Tag: instructors

This has become my regular class, If you’ve met me at a social, you’ve probably already heard me big it up.

Authentic

I’ve yet to encounter a teacher in Newcastle with the experience and passion that this man has. His style is super-literate, interesting and authentic.

Don’t just take my word for it, though…

I feel that the style encourages the student not to simply memorize a sequence of moves but to feel the music and build a connection between leader and follower.

Yersin’s classes are very animated and physical, and are injected with lots of culture to give the moves context.

Regulars are friendly and chatty. Once you’ve got the basics down as a smaller class, you can expect to be challenged and pushed to improve.

Chris’ classes and socials draw a large and diverse crowd  of regulars. His warm charisma and unique brand of humour keeps people coming back, as well as getting them up dancing at the end of the night.

The pace of the classes feel more laid back then other classes I’ve attended, especially for beginner levels. The technicality soon ramps up for the more advanced routines, which you are quickly encouraged to stay for.

Chris Pentland DJing at Black Swan

What initially attracted you to Salsa?

I was bored doing the same thing every Friday night so I told my friends I was staying in but was sneaking out to salsa. I got the initial feeling whilst travelling South America.

Favourite salsa track of all time?

Sonido bestial by Richie Ray & Bobby Cruz for the sheer energy and musical theatre it brings

Your golden rule?

Never leave your t-shirts in the washing machine too long before they’re dried. Once you dry them you think you’re ready to go soon as you get onto your fourth dance and heat passes through them you smell like a pair of tramps kegs…night ruined 

I couldn’t recommend Chris’ classes enough for beginners, and his social events are popular through no accident.

I’ll be listing all regular events on the where to dance page!

Every week kicks off with Sam’s party in Passing Clouds, attracting a medium sized group of mixed ages and abilities looking to opt out of the Monday Blues in favor of something decidedly more upbeat.

Sam Mills with, his dance partner, Natalie

My first class with Sam (and his cheeky partner, Natalie) was actually above Paradiso. The new venue, however, has been used for a couple of months now, and draws in extra dancers for the social. The raised stage allows Sam to more effectively demonstrate his footwork.

Sam has been on the scene for over seven years, initially promoting the Salsa / Bachata scene on Facebook. He’s a regular at the congress and has built up a dedicated band of regular students.

Sam’s teaches a Cross Body Salsa that emphases hook turns and intricate leads that will have the guys turning as much as the ladies.

Teaching a very smooth and polished style, which despite looking effortless, I found quite challenging. The routines are short, in-depth and build on-top of one another over the weeks.

Without feeling overwhelmed, I quickly felt I had a nice repertoire which was usable at socials.

I find the length of the classes just right. Sam and his partner are warm and welcoming, and always open to answer questions.

Overall a good relaxing night, with a deceptively steep learning curve.