In October 2010 I went to a benefit performance by the Baila Society at El Museo del Bario. I figured why not, funds were being raised for the Latino Commission on Aids, a very worthy cause. So I bought at the VIP ticket price. Each person who bought a VIP ticket received a coupon for a free dance lesson. Not feeling one way or the other about Salsa lessons, I waited until the last week of the year to use my coupon. I'm glad I did. I never had so much fun being taught something. We were rotated among three instructors. I don't remember the name of the third guy. But he, along with Jenny and Joe, had excellent presentation skills. The fact that we had three instructors rotating allowed us to see the moves with different body types, different nuances, different speeds. It was kind of encouraging and very inspiring to learn like that. Joey Rivera had a way of demonstrating the dance moves and breaking down the steps that was almost like in slow motion. You were able to see the technique in such a way that it built your confidence. During the class, performers from the studio dance troupe came in and partnered with us beginners. By the end, we were all laughing and dancing like long-time friends. I recommend Baila to everybody who wants dance instruction, or wants to watch good dance performances. Even if you know Salsa, they had such moves and a variety of styles, you can probably still learn something. I hadn't planned on taking lessons. But I had such a good time and felt so comfortable and confident learning that I am now.
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