased and still have a lot of traveling to do. Josh Kahn

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July 2, 2002 -- Pictures

Hi Rose, I view your salsa web weekly, and enjoy the updates. Keep up the great work! One of my favorite areas is viewing the pictures. What happened to the old photos that used to be posted? Is it possible to keep the links active? Thanks! Tracy

Dear Tracy, thanks for writing in! Photos and videoclips take up ALOT of memory, which is why you don't see the old pictures still on the site -- we totally are running out of space. I've been going so digi-crazy and find it tough to pick and choose what pics to post, that I tend to let you view them all to save me. Hopefully sometime soon, we'll be able to expand the amount of space we have on our server.

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June 21, 2002 -- Dancing to have fun

I have been dancing now for a while and have read your article on dancing. I do like social dancing but find it lots of work after all this time. No matter how well you dance, it is never enough especially if your are older.

Let's take Mr. ?? who is known by many and is NOT 20. I see him at many clubs. A while back he wrote an article about what women should do and not do to get a dance. I find that the older dancer, the one with lots more experience and connected to the rhythm gets the cold shoulder from most of the men. Mind you not all and I truly respect those young men out there who dance with us and enjoy it. Getting back to Mr. ??, he rarely says hello even if he's danced with you and most certainly overlooks you unless your are 20. Is he shy or just a _____. All that talk about dance ethics what a lot of bull. So what does one do when you have men like him out there. Take the guy who is not on time and his timing is off with each turn pattern he does, then looks at you like you're doing something wrong. Worst of all he tells other guys then how many times do you get to dance. You see guys don't dance with guys so they wouldn't know about his buddies being off timing. If the ladies say anything them she doesn't know what she talking about.
I wish you would do any article on the older dancers, women and what they feel especially in today's dance community. A lot of us take classes and enjoy them. We may not spin, spin, spin but we can dance. -- Carmen See See

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June 21, 2002 -- Is Lula Lounge Crazy?

How can the organizers of Lula lounge charge $45 before and $55 dollars at the door for the Issac Delgado concert ?? It's highway robbery. First of all, it is an unknown venue and Issac Delgado is less popular than Sonora Carruseles or Marc Anthony. But they charge more for tickets for his concert than Marc Anthony's or Sonora Carruseles'!! Is that information correct? If it is true I think they will have problems selling tickets, when you can see Issac Delgado for free in Montreal. -- Joekim

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June 20, 2002

Rose, Check this out if you haven't: http://www.salsacrazy.com/salsaroots/nysalsero.htm

I think it's a very important article. I see more and more new dancers in Toronto trying to acheive the "NY pinnacle", while ignoring all other forms of salsa, which I feel is quite foolish considering the diversity inherent in TO.

I think comments made against Timba stem from the NY attitude against anything non-NY. Thanks again! Josue

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June 20, 2002 -- Sonora Carruseles

Hi rose, just a quick question, where can I buy tickets in advance for sonora carruseles @ palazzo next friday? (is Palazzo the only place?) Also, have u ever been to Palazzo and how's the crowd there? (never been there, too far!) thanks in advance and keep up
the great work! -Sam

Dear Sam, I would suggest calling Super Latin Music as they are selling tickets there, the information contact nos. is on the What's Happening section of the home page (Info: 416-654-2217 / 416-817-5997). And yes, I have been to Palazzo's, but not in a long time, so I'm not sure what the crowd is like, but I'm sure it will be a mix of everyone; and dependent on how well they "advertised" this concert will determine how busy it is... Rose

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June 19, 2002 -- Music

Can you send me Lyrics to bachatas. All if it isn't a bother -- Elvis

Dear Elvis and other Readers with these similar types of questions... we don't send out lyrics to anyone, I post whatever I have sent to me when I have some time. So for all the readers who have contributed in the last few months, I apologize about not posting the songs that I've been sent, but I'll get to them eventually when I have more time. If you prefer to have a copy, then all you do is highlight, copy and paste off the site, or just print off that page from the printer. If you can't find the lyrics you're looking for, then I suggest using www.google.com, and typing in the name and the artist and the word lyrics and see what comes up; and MAYBE you'll be lucky to find it. Rose

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June 18, 2002 -- Issac Delgado concert

Issac Delgado will play in a free outdoor concert in Montreal Jazz festival at 7:30pm, July 1. 2LF

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June 19, 2002

Hello Rose, I have been living the dance competitions and Salsa "congressos" vicariously through the TOsalsa website. I'm getting inspired to get out and dance more but when I see all the fancy moves, I sometimes would rather just watch, not from any embarassment, just because it really is entertaining. Well, Summer is here and maybe we'll get out more. I am excited by all the new live music venues. I also like reading the e-mail too! The timba music conversation is particularly interesting for us. Thanks for keeping us posted as to what's going on. Sincerely, Carole and David Chala

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June 18, 2002 -- Dancing in the Hamilton/Burlington Area

Hi Eddy, There are a few places to go out in Hamilton/Burlington. Tuesdays you can go to the Sheraton in downtown Hamilton and there is a salsa/merengue night at the club inside. It is fairly small or intimate but with a friendly, learning crowd. On Thursdays there is latin night at Baranga's on the beach, and this is a bit of a younger crowd. Friday's there is supposed to be latin night at the Arnie at Mohawk College. And Saturday's you can go to Yanni's Casa Blanca in Hamilton behind the Go station for a genuine
latin feeling with only a $2 cover. However, if you are looking for a
higher calibre of dancers or more variety of music, I recommend spending the $5 on gas and driving to Toronto. Sarah

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June 17, 2002 -- The Ritz Nightclub

This message is for all you salsa lovers out there.
I have been going to the Ritz for the last three Saturday's this month and am very disappointed by the turnout. It is a beautiful club with great music, lots of seating, and a large sized dance floor.
Why is it that people aren't flocking there on Saturdays?
I think that people should definitely give it a try. Like I said, the music is amazing and there is no cover before eleven for everyone. Can't beat that! -- Michelle

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June 17, 2002 -- casino Rueda vs. Mexican salsa (cumbia)

I don't know how salsa transformed into cumbia from it's origional cuban style. I live in Minnesota and almost everyone in the clubs dance cumbia. Everyone thinks that they are dancing salsa correctly when, in reality, all they are dancing is cumbia. It's really shocking to them when I tell them that they really arent dancing salsa. I think that it's really interesting how salsa changed from casino rueda to cumbia. -- Aitana

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June 16, 2002

Hi, I'm not really sure who this will reach but I was hoping for some assistance. I am a sax player from York University and I am looking for a salsa/ merengue band to join in the city that does regualr performances. Can you suggest somewhere I can post my information or perhaps a person to get in contact with that is familiar with the groups in town? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, Lindsey Berthiaume

Dear Lindsey, I would suggest either contacting Lula Lounge as they have many musicians hanging out there, or go to any of the events where latin bands are playing and introduce yourself -- that would probably be your best bet. Rose

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June 15, 2002 -- Salsa in the Burlington/Hamilton area?

Are there any salsa clubs in the Burlington/Hamilton area? tks Eddy

Dear Readers, if you have any feedback about clubs in the surrounding areas, please write in.

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June 13, 2002 -- TLN Latinfest

hey rose, its me tiffany, i was just wondering if you had heard from TLN yet as to whos coming for latinfest. My friend was reading a publication about TLN LAtinfest and apparently the guests who are coming are Huey Dunbar, Illegales and Oro Solido. Can you please find out for us because we're dying here! :0) We just want to know whos coming. Thanks!------tiff

Dear Tiffany, sorry, your guess is as good as mine. In the past when I've asked -- I've had the same response as you, so you'll just have to wait and see. More than likely, they're still finalizing the line-up as it's at least 6 weeks away. Rose

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June 12, 2002 -- better places to dance salsa in Toronto

Hi, I am a french student girl and I will stay in Toronto for 2 month in july and August. I love salsa (especially salsa cubana) and I would like to know the better places to dance salsa in Toronto.
Thank you, Amilie

Dear Amilie, I suggest you check out my club hangouts and/or the What's Happening section to see where the parties are being held. It's difficult to tell you as everyone looks for something different in a club, i.e. some want a typical latin night with all types of music and there's others who flock to the clubs that play more salsa and have the best dancers in the City hanging out there. Rose

June 14, 2002 -- Better Places to Dance Salsa
Tumbao at Mana (722 College) on tuesday is a great salsa cubana hangout -- Mona

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June 11, 2002 -- Paparazzi Nightclub

Hi, Just wanted to let you know that Paparazzi no longer accepts the free entrance coupon from your site. I believe women are free before 11, and it's $10 for guys. I'm not sure if they're going to discontinue the latin night on Fridays, but last Friday the place was pretty dead - I would definitely not return -- Michael

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June 10, 2002

Dear Readers, this was such a nice surprise for me that I just thought I'd share this little bit of info with you... from one of my favourite dance groups who inspire me and totally surprised me when I saw the link...

It will be a pleasure and honor to have your wonderful web site in our links' page. Frankie also loves your web site. Take care. Irma Martinez, Administrator (mom of Frankie Martinez)

As quoted on from Abakuadancers.com:

"A must visit web site. This web site, hosted by "Rose Knows" has become one of the best sources of information for the dance community. Rose writes with a fluent tone of honesty that grabs your attention. She posts articles based on her own interviews, travels and experience and other articles which are of mutual interest to all of us. Her travel itinerary is extensive and full of facts. This is, in my view, the place to go to keep informed and to learn about past, present and future events in our dance community. This is a Toronto-based web site".

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June 10, 2002 -- Song singer

Hi Rose, I just wanted to know if you knew who sings the song named "Lady". I hear it all the time and the clubs but don't know who sings it. Thanks and great site! Nikki

Dear Nikki, sigh... I guess you don't check my Top 10 Salsa Song Lists because you would have seen it listed there -- Orquesta la Palabra is the artist -- Rose

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June 7, 2002 -- concerts

hey guys, just wanted to let you know that this years latinfest at wonderland will be on Sunday July 21, 2002, just wanted to let you know to put it up on your site! I tried emailing TLN as to whos performing, but they are very tight lipped about the event, they wont even give me a clue as to what the theme is.

hey can you guys try bringing better acts to toronto, like fulanito, monchy y alexandra, tulile, etc. it seems like its always the same people, thanks!, tiffany

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June 7, 2002 -- Local DJ "Top" lists...

Rose, I really miss seeing the updated Top Song lists from Billy, Fab, etc. Considering the great music Alvaro plays, it would be great to see a playlist from him too. Maybe you can bug him about this? I consider going to Latin Roots to be educational because he plays so many classic tracks. Thanks again! Josue

Dear Josue, I hear ya... every once inawhile I bug them, but you know how "artists" are... why don't you remind them the next time you seem them in the clubs... While I was at the Detroit Congress a couple of the Chicago DJ's promised to send me their own Top 10 List, but I'll probably have to email them to remind them -- Rose

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June 5, 2002 -- all ages clubs

Hi, I'm 15 years old, and I'm interested in going to a dance club, but I'm not sure what clubs are all ages and which ones are 18+ I'm wondering if you can tell me which ones I can go to and which ones I can't, Thanxs ~Bria

Dear Bria, if you mean latin clubs, there isn't a regular all ages one to go to, if you mean regular dance clubs, I suggest going into www.google.com and typing in "Toronto all ages dance clubs" and see what you find -- Rose

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June 3, 2002 -- Timba

I am new in Toronto and have tried to hang out in a lot of salsa joints in town but havent come across one that plays timba. I have tried to go with my cds to some club but the djs dont understand the music, can you please recomend a place where i can here the hottest timba (not son,chacha etc.) hope to hear from you soon.thanx in advance -- Anon.

Dear Anon, apparently DJ Billy Bryans plays Timba at Mana Lounge on Tuesdays, so you may want to check it out; and if you bring your own CD's, he may even play some of it! Rose

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June 1, 2002

Dear Sirs, I am looking for an album entitled "Pa Bailar" by La Cali Charanga. I believe it was recorded around 1988-1989. I do not know the label. Do you have for sale, or can you assist me in locating this album? Gary

Dear Gary, I suggest looking at possibly Descarga.com, CDnow or Amazon.com.

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May 31, 2002 -- Issac Delgado or Marc Anthony?

Let's start another debate. I heard both Marc Anthony and Issac Delgado are going to have concerts in Toronto in summer. Who is the better salsa singer? Marc Anthony may be better known but for me Issac Delgado is better. Marc Anthony only started singing Salsa because he couldn't make it in other types of music. He is more influenced by Mexican music. He even named himself after a famous Mexican singer. Marc Anthony by his own admission still hasn't learned to sing with the clave. Issac Delgado avoids the whining and the histrionics of Marc Anthony's singing. He may be the best singer in Cuba right now.

By the way, does anyone know how to get tickets for Shakira's concert at Much Music in Toronto in a couple of weeks? Alex

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May 31, 2002 -- babaluu nightclub

hello, I read the review on the treatment at babaluu. I have experienced the same treatment. I went on a thursday night alone. My friend was already inside. I was lined up outside on the steps. It was cold that night. It looked like I was with the people in front of me because we all started talking. The bouncer announced that the club is reaching capacity. He was letting people in as others were leaving. When the group in front of me were let in, he stopped me. I was waiting for at least 15- 20 mins before he let me in. Meanwhile he let many people bypass the line to go in before me. He seemed to know them and felt no shame . I just found it unfair that he let at least 10 people in before he let me in and I was by myself.

Other than this particular incident Babaluu has a nice atmosphere and great music, although when I am there I find it overcrowded and do not have room to salsa -- Natasha

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May 30, 2002 -- Sore feet

Hello, My name is Vanessa Hidalgo, and I recently began taking up Salsa lessons and am practicing regulary at dance clubs. I bought a pair of Capezio dance shoes, with a heel about 2 inches in length, not too high, for dancing and practice. They were very comfortable in the store, and that's why I bought them. After I broke them in at my dance lesson, my feet began to hurt very badly. I feel pain in the middle of my arch and under the bottom of my toe bones. What do you suggest I do. I can't get enough of dancing, because I want to learn Salsa very badly, but after about 2 hours of dancing, my feet kill me, and are so inflammed. Are there any shoes you recommend I could purchase, and how would you go about solving or correcting this dilema. I'd appreciate any advice you could give me. Yours truly, Vanessa Hidalgo

Dear Vanessa, shoes are a very personal thing. If you're not used to dancing on your feet for an extended length of time, then your feet will hurt until you get used to being on your feet. I suggest possibly that you may want to get a lower heel, one inch maybe and then your feet may not hurt as much or try a pair of dance sneakers. They won't look as pretty on your feet if you're wearing a skirt, but you may findthem more comfortable. Also, if you're in that much pain from your arch, maybe you should check with your doctor regarding the type of shoes you should be wearing in case you have a special problem with your feet that is only showing up now that you are dancing and standing for hours.

Or maybe you didn't buy the right type of dance shoes -- I prefer ballroom shoes as they keep your feet really stable and are very durable versus regular leather street shoes.

For myself personally, I can wear high heels for the whole night, but I've been wearing high heels since I was a teenager and my feet have grown accustomed to high heels of 2-1/2" to 3". Also, I'm very light on my feet, I don't "pound" the floor while I'm dancing -- which also could be the other cause of why your feet hurt -- maybe you're dancing on the floor too hard? Hope this helps, Rose.

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May 29, 2002
Concert Info please?

Rose, do you know when Shakira, the Colombian song goddess, will
perform at MuchMusic? I heard it's next week. I love Shakira !! Do you have any details of the Issac Delgado concerts that will be happening in Toronto ? I hope you promote these these concerts as much you did with Riverdance, which is not Latin music. Heidy

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May 28, 2002

Hi Rose, I was checking tosalsa site and stumbled upon your notice offering help in finding a place to stay. I'm a former Torontonian, but live in San Francisco now. I need to be in Toronto in June or Sept. (most likely Sept.) and I would appreciate if you could help me find a place to stay maybe for a week or so.
I'm an advanced salsera and I could help my host(s) with practice or welcome them in San Francisco if they want to come for a visit. I also write for 2 local websites: salsacrazy.com and salsasf.com. You can read my articles signed Maya/Salsaloca at salsacrazy. I think my article Salsa! from salsasf.com was posted at tosalsa awhile back. (Someone called and asked my permission)
I would really appreciate your help. Thanks. Maya

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May 24, 2002 --
Lessons for Beginners in Kitchener-Waterloo Area

Hello! I am really interested in taking up salsa dancing but I can't find locations that offer beginner's lessons. Is there any salsa classes for beginners in the Kitchener-Waterloo area? Any information would be great. Thanks! Julia Mielcarek

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May 21, 2002 -- bouncers at babaluu

Hi rose , just read the review of babaluu where the fella was complaining about the bouncer and would appreciate it if u posted this follow-up:

I hafta agree with this fella, the bouncers at babaluu have some serious attitude and have "special" treatment for certain folks, but I noticed it's far more chronic on weekends when there's line-ups than on wednesdays (and I must admit, wed. @ babaluu is one of the best salsa nights in toronto). I understand their intimidating demeanor is intended to frighten potential trouble makers, but c'mon folks the bouncers at english clubs are even friendlier! It sucks when they give certain folks special treatment, and right in front of u too... without the remotest hint of subtlety!!!! At any rate I just opted not to go to babaluu's on the weekends anymore, don't like to be intimidated by anybody, especially bouncers who are supposed to be there to ensure a secure environment for me. Another factor might be its popularity? I was surprised that some non-salsa friends thought of babaluu as an "up-scale" nightclub (despite the fact they hardly ever salsa, that's their impression of babaluu), maybe cause it's in yorkville area? Suffice to say there are alot more friendlier places to go, just do a quick scan of this page bro and u'll se what i mean. Jose

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May 17, 2002 -- Issac Delgado !!

ISSAC DELGADO IS COMING -- Just to ley everyone know. The best singer in Salsa now is coming to Toronto for 4 nights. The Visas have been approved and he will be here July 2-5, 4 Nights !! Ex-American president Carter's (He's in Cuba now) favourite song is Issac Delgado's La Sandunguita. And check out Delgado's version of the Eagles' Classic song Hotel California called El Solar de la California -- chincub

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May 16, 2002

Yo i love your website . I think it is hott. I love dominican songs. I would love to tell this website if can they please put more bachata songs.

1 song dat i would like to tell you to put on the lyrics is anthony santos me quiero morir and el gringo muere de dolor .

100 % DoMiNiCaNiTa -- Olga

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May 16, 2002 --

Is there a salsa club in taiwan??? Roy

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May 16, 2002 -- Bar One

Hi Rose,
Great Site. I just wanted to say that I went to Bar one for the first time on Wednesday and I really liked it. There wasn't alot of people there which was nice because we had more dance room to dance. I got to dance with Salsa Teachers and I really enjoyed it. I will definately go back -- Nikki

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May 15, 2002
1. Nice web site...

2. So many girls think Cumbia is Salsa. Bless their innocent hearts, but I wish I had a dollar for every girl that told me she danced Salsa, then I was locked into 4 minutes of swing dancing. I would be investing alot of money....

3. also... in regards to LA/NYC styles and Chicago. I have had the pleasure of studying with top dancers from all of the cities mentioned. My answer to comments by many who critisize LA or west coast style, etc. is... let's see you dance like that... I try to dance different styles. Forcing oneself to do so opens up your dance acumen, and allows you change with the music. You want emotion, you want heart, you want street dancing, take the blinders off and dance your ass off in whatever style you choose, but don't critisize unless you something to back it all up. Too many critics and not enough good people to promote a wonderful avocation and eclectic music like Salsa is bad period. Unless someone is teaching something that is way off the mark, and none of his or her students know how to dance with anyone else, well...... ? It is a great social activity, and the Europeans, with all their passion for life, have really embraced the sport. I think that all Americans, and if you pay taxes here you qualify, should take a look the Latin explosion in Europe. When I have women from Spain and Italy tell me how much they love dancing with me, well, I feel pretty damn good. I am not a professional dancer, but I never stop trying to dance like one. :)

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May 14, 2002 -- dance shoes

I need information about any dance shoe stores you cantell me. I would appreciate it. Thanks in advance...

Dear Farshad, I'm sorry, but you'll have to search through my Dear TOsalsa archives of letters as I've written soooo many times about dance shoes, and haven't had a moment to put together that article yet!

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May 13, 2002

Hi! ToSalsa.com
I'm an new Zealand student interested in salsa dancing, I also do alot of dancing myself. I was wondering if you could possible send me some information on the history and origins of the salsa dancing. And also some websites you would find helpful (if possible). think you very much -- Stacey, New Zealand :)

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May 13, 2002 --

What makes El Rancho such a difficult place for us to get asked to dance ???/ anonymous

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May 12, 2002 -- mi todo dominicanada

ahola i am from nicaragua i dont know how to spell that great in spanish... well i would like to know if there is any way you can send me the guitar tabs to mi todo by dominicanada.?? please i have been looking for them and i cant find them!! thank you... Saul

Dear Saul, I'm sorry but we can't help you... we aren't musicians, but dancers...

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May 10, 2002 -- bar one nightclub

thought I'd write in to say that I had a "BLAST" at bar one on Wednesday. This was my second time there and I found it extremely and had a great time. there was only about 80 people there but I had a great time watching some of the best dancers show their stuff.
I would also like to wish Rene a happy belated birthday. I was there last week to see how many friends you have. the place was packed with the best dancers in T.O. as well as some pretty good students.
I'm surprised that it's not that busy every week. The cover is only $5 and i hear that you get a free class with it. it's a great looking place but what i loved most about it was the wooden floor. this club has got to have the best dance floor. Ariel

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May 8, 2002 -- dance lessons

Hi there Team Salsa, in finding the "woman of my dreams", I/We have also found that we want to learn how to do 'the Hot Latin
stuff' on the dancefloor; ...but don't know where to take/get free lessons at a workshop, or 'Salsa event'!! ....we think that this, (a workshop or event), would be our best shot at getting some lessons, gratis; AND, see some acomplished 'latin dancers' in action. Soooo, any help you have for the 'Trini Queen and the
Wild Irish guy', would be greatly appreciated. Sean.

Dear Sean, well if you're looking for free classes and a place to see great dancers, there's lots to choose from plus if you keep following the "What's Happening" section of our home page, you'll see lots of salsa parties where free lessons may be included along with some great performances to inspire you. Where can you find some free lessons (usually included in the cover charge of the club): Tuesday at Tequila Lounge or Berlin Nightclub, Wednesday at Babaluu or Bar One, Thursday at Babaluu, Friday at Courthouse OR Sundays at Left Bank. You can check out our club listings for all the details... Hope this helps, Rose Knows

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May 8, 2002 -- cuban dancer/Vladimir

Hey, This is a message for Kathy. I took lessons with Vladimir last summer and I know that he still teaches. I do believe that he teaches at La Carreta (Cuban restaurant), 2579 Yonge St. (north of Eglinton),(416) 322-9677. I hope that helps. Nikki
P.S. Rose! Your site is awesome!!

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May 7, 2002 -- Dance style

Rose and Ziv? My wife and I like to dance, have taken disco and ballroom lessons over the years, and in the past, have been asked where our studio is located, but last night, we went to our first night of salsa group lessons. I was expecting a forward and back basic salsa step, or a "5/7" basic, but she did the basic, side to side. Is that normal for first nights, and beginners? We learned in 1.5 hours what we could have done in 10 minutes; side-to-side basic, slow couple turn and a turn under.

Where does one learn more intricate salsa in the Niagara Falls area? Do you know of any salsa dancing in this area?

They have international ballroom competitions in Niagara Falls each year, and I'll try to see if there's any salsa with it. Beginner John

Dear John, because of your background and training in other forms of partner dancing, then yes, you would have picked it up much quicker and depending on the class and how the instructors teaches, again yes, it could be normal for the first night. Don't forget, many dancers have NEVER danced together in a partner dance, and many men have never learned to lead, so it would feel really foreign and awkward at first. Remember what it was like the first time you had to lead your partner in a ballroom class?

Sorry, we don't have any information about your area, but you could try searching in www.google.com or the newspapers to see if there's any salsa lessons being offered. Since you know the basics of partner dancing, you may want to consider buying some dance videotapes and learning that way and/or come up to Toronto for a weekend and take some classes, workshops and/or privates with some of Toronto instructors who can teach you the salsa basics you're looking for. Hope this helps, Rose Knows

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May 7, 2002 -- where to buy latin music in town

Hi there I am looking to buy salsa music for home to listen to and practice. Is there any non sams/hmv type stores that you know? I am mainly looking for "on fire" w/lady and would like to know if it can be purchased locally. Sincerely, John

Dear John, there are two latin music stores you can check out -- Super Latin Music and Rincon Hispano; and in case you wanted to see what the album looked like for "Lady", check out this link.

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May 7, 2002 -- cuban salsa

Somewhere on your site I read an article about a cuban salsa teacher called Vladimir who teaches at the Spanish Center.
Could you please tell me how I can locate this person or where I could see or learn this type of dance. thanks, kathy

Dear Kathy, sorry I have no idea about where Vladimir teaches now or what clubs you can watch cuban salsa dancers, but maybe one of the Readers can help you. The one time I could remember seeing Cubans dance was at the TLN Latinfest at Canada's Wonderland; and/or if you go to any of the clubs where a cuban band is playing. Hope that helps.

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May 6, 2002 -- momentos moved

hi! I just wanna tell you that momentos moved from yorkville! I heard that it is now around eglinton and young, i'm not sure where exactly! bye! Andrea

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May 6, 2002 -- YaBB message board servers

Rose and Ziv, Salsero Corner and Salserosweb message boards are really cool and extremely addictive as you no doubt know.

It would be great for TOSalsa to host something like this (if it isn't already in the works). The discussion forums are always packed and I think you guys should take them to the next level!

What do you think? Josue

Dear Josue, thanks for your feedback and yes, that's been one of the sections we will eventually develop for our site. We've been really swamped with real work and salsa backlog! Rose

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May 6, 2002 -- name of a song

Hi Rose: You are always very good in figuring out titles of songs
or artisit's name. So here is one for you. I have been hearing it at Babaluu's lately. The chorus uses the phrase of "estoy conociendo ahora, estoy conociendo tanto..." Any ideas??? Emma

Dear Emma, you give me too much credit... usually it's the readers or friends who figure it out for me... the only time I can usually figure it out is if I already have heard, listened and/or danced to the song. So you're in luck, I forwarded your email to Freddy Paiz who quickly emailed me back that the song is one of my favourites, "Pena de Amor" by Puerto Rican Power. Music Tip: Next time you're in a club and are dancing to your favourite tune -- go up to the DJ and ask him for the name and artist of the song. That's how I first started to learn the music, before I started surfing the Internet.

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May 3, 2002 -- Lessons in Hamilton

Dear Rose: Somebody wrote in about taking lessons in the Hamilton area. I take private lessons through an individual I met at Hamilton's one and only Salsa Night...Wednesday at the Tonic Lounge in the Sheraton Hotel with Mark and Marie. Great instruction for $3.00, great music and a good crowd. Perhaps you could pass on the info. Also, could you recommend a good instructional video on Meringue. Thanks. Dale.

Dear Dale, thanks for the info and regarding a good instructional video on Merengue... hmm... as I don't usually love to dance Merengue on a regular basis, I've never really researched it... I suggest going into www.google.com and do a search for merengue videos. I know Josie had one videotape with some merengue on it, but I guess it depends on whether you want the basics or something with moves and if anyone's selling their tapes through the internet, you'll probably find the information on what's contained on their video before you decide to buy. Good Luck, Rose

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May 3, 2002

I am a person that addicted to salsa music and salsa dancing where I can't get enough of it. This summer I'm going on a long-four weeks vacation to TURKEY. Now my problem is that I want to hangout or visit the clubs that plays latin music(salsa specially), but I don't know if they have or where they have this kind of activities. I've searched the net, but could't find anything. I know you are a vey busy person, but is there any possibility that you can find any information regading club listings in Turkey? That would be awsome. I appreciate any help in advance. Ciao Farshid

Dear Farshid, you are in luck! At the beginning of January, I got an email from a Scottish Salsera who now lives in Izmir, Turkey. Apparently there isn't much of a salsa scene, but I'm sure she can help you out... I'll be putting you in touch with each other... Rose

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May 2, 2002 -- DJ No-Capitalista

hi Rose, i was wondering if you knew anything about DJ No-Capitalista or knew about any upcoming events where he was DJ-ing. !Los eventos suyos me parecen bien interesantes! Cariqos, and gracias por tu rebuena sitio! christine

Dear Christine, I don't know where he normal DJ's, but I do know that DJ No-Capitalista is always the DJ for any Palenke Orchetra events that happen usually at La Ceverjeria about once a month. Hope that helps, Rose

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May 1, 2002 -- clubs in Hamilton

You have a couple of clubs listed under Oakville / Hamilton area. You might want to ad Yannis, in Hamilton, it's open I think Friday nights and for sure Saturday nights- music & ambiance is mostly latin, with salsa, meringue, bachata , etc. Just thought I'd let you know. Yannick

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April 30, 2002 -- Team Canada? and Club Mayan comp.

Hello TO Salsa.
You have a great website.
Just a couple of comments as I navigate my way through the site. I noticed a forum posting regarding Ashkan and Gina, who are competing in this years Club Mayan world salsa competition in the amateur division. They ARE from Canada; from Vancouver as a matter of fact. YAY!!!! They made it to the Semi's!!! It's true, there ARE good Salsa dancers in other parts of Canada besides Ontario and Quebec ;-)

Also regarding the "Salsa TEAM CANADA" group: how come there aren't any western Canada reps/teams??? We've got some pretty hot dancers here on the west coast, ya know??
Give us some props out here!!!! OYE!! Vansalsero

Dear Vansalsero, thanks for writing in and giving us the scoop -- it's great that there's a Canadian couple competing in the amateurs from Vancouver -- I admire their dedication and I'm glad to see that Vancouver is starting to grow as a salsa city. Give us a shoutout on how well they did in the finals coming up.

Regarding Salsa Team Canada's representation in the west, I did email some of the Vancouver websites, and this was posted on our site for quite awhile, but you're the first dancer from Vancouver to ever make a comment; and this is at least 6 months after we started this idea. Although I have to admit, with the amount of time and work that's involved with just three cities right now, having it all across Canada would have been difficult to manage as it is the first time we are all working together from each city. And trying to get all the dancers in each city over the next three months along with fundraisers has been a huge challenge. Hopefully by next year, we will have the kinks out and we can see how to integrate Vancouver and other cities into the mix. Keep watching out for "Salsa Team Canada" as there are some major wins in the community which unfortunately I cannot announce until they're finalized. Rose Knows