“Dance is the hidden language of the soul.”
Latispánica Cultural Association is thrilled to reintroduce our Dance School for its second term, where the vibrant spirit of Latin America comes alive through rhythm and movement!
After a successful first term, we’re excited to continue sharing the richness of Latin culture through dance. With over a decade of experience showcasing cultural dances and teaching diverse genres, we’re proud to grow this initiative and bring even more energy, connection, and culture to our community.
What to Expect This Term:
- A variety of class types featuring popular and traditional Latin American rhythms
- 8 weeks of engaging, high-energy dance classes
- Open to all ages and skill levels—everyone is welcome!
- A supportive, fun environment where you’ll learn, move, and connect
Whether you’re returning from Term 1 or joining us for the first time, we can’t wait to dance with you again. Let’s celebrate the joy, passion, and diversity of Latin culture—one step at a time!
Classes
Samba
Intermediate to Advanced level
Brazilian Samba is all about power, precision, and expression. In this high-energy class, you’ll develop the stamina, technique, and rhythm needed to master fast footwork, hip movement, and body control—making your Samba look effortless and feel truly alive on the dance floor.
Latin Urban Rhythms
Intermediate to Advanced level
Urbano music brings together today’s hottest Latin urban rhythms, blending Latin, Caribbean, African, and U.S. influences. This high-energy style includes genres like reggaeton, Latin trap, dembow, funk carioca, merengue urbano, Latin hip-hop, and RKT/cachengue. Rooted in urban culture and constantly evolving, Urbano celebrates rhythm, attitude, and movement—perfect for dancers who love bold beats and modern Latin vibes.
Meet Our Instructors
María José Marteli Medina
A talented dancer and choreographer from Yucatan, Mexico. María José brings over 20 years of experience in Latin Folk dance and Rhythms.
María José started dancing during her formative school years as part of the school curriculum. Her love for dance and natural ability to understand movement help her land a job as a professional dancer.
In 2008, María José had the opportunity to teach and perform Latin Folk dances for the Latin Community, that is today the Latispánica Cultural Association. Since then, María José has choreographed and performed in dozens of dances and continues to do so.
María José loves sharing her culture trough dance and believes everyone can dance.
Antonella Mora
Antonella is a passionate and versatile dancer with a strong love for performance and movement. She began her dance journey at 18 through K-pop choreography and leading cover groups, which sparked her dedication to dance. In 2018, she pursued formal hip-hop training, refining her skills and discovering a deep passion for reggaeton.
By 2019, Antonella expanded her training to include ballet, jazz, and belly dance while continuing hip hop. She competed in multiple dance contests, earning awards and valuable stage experience. In 2022, she began teaching as a substitute instructor, further developing her technique and leadership.
Today, Antonella is a dynamic, well-rounded dancer who loves sharing the energy and diversity of reggaeton and Latin rhythms. She is committed to inspiring others and growing the dance community through her passion and teaching.
Alex Caballero
Born and Raised in Mexico City, Mexico, Alex has always had Latin Dance as a core part of his life. He has studied a variety of dance styles including ballet, tap, hip hop and contemporary, but always had the most interest and passion for partner dancing like Salsa and Bachata. He performed several times during his college years in Mexico, and has built over 4 years of teaching experience since moving to Canada.
He was one of the main instructors from the University of Ottawa Salsa club (UOsalsa) and was also a guest instructor at Ottawa’s #1 Latin Social “Vibe Salsa”. In Halifax, he has volunteered for the past 2 years during the LatinFax performing cha cha, salsa choque, salsa casino and merengue!
Ruth Pérez
Ruth began her journey in the dance world way back in Perú with local folklore and different Latin rhythms . Her passion and energy brought her to be part of Latispánica’s choreographers and became a Zumba instructor for adults and kids.
Since she moved to Canada in 2006 she has participated in creating and performing different Latin styles for various events with Latispánica Cultural Association. Ruth brings fun and confidence to her students and she is thrilled to have the opportunity to share her experience, passion for dance and choreography with everybody. She cannot wait to see everyone do what they love.
Jean Fraser
Jean has been an active volunteer with Latispánica for over a decade, first as a dancer, then choreographer, and now as the Arts and Performances Officer. With 5 years of teaching experience, Jean believes everyone should feel the joy of dance and the thrill of performing!
She currently teaches Salsa and Bachata classes through Halifax Recreation and prides herself on creating a fun and inclusive learning environment.
