Thursday evening saw two of the emirate’s keenest salsa representatives, James Castro and Alex de Smit, showcasing their talents during an informal get-together, while Friday featured Latin dance workshops for learners. The programme was topped by the city’s first annual Salsa Winter Ball on the Friday night; a classy soirée boasting a red and black theme.

Chief organiser of the weekend, known to all in the UAE’s close-knit Latin dance music community simply as ‘Ahmed Salsa,’ explained the importance of the gathering. “This was something we’ve been wanting to do for a while – to bring the salsa community together for a chance to improve their dancing at workshops and also to enjoy a formal dinner and ball,” he said. “It’s an important time of year for us, as it’s the sixth anniversary of ‘Familia de la Salsa,’ which is one of the longest running salsa dance schools in Dubai. We have a number of people here tonight from salsa clubs in Abu Dhabi as well as Dubai,” he added.

Manning the decks on both nights was DJ Shaan, who had flown over especially from the UK to spin the UAE salsa set’s favourite numbers. He explained how playing Latin American music required different skills than those traditionally associated with the art of deejaying. “Mixing tunes together is definitely not encouraged in this scene, as the important thing about this style of music is that the dancers are always couples and the finish is an important aspect of each routine,” he said. “If you mix one track into another, you will miss that essential part,” he added. Shaan is clearly steeped in the culture of the music he plays. As well as performing DJ duties at salsa events across the world, he runs his own Latin Dance Academy in London.

The highlight of the Thursday evening was a display of virtuoso salsa dancing by Castro and  de Smit; a duo who regularly represent Dubai at dance competitions and festivals abroad. The couple’s spin on the Knowledge Inn’s Vista Restaurant’s dancefloor revealed just why they are regarded as perhaps the best salsa pairing in Dubai and they gained appreciative applause as they finished their specially choreographed number.

For more information on Salsa classes check www.jamesandalex.com or www.familiadelasalsa.com Ahmed Salsa runs a Latin music event every Tuesday night from 8-9pm at the Barasti Bar, Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina, Jumeirah.

Backtrack: Khaleej Times Online