Know Your Salseros OCTOBER 2009
It's time to get to know some more of our favorite salseros! This month I'd like to introduce to you Jenny Ingratta, who comes from another country to grace our dance floors at the YA socials and Sangria on Sunday nights. Jenny recently participated in her hometown of Windsor in a local version of "Dancing With the Stars". Also, meet dynamic David Jackson, who ladies literally have to stand in line to get a dance with. (Trust me... he's worth it!)
Name: Jenny Ingratta
Age: It is all a guessing game!
Where are you originally from (ethnicity): I am a second generation Italian-Canadian but I know I must have latin blood coursing through my veins!
How long have you been dancing: I would say approximately on and off for about 12 years
Where did you learn: It all started off with a basic salsa VHS tape from my local library (Yes, I said VHS, lol) and various classes and workshops through the years but also alot on my own by developing my own style
Where do you go out to dance: My favourite of course, is Sunday nights at Sangria..
What do you think could be done to expand the salsa scene: I think the YA socials and the local studios already have been doing a great job..I believe it really comes down to the local dancers themselves coming out of there own comfort zone and introducing and making more people feel welcome into the scene..it can be intimidating to some, let's do more to not make it that way.
What do you do aside from dancing: I love to travel, meet new people and do anything creative like baking, pottery, etc.
Your favorite song: La Salsa Vive by Tito Nieves..that song always gets me moving!
What advice would you give to someone who is new to salsa dancing: Experiment with as many different dance instructors as you can even if that means going on Youtube. Everyone as a different style and perspective but most important of all just go out and really enjoy the music and have fun!!
Name: David L. Jackson aka KAT
Age: 36
Where are you originally from (ethnicity): PERUVIAN
How long have you been dancing: 4.5 yrs
Where did you learn: I've never taken a class, I Just watch people.. people inspire me! ;0)
Where do you go out to dance: Anywhere I can get my SALSA on.. SKY CLUB, SANGRIA, YA SOCIALS, PI, CLUB TV, OHIO SOCIALS, GAS STATIONS, BEACHES, THE MOUNTAINS, REST STOPS I've even stopped the car and danced in the snow and rain! (Yes I'm that crazy!) and every once in a while THE CONGRESSES... I love them! ;0)
What do you think could be done to expand the salsa scene: First of all dance with everyone! The more people see you having fun the more likely they will come back and have fun with you. Second, I think just tell people about the scene. Once you get hook there is no coming back! LOL
What do you do aside from dancing: I'm an artist at heart! I do everything from drawings to 3d building on the computer, I teach initiatives and High Rope courses, I love playing and watching sports and once in a while just hanging with close friends.
Your favorite song: Hmmm, that's a hard one... I have plenty in my arsenal... It actually depends on my mood! I really love bachata a lot!!!
What advice would you give to someone who is new to salsa dancing: ...Dance, dance, dance...
Dance like no one is watching!!! The more you dance the more experience you get!
Just have fun!!! I do, and that's what most people like about me! (I think! LOL)
Also, trying not to emulate your teacher, rather take what they have to offer you and find the true dancer in yourself!!! Remember, dancing doesn't come from the feet, rather it comes from the heart!
