RastaSalsa Dance Introduce
Hello, Colorado locals! Are you ready to feel the rhythm, embrace the joy of movement, and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Latin dance right here in Aurora? Look no further than **RastaSalsa Dance**. This isn't just a dance studio; it's a dynamic hub where passion, authenticity, and community converge, all brought to life by the incredible energy of instructor Tom Ogunribido.
In our active Colorado lifestyle, finding ways to connect, express ourselves, and stay energized is key. RastaSalsa Dance offers a unique opportunity to do just that, bringing the "heartbeat of Salsa" to the Denver Metro area. Whether you're a complete beginner who's always dreamt of dancing, or an experienced dancer looking to deepen your connection to Latin rhythms, this studio provides a welcoming and inspiring environment.
The philosophy at RastaSalsa Dance, spearheaded by Tom "El RastaSalsa" Ogunribido, is rooted in making dance accessible, fun, and deeply meaningful. As a musician with Nigerian origins and over 20 years immersed in music and dance, Tom brings a profound understanding of rhythm and movement to his teaching. Combined with his technical background and empathetic approach, he breaks down complex concepts into easily digestible pieces, ensuring that every student, regardless of their learning style, can "get groovin' to the Latin vibes." This dedication to both excellence and an abundance of positive energy makes RastaSalsa Dance a cherished local destination for anyone in Colorado seeking the exhilarating experience of Latin dance.
RastaSalsa Dance is conveniently located at **12001 E 33rd Ave I, Aurora, CO 80010, USA**. This address places it within a well-established and accessible area of Aurora, making it convenient for residents throughout the city and the wider Denver Metro communities.
The studio's location on East 33rd Avenue in Aurora provides straightforward access from various parts of the city and neighboring areas. While specific public transportation details aren't always highlighted, major roads and local bus routes in Aurora generally offer connectivity, making it reachable for those relying on public transit. For individuals driving, the area typically provides ample parking, contributing to a hassle-free experience when attending classes.
Being situated in Aurora means RastaSalsa Dance serves as a valuable community resource, allowing locals to easily integrate vibrant dance classes into their schedules without extensive travel. Its presence helps enrich the local arts and culture scene, providing accessible opportunities for residents to engage with Latin dance traditions.
---RastaSalsa Dance offers a comprehensive range of Latin dance instruction, primarily focusing on Salsa and Bachata, with classes structured for various skill levels, ensuring a supportive and progressive learning journey for all.
- Salsa Classes: RastaSalsa Dance specializes in teaching LA (Los Angeles) style Salsa, which is popular for its linear slot movement, intricate turn patterns, tricks, and dips. Classes are offered at multiple levels:
- Absolute Beginner Salsa: Perfect for those with no prior dance experience, focusing on foundational steps and rhythm. These are typically offered on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at designated times.
- Salsa Level 1: Building upon the basics, for new dancers.
- Salsa Level 2: For intermediate dancers, expanding on techniques and combinations.
- Salsa Level 3: For advanced beginners, refining skills and introducing more complex movements.
- Salsa Level 4: For experienced dancers, delving into advanced patterns and musicality.
- Bachata Classes: Explore the sensual and rhythmic movements of Bachata, a popular Dominican social dance. Classes are available at:
- Absolute Beginner Bachata: Ideal for newcomers to the dance style.
- Bachata Level 1: Foundational steps and partner work.
- Bachata Level 2: Intermediate techniques and styling.
- Bachata Footwork: Dedicated classes to improve individual footwork and shines.
- Mambo Classes (Salsa On2): For those interested in a different feel for Salsa, Mambo (often referred to as Salsa On2) is offered, focusing on dancing on the second beat of the music, providing a smooth, fluid style. Classes are available at different levels, including Mambo Footwork and Mambo Level 3.
- Body Movement and Dance Techniques Classes: These classes focus on fundamental aspects of dance that enhance performance across all styles, including body isolation, styling, and musicality, helping dancers connect more deeply with the music.
- Private Lessons: Individually scheduled sessions for personalized instruction. This is ideal for accelerated learning, addressing specific challenges, or preparing for special events. Tom is known for offering semi-private lessons, even in students' homes, highlighting his flexible and dedicated approach.
- Social Dance Events: While not explicitly listed as a service, Latin dance studios often host social dance parties and events, providing opportunities for students to practice their skills in a relaxed, social environment and connect with the broader dance community.
RastaSalsa Dance distinguishes itself in the Colorado dance scene through several compelling features and the undeniable charisma and expertise of its lead instructor, Tom Ogunribido.
- Stellar and Inspirational Instructor (Tom Ogunribido): Tom is consistently described as a "stellar teacher," "clear, funny, vibrant," and someone who "makes learning something new a blast!" Customers express deep admiration, stating their "heart is just filled. Complete. Whole. I am inspired by all that Tom Ogunribido has brought and given to this community in Colorado and beyond." His in-depth knowledge of music (as a musician from Nigeria) combined with his technical background (as an engineer) allows him to "break down concepts" and "explain...in creatively different ways to connect with the various learning styles of the individual students."
- Vibrant and Authentic Latin Dance Experience: Tom is credited with bringing "so much color, light, love and soul, authenticity, truth, the heartbeat of Salsa" to the Denver Salsa Community. This highlights the genuine cultural immersion and energetic atmosphere students experience.
- Comprehensive Beginner-Friendly Programs: The studio offers "Absolute Beginner" classes for both Salsa and Bachata, ensuring that newcomers feel comfortable and supported from their very first steps. Reviews confirm the instruction is "very knowledgeable, upbeat, and illustrative... easy to follow for a newbie."
- Flexible and Personalized Instruction: The availability of private and semi-private lessons, including the willingness of Tom to "come to our home," showcases a commitment to meeting students' individual needs and preferences.
- Strong Community Building: Reviews emphasize the profound community impact, with the Salsa community described as "my blood, my heart, my family, my expression, prayer and healing." This indicates that RastaSalsa Dance fosters deep connections among its students, extending beyond just dance lessons.
- Passion for Spreading the Love of Dance: The overarching theme is Tom's genuine passion for dance and sharing it with others, transforming it into a joyful and enriching experience for all participants.
- Multiple Dance Styles and Levels: Offering Salsa (LA and On2/Mambo), Bachata, and specialized body movement classes across various levels, the studio caters to diverse interests and allows for continuous growth.
Ready to feel the rhythm and join the vibrant RastaSalsa Dance community? You can reach them using the following contact details:
Address: 12001 E 33rd Ave I, Aurora, CO 80010, USA
Phone: (720) 773-2259
Mobile Phone: +1 720-773-2259
For the most current class schedules, pricing, and to book your first lesson or private session, we highly recommend visiting their official website or contacting them directly by phone.
---For Colorado residents, especially those in Aurora and the wider Denver Metro area, RastaSalsa Dance is an exceptionally suitable and enriching destination for anyone passionate about Latin dance. Its unique blend of expert, joyful instruction from Tom Ogunribido, a truly vibrant community, and a commitment to authenticity makes it a local gem.
The testimonials from real customers powerfully illustrate why this studio resonates so deeply with locals. Tom is lauded as a "stellar teacher," who is "clear, funny, vibrant and makes learning something new a blast!" This engaging and accessible teaching style ensures that even absolute beginners feel comfortable and enthusiastic about learning. The flexibility to have "semi-private lessons" even at home speaks to the personalized care and dedication RastaSalsa Dance offers its students.
Beyond the technical instruction, the profound impact Tom has had on the "Denver Salsa Community" is evident. Describing it as "so much color, light, love and soul, authenticity, truth, the heartbeat of Salsa, which is indeed my blood, my heart, my family, my expression, prayer and healing," highlights that RastaSalsa Dance cultivates more than just dance steps; it fosters deep connections, emotional release, and a strong sense of belonging. In Colorado, where community and active lifestyles are highly valued, this aspect makes the studio incredibly appealing.
Whether you're looking for an energetic new hobby, a way to connect with others through movement, or a path to deepen your understanding of Latin culture, RastaSalsa Dance offers an unparalleled experience. It's a place where you'll not only learn to dance but also become part of a passionate, supportive "family." For anyone in Colorado ready to immerse themselves in the "5 Infinite Stars of Love, Respect and Adoration" that define this community, RastaSalsa Dance is the definitive choice.
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RastaSalsa Dance Reviews
Tom is a stellar teacher!! He was so kind to come to our home for a semi-private lesson. He is clear, funny, vibrant and makes learning something new a blast! I can’t wait to learn from him again!
Dec 28, 2022 · AmyMy heart is just filled. Complete. Whole. I am inspired by all that Tom Ogunribido has brought and given to this community in Colorado and beyond. I have been involved in the Denver Salsa Community since my transplant from Dallas-PA-MIA-NY. Since my involvement in 2012 Tom has brought so much color, light, love and soul, authenticity, truth, the heartbeat of Salsa, which is indeed my blood, my heart, my family, my expression, prayer and healing. 5 Infinite Stars of Love, Respect and Adoration. Thank you. Axé
Apr 05, 2020 · Kebrina Josefina De JesúsMy women's group activity for the month was the Beginners salsa class, the instructor Tom was good and kept the class moving. Definitely want to go back for more classes 💃🏽
Jun 27, 2022 · Nichole NicholeI’m new to the studio but it has been a great experience so far. Classes have been fun and engaging. I’m looking forward to improving my salsa skills 💃!
Jan 24, 2025 · J WillisI moved to Austin tx from Denver and I miss this dance studio SO much 😩 great instructor and loved the schedules available. If you are thinking of taking salsa do it here you won’t be disappointed but be warned, you might have a hard time finding a studio you love as much if you relocate.
Nov 18, 2024 · Kelly Schultz
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