2025 Confirmed Performers, Judges and Instructors

• Confirmed performers, please scroll down to the bottom of this page to upload your show music to the provided link at the latest by March 17th

• Interested in performing? Contact eric@salsarica.ca

Edwin Rivera

Edwin Rivera was featured in the movie El Cantante with Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony, and on the on popular South American television show Let’s dance, Rojo Fama Contrafama.
Edwin has been a producer of the Los Angeles and Salsa Festival and the World Latin Dance Cup.
He is artistic director of many congresses including the New York International Salsa Congress.
Edwin works with Fania Records on their ‘We love to see you dance’ series on youtube, and MONSTER PRODUCTS ‘The monster sound of Latin’ initiative. Edwin is an influential artist in the Latin dance and music community as a dancer, DJ, and music producer.

Billy Fajardo

Billy Fajardo has been in the dance world for over 50 years. He is a World Champion in Salsa, Latin Hustle, and Cabaret. He is also NDCA Championship Judge and Producer of the World Latin Dance Championship known as The Summit Championship held every year in Florida.

Alex y Judy

Certified international teachers, choreographers and judges.
They have represented Colombia in different competitions and congresses worldwide, with more than 10 years of experience as dancers and 4 years of artistic career as a couple, they are currently consecrated as World Multi-Champions in the Professional Cabaret Salsa Couple category in addition to being finalists in the renowned Mexican reality Show "EL RETADOR".

Jorge y Maria

Jorge Martinez and Maria Catalan are celebrated World Salsa Champions from Mexico.
They are known internationally as Salsa Na’Ma champions for their winning solo competitions, as judges and presenters of the Oaxaca Salsa and Bachata Festival. 

Anya Katsevman

Anya Katsevman has starred in the touring shows of Dancing with the Stars and Burn the Floor, she has performed for U.S. President Barack Obama and performed with El Gran Combo at Madison Square Gardens. Anya is an undefeated 2 time World Salsa Champion On2. Anya is celebrated around the world for her choreography and coaching.

Harold and Regan

Regan Hirose and Harold Rancano, 9 time World Bachata Cabaret Champions, are a Latin dance couple best known for their energetic flair and acrobatic flips and tricks on stage. Based out of Winnipeg, Canada, the flavorful couple has achieved plenty of success on both a national and international level and have appeared on America’s got talent!

Adriano et Samantha

Adriano Ieropoli and Samantha Scali are professional dancers based out of Montreal, Canada. In 2009, at age fourteen they began their partnership by teaching locally and performing for various stage productions, concerts, festivals and salsa congresses.

In 2015, they started competing internationally and founded Novaera Productions their very own dance studio in Montreal. That year, Adriano won his first world title in the same gender division and he is now the current and 3x consecutive world champion in the men solo division . Adriano and Samantha are the first Canadian couple to have won a world title in the Professional Salsa On2 division, having placed first at the 2017 World Salsa Summit. They defended that title in 2018 and 2019, winning the Summit for a third consecutive season.
In 2019 they were also grand finalists in the second season of “Révolution”, representing Salsa in the biggest televised dance competition in Québec.
This year they were invited for a second time to be a part of the cast of “Révolution en tournée” as choreographers and performers.

The couple continues to travel the world, sharing their passion as competitors, performers, instructors and choreographers.

Jhaime et Sacha

Jhaime Vega is a professional trained dancer from the biggest schools in North America such as Broadways Dance Center, Millenium Dance Complex and Joffrey Ballet School.He is also the founder and director of Alliance Dance Company based in Montreal, winners and Canadian Bachata Champions at the Canada Salsa & Bachata Congress, they also classify second place at The Ultimate Latin Dance Competition in Las Vegas and top 5 at the Euroson Latino World Salsa Championship.

Sacha Fomina received training in rhythmic gymnastics for 10 years competing internationally by representing Canada with the national team from the age of 12 to 15. Her artistic formation also revolved around an intensive high-school program, which included ballet, jazz, flamenco and modern dance.

After only working together for 7 months, Sacha and Jhaime took the chance to compete at the international dance competition “The Summit” in the U.S. becoming world champions in the salsa cabaret division.

Erika Saucillo Rivera

Erika Saucillo Rivera is “Fania Records” instructor for their dance series “We Love To See You Dance” on Youtube with Edwin Rivera. Erica is director of one of Los Angeles's largest Salsa and Bachata teams "Quest Salchata Crew" and the creator of Fiercechata. A company with a mission to make women see their true beauty, shine their light, and embody the confidence they were meant to have through dance.
Erika trained with Ballet Folklorico for 15 years, and with Alma Latina Dance Company.
She has studied Jazz, Heels, Contemporary, Hip hop, Salsa, Bachata, Afro, and Latin Ballroom. Erika has been crowned LA's Top Female Social Salsa Dancer, has placed 3rd in the world in Cha Cha Cha and 2nd in the world in Bachata Solo at the World Latin Dance Cup.

Victor et Corrine

For over two decades, the dynamic duo of Corinne Tardieu and Victor Alexis has illuminated the dance world with their boundless talent, creativity, and infectious warmth. 🌟 As Canadian champions in Salsa on2, Hustle all styles, and Bachata classica, and soloists in Mambo, they've proudly represented Canada on the international stage, consistently finishing as world champions, top finalists, and top placers in their divisions. 💃🕺

Even beyond their championship titles, their impact continues to resonate. Corinne a former champion, now serves as a respected judge in all major congresses,  While Victor is honored as the top teacher of 2023, he continues to lead by example, remaining actively engaged with his pro-am students, guiding them to success in competitions worldwide. 🏆

From their renowned dance schools in Montreal and the vibrant capital of Ottawa, Corinne and Victor's studios serve as welcoming havens for dancers of all levels. Their commitment to accessibility and inclusivity shines through in every aspect of their work, from grooming future instructors to mentoring aspiring dancers and providing invaluable business guidance and choreography expertise.

Their legacy isn't just measured in trophies and accolades; it's felt in the lives they touch and the dreams they help bring to fruition. As they continue to spread their magic across Canada and beyond, Corinne & Victor remain true ambassadors of dance, spreading joy, inspiration, and fabulousness wherever they go. ✨🎶

Raphael et Sabrina

Raphael and Sabrina have started their partnership in 2019 in Montreal and are now 4 times national Bachata champions in North America. They are the current champions of their category at the Calgary International salsa congress and will be back this year to defend their title with their new routine, you don’t want to miss it!
Best known for their duo bachata routines and their urban dance style, they also participate in several group project in salsa and bachata. Raphael has been teaching salsa and bachata in Montreal since 2016 and has been assisted by Sabrina since 2019. They have also created many duo and group choreographies for competitions and showcases.
Ig: @raphael_and_sabrina

Hunter and Valentina

Hunter and Valentina first crossed paths on the social dance floor in Montreal in 2022, where they instantly connected through their shared passion and undeniable chemistry. Both dancers bring a wealth of training to their partnership, including ballroom, Latin, ballet, and Afro-Cuban influences, which laid the foundation for their captivating connection and unique style.

Over the next couple of years, their encounters were sporadic but always filled with inspiration, creativity, and a deep appreciation for each other’s artistry. Then, in 2024, fate intervened at the Calgary International Salsa Congress when the organizers paired them as a last-minute entry for the professional salsa competition. Despite the short notice, Hunter and Valentina’s synergy shone brightly, earning them first place and highlighting their potential as a dynamic duo.

Encouraged by their success, Hunter and Valentina were invited to headline the Edmonton Salsa Bachata International Artist Weekender in April 2024, marking the official beginning of their teaching journey as partners. Since then, they have continued to refine their partnership, choreographing their first routine together and preparing to compete at the prestigious World Salsa Summit in January 2025.

Looking ahead, Hunter and Valentina are thrilled to be headlining all the Edmonton Salsa Bachata International Artist Weekender events through 2025 and are expanding their reach by teaching, performing, and inspiring dancers across Canada and the United States. Their classes are celebrated for their technical precision, creativity, and the joy they bring to the dance floor, making them a must-see duo at any salsa congress or festival.

Ana Lopez

Ana Karen is a 3x Manitoba Dance Festival Ballet Scholarship Recipient, and has won the highest overall score at the Canadian National Dance Championships for a pointe solo.
She has won several gold medals for Ballet, Pointe and Contemporary at world championships such as Vancouver, Montreal, Niagara Falls and Poland. She also attended the most prestigious ballet competition, Youth American Grand Prix in Chicago. Placing top twelve for both her ballet and contemporary solos.
Ana has won the Pro-Am Canadian Championships in Toronto, placed 1st at the Pro-Am World Salsa Championships in Miami, and placed 1st in the Professional WLDC qualifiers in Toronto for Pro Bachata Cabaret. Silver medalist for Pro Bachata in Miami.

Her primary efforts over the past several years have been focused on creating a Salsa kids dance program. She began Salsa kids with a curriculum focused on the fundamentals of Salsa, teaching teenagers all the way down to 2 year olds. Salsa Explosion Kids have won gold medals in solos, couple and team competitions in the past 3 years, at the Canada Salsa & Bachata Congress.

Ricky et Laura

Ricky Damier and Laura Lelièvre have been dancing in partnership for 3 years. Based in Montreal, Quebec, they create choreography and compet at the national and international level in salsa, bachata and kizomba. They were recwlently recepients of the Summit World Championship Bachata Cabaret Rising Star Champions as well as the Kizomba Professional Champions. and the Canada Salsa Congress to name a few. They have earned several other titles prior, such as the Amateur Advanced Bachata Champion at the Ultimate Latin Dance Championship in Las Vegas in 2022. Ricky&Laura regularly get coaching from internationally acclaimed artists to solidify their technique and choreography. They teach bachata and salsa in collaboration with multiple schools and events in Montreal, as well as workshops at events across Canada. From Ricky's Haitien roots to Laura's extensive technical training, they make a fire duo with a unique style and sets of skills. Recently turned at the professional level, they hope to continue pushing their limits and share their love for dance internationally. 

Jennifer Aucoin

Jennifer Aucoin is a full-time instructor, adjudicator, master trainer and event organizer. She is the founder and co-director of STEPS Dance Studio in Toronto and has taught workshops in Puerto Rico, Europe, South America, Mexico, the U.S. and across Canada. Jennifer is the founder and producer of the annual Canada Salsa & Bachata Congress now in its 19th year. Jennifer has judged world championships and elite competitions in Puerto Rico, New York, Ecuador, Las Vegas, Mexico, Orlando, Miami, Detroit, and throughout Canada. She has represented Canada on the judging panel at the ESPN World Salsa Championships, the World Salsa Summit and the World Latin Dance Cup.

Patrick and Scarlet

Patrick and Scarlet are 3 x Canadian Salsa champions, and multi-time world medalists at the World Salsa Summit.  Scarlet is also a world champion in the ladies same gender shines division.  As coaches they’ve produced numerous amateur world and national Salsa champions.  They reside in Vancouver Canada where they are the owners of Dance Vancouver Studio.

Natalia Beans

Natalia Beans has been dancing informally since the age of two, and formally since the age of six. She has been a member of Salsabrositas for the last 10 years, and the team captain for the last five. Competitively, she has been a World Junior/Amateur Salsa Champion since 2019. Natalia has choreographed more than 15 routines for Salsabrositas and their parent company, Salsabrosa. 

She is currently attending Marquette University on a full scholarship, studying pharmacy.

Hunter Houde

Hunter Houde is a celebrated Latin dance artist, instructor, and competitor based in New York City, with over 15 years of professional experience that spans international teaching, performing, and competition. Known for his technical precision, charisma, and powerful stage presence, Hunter has earned notable accolades, including two Rising Star championships and a recent title as the World Salsa Summit Vice Champion in the Professional Salsa On2 division with his partner, Judith Marie Petri. Their performance ranks among the top worldwide, marking them as a formidable duo in the competitive salsa scene.

Hunter’s diverse background in dance and the arts enriches his teaching and performance style. As a youth he trained extensively in martial arts achieving a second degree black belt in Tang Soo Do, a discipline that adds strength, agility, and focus to his dance.  After coming to New York,  Hunter spent formative years training many styles including  classical dances in Alvin Ailey, Ballroom Dance during his time working for Arthur Murray, and Afro Cuban dance with teachers in New York and Havana Cuba, traveling to Cuba three times for training.  In Salsa Hunter has trained under Eddie Torres,  Fanklin Díaz, Anya Katsevman and Adolfo Indacochea.   This diverse combination of training makes his performances powerful, unique and  unforgettable . His professional journey also includes appearances in film and theater: he danced in the ensemble of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Movie” In the Heights” and starred in lead roles in the off-Broadway production Carmen: To Havana and Back, showcasing his versatility as both an actor and dancer.

Beyond solo achievements, Hunter has been a vital member of premier teams like Balmir, Iroko, and Latin Soul Dancers, bringing his talent to multiple high-profile stages across North America. In workshops and social dance floors, Hunter’s teaching style emphasizes connection and musicality, empowering dancers of all levels to experience salsa’s rich cultural roots. His engaging instruction, rooted in both his musical and martial arts backgrounds, makes his classes a highlight at any event.

Whether he’s performing a high-energy showcase, teaching precise technical workshops, or connecting with dancers on the social floor, Hunter brings unmatched passion and professionalism to every event. His journey reflects a commitment to both artistry and community, making him a sought-after artist in the world of Latin dance.

Salsabrositas

Established in 2013, Salsabrositas is Wisconsin's youngest Latin dance team. Under the direction of Daniel Balderas and Jenniffer Sarda, The troupe consists of over 20 young dancers between the ages of 5 and 21 years old. They've had the honor of opening for: Luis Enrique, Brenda K. Starr, Leslie Grace, Toby Love, Karlos Rose, Tito Nieves, Andy Montañez, Elvis Crespo, La India and El Gran Combo De Puerto Rico.
Their mission is to provide affordable dance instruction to young people in the greater Milwaukee area, and to showcase their progress locally while raising funds for them to compete internationally.

Valentina Diaz

Born in Medellin, Colombia, Valentina has been dancing as long as she has been walking. From ballet and contemporary, to ballroom and commercial, she has explored and learned as much as life has allowed her before getting to the Latin dances world.
She’s been teaching, coaching and directing Volendi Dance Teams in Quebec City.

Her goal, is to put her knowledge in Dance and Psychology to the service of her students, by creating a safe space of growth and well-being. And while doing so, using the latin music and dance to keep her close to her roots.

Brielle Friedman

Brielle Friedman is a world champion dancer with competitive titles from the World Salsa Summit, World Latin Dance Cup, and Canada Salsa Congress. After graduating from Brown University, her dance career took her to San Francisco, New York City,  and finally, Los Angeles, where she founded Siempre Sol Dance to help women find confidence through creative practice and empowered self-expression. Known as one of Southern California’s top Salsa dancers, Brielle has performed in music videos, commercials, and at iconic venues like the Dream Hotel, Public Arts, and Stonewall Inn. Her dance style combines playful femininity with strong dance technique and power. Through Siempre Sol, Brielle invites her students to find their own power on and off the dance floor.

Annette Saucillo

Annette Saucillo is an On2 salsa instructor with 15 years of dance experience. Currently teaching in Orange County, CA, Annette focuses on ladies styling, mambo footwork, body movement, pachanga, cha cha and afro Cuban. She is known for her unique and elegant styling. Annette has performed at different Latin dance festivals throughout the USA such at LASF, LABKS, LVSF, SFSBK, RLDF, LAUSC to name a few. She was a featured instructor at LASF, SFSBK, and SacBSF Latin dance festivals. Director of diva Latin dance ladies team in Los Angeles and co-director of Estilo Mambo with Noel Rojas, Annette is passionate about salsa dancing. She's dedicated to inspiring others by sharing her talent, love, and knowledge of dance.  

Kimberly Parent

Kimberly Parent has been teaching, performing, and running her dance studio Saskatoon Salsa Dance Co. for over 16 years. Kimberly's passion for dancing has led her to many places, and in many creative directions. One of her life's purposes is to empower women to feel comfortable, confident, and sensual in their own bodies using salsa and bachata dancing as the medium. She has an online program called "Smokin' Hot Salsa - Dance Course for Women 40+© that pairs body confidence and self development with salsa dancing. Kimberly also heads up an annual dance excursion to Havana, Cuba, where participants immerse themselves in the culture and experience a life-changing experience through dance. Kimberly dedicates much of her time to the children and youth teams at Saskatoon Salsa, taking them to new heights in their dancing as well as travelling all over North America with them.

Saskatoon Salsa Dance Co. (SSDC)

Saskatoon Salsa Dance Co.(SSDC) is excited to be back performing and competing at the Calgary International Salsa Congress! SSDC will be bringing 7 different teams to the congress including their ladies, couples and children's teams. Established in 2005, Saskatoon Salsa proudly offers lessons for every demographic from three years old and up. Led by Kimberly Parent and her team of experienced and personable instructors, each of them believe that everyone can and should dance. Saskatoon Salsa is an inclusive and safe space for all and the main goal of the studio is to spread the love and passion for dance!

Shay and Serena

Shay Dixon & Serena Cuevas are an electrifying duo in the world of professional dance, reigning as World Champions, coaches and choreographers in the partner dancing industry. Hailing from diverse backgrounds but united by their love for Latin dance and partner dancing, Shay & Serena have captivated audiences worldwide through performance, their passion for detailed instruction, and their unparalleled talent.

Serena Cuevas, a luminary professional dancer, coach, and choreographer from New York, brings substantial talent, professionalism and expertise to their partnership. Renowned for her dynamic and precise styling across various Latin Club dances such as Salsa, Mambo, Latin Hustle, and ChaChaCha, Serena's illustrious career spans over two decades. With a remarkable journey that includes four World Championship titles and recognition as a Triple Threat champion, Serena's prowess extends beyond the stage. Having graced the sets of 'Dancing With The Stars' and starred in national campaigns like Gatorade's 'G2 Icon', Serena's influence transcends the dance floor. Her entrepreneurial spirit led to the establishment of Deseo Dance Company, a trailblazing venture that has become synonymous with excellence in women's styling. Now, as she transitions to a new chapter with 'Studio1 Consulting', Serena continues to shine as a soloist, esteemed judge, and partner to Shay Dixon, solidifying her status as a luminary in the dance industry.

Shay Dixon, a multifaceted professional dancer, actor, instructor, and choreographer, hails from Florida. With a career marked by versatility and innovation, Shay is revered as a driving force behind the resurgence of the hustle community worldwide. He's the director of the LA Hustle Movement and the visionary organizer of the LA Hustle Congress. Shay's journey in dance spans over two decades. His diverse training, which encompasses Ballet, Hip hop, Contemporary, Latin, Ballroom, Salsa, and West Coast Swing, reflects his commitment to understanding various forms of dance. Under the mentorship of Ralph Ramirez and Billy Fajardo, Shay has amassed an impressive collection of accolades. He has been undefeated in freestyle hustle championship events since 2017. He captured eight professional Championship titles in Hustle and Salsa, as well as the prestigious World Hustle Championship title in 2009. As a pivotal figure in the International Hustle Dance Association, Shay's leadership has shaped competitive standards and fostered a thriving global community. Today, while pursuing his passion for acting in Los Angeles, Shay continues to elevate the Hustle dance scene, alongside his partner Serena Cuevas, solidifying his legacy as an icon in the dance industry. 

Together as partners, Shay & Serena, bring a lot of forward momentum to Hustle dancing worldwide. They are expanding the Latin dance world by promoting Hustle and the benefits of 'crossover' dancing, at premier dance events. While introducing more structure to Hustle through training courses, they develop content for teachers, students, and dance enthusiasts. Shay & Serena are spearheading these ventures while both preserving the integrity and broadening the reach of Latin nightclub dances.

Temi Ambrose

Founder and owner of Golden Flame Dance Company! A very talented individual versatile in many different styles of dance with ballet and contemporary trained background  from various dance school in canada. 

Temi started dance as a kid from Nigeria to Canada and has been dancing for over 30years now. Temi has won many accolades of awards as a solo and duo dance. Two times pro world champions and as well as pro national champions as n Latin, ballroom, hip hop, Afrobeat and more.

Pedro and Claudia

Sazon Dance Company: Igniting Toronto with Latin fire and passion. The name "Sazon," meaning seasoning, embodies our commitment to infuse every dance with the vibrant, diverse, and dynamic essence of Latin culture, creating a flavorful and authentic experience in every movement for our performance teams and classes.

More Performers Coming Soon…

Daily Performances

THURSDAY

• Arri and Olivia - Saskatoon

FRIDAY

• Harold and Regan - Winnipeg

• Jhaime and Sacha - Montreal

• Salsa Rica Dance Company Bachata Team - Calgary

• Salsa Rica Dance Company Salsa Team - Calgary

• SSDC Diamond Team - Saskatoon

• SSDC Emerald Team - Saskatoon

• SSDC Las Mamacitas - Saskatoon

SATURDAY

• Alex y Judy - Colombia

• Alliance Dance Company - Montreal

• Billy and Ahtoy - Miami/New York

• Erika Saucillo Rivera - Los Angeles

• Harold and Regan - Winnipeg

• Jhaime and Sacha - Montreal

• Jon and Megan From Salsa Rica - Calgary

• Raphael and Sabrina - Montreal

• Salsa Rica Dance Company Semi Pro Team - Calgary

• SSDC Diamond Team - Saskatoon

• SSDC Emerald Team - Saskatoon

• SSDC Lioness Soul - Saskatoon

• Victor and Corinne - Montreal

SUNDAY

• SSDC Los Locos - Saskatoon

• SSDC Diamond Team - Saskatoon

• SSDC Saphire Team - Saskatoon

• SSDC Latin Team - Saskatoon

2025 Show Music Link

Performers, please upload your show music to the link below and please RENAME your song with the exact name listed on the performers tab of the CISC website. Upload your music at the latest by March 17th.