Summer 2023 Guest Instructors

Brett Schaffner

Brett is currently teaching: Linear Salsa
Starts June 5th, 4 week series
Mondays, 7-8 pm

Brett, your instructor for ‘Linear Salsa 101: Salsa Basics’, boasts an international journey in the world of salsa that began in 2013 while studying abroad in Costa Rica. Upon returning to the States, he formally honed his skills in Salsa On1 in Reno, Nevada, where he danced under the acclaimed Alma Latina and Island Touch franchises, working with dancers and organizers of the renowned Reno Latin Dance Fest, BB & Kiki.

Brett’s passion for salsa took him to Quito, Ecuador, where he continued to refine his craft with Tropical Dance Studio and Mambuco Dance Corp. His dedication led him to join the Mambu Gold Team in 2018, where he performed and competed extensively throughout Quito.

In late 2019, Brett ascended to new heights with his participation in the Latin Dance Project by Mambuco Dance Corp. He proudly represented Ecuador at the 2020 World Salsa Summit, where his team triumphed with first prize in both the Amateur Large Teams Salsa On 1 category and the Large Teams Same-Gender Salsa On 1 category, and claimed second place in the ProAm Large Teams Salsa On 1 category.

Since 2021, Brett has called Anchorage, Alaska, home. Under the mentorship of Ciro and Liz Anaya, he continues to expand his dance repertoire, focusing on Cuban dance rhythms and styles. With his rich, global experience and his deep love for salsa, Brett is excited to guide you on your salsa journey in ‘Linear Salsa 101: Salsa Basics’.


Bibi Mena

Bibi is currently teaching: Dominican Dances for Kids (see here) and Zumba
Zumba begins June 19th
Mondays, 6-7 pm

More info coming soon!


Makala Cruz

Makala is currently teaching: Salsa Style Series
August 7-28
Mondays, 8-9 pm

Makala was introduced to the Latin dance world when she was just 16 years old. Ten years later, she has become renowned for her passion of dance and inspires many. She has gained her experience and knowledge over the years from incredible leaders in our community, and around the world.


Alain Mata

Alain is currently teaching: Sensual Bachata Series
July 17-31
Mondays, 8-9 pm

More info coming soon!


Kazmere Devore

Kazmere is currently teaching: Private lessons
Sundays

Kazmere offers private lessons for Ballroom (DanceSport) mambo, chacha, samba, rumba, paso doble, swing, tango, foxtrot, Viennese waltz, waltz, sway style, polka, and country/western (bronze level), as well as foxtrot and waltz (silver level).