Instructors 2027 confirmed!
Javier Escobar
From El Salvador to New York and Warsaw, Javier Escobar has built an international career around mambo, salsa, and the art of musical expression.
Javier Escobar is a world-renowned sambo and salsa dancer, performer, and instructor whose style combines precision, musicality, charisma, and a powerful sense of rhythm.
Born and raised in El Salvador, Javier’s professional journey took him to New York, where he became a member of Latin Soul Dancers, the internationally respected professional team led by salsa icon Adolfo Indacochea. His years within this environment helped shape the technical foundation and musical approach that have become hallmarks of his dancing.
A multi-time World Salsa Champion, Javier has established himself as both an exceptional performer and a highly sought-after teacher. His dancing is rooted in mambo tradition while embracing the individuality, energy, and freedom that make the style so captivating.
Paulina Escobar
Elegance, power and musicality — movement with character and purpose.
Paulina Kropisz is a professional Salsa and Mambo dancer, performer, and instructor with more than 15 years of experience. Specializing in Salsa Mambo On2, body movement and styling, she has developed a unique dance language that combines technical precision with elegance, musicality and individuality.
Her passion for dance has taken her through years of intensive training in Poland and abroad, including training in New York, one of the world's great homes of Mambo. Today, Paulina is an established artist and teacher within the international Mambo community, performing and teaching at festivals, congresses and events in Poland and across Europe.
Yohan Ramos
From the Cabaret Tropicana to festivals across half of Europe: nearly forty years dancing what he learnt in the streets of Cuba and perfected on stage. Trained in the arts and crafts schools of Havana, Yohan went through the training school and the Cabaret Tropicana itself before becoming a company soloist. Since 2009, he has toured stages across Europe as a teacher and guest artist. A specialist in Afro-Cuban dance and in everything born from that root — salsa, son, timba, reparto, bachata, rueda de casino — he brings the same idea to every event: the audience should not watch the dance; they should step into it.
Today he runs his own dance school in Bilbao, together with Maya.
Maya Dalmau
Maya brings together the discipline of Cuba’s legendary show-school tradition, the strength and athleticism of a fitness-trained body, and a stage presence that reaches every corner of the room.
She trained at Havana’s National School of Musical Shows (E.N.E.M.) and the Cabaret Tropicana Training School before joining Compañía Yoldace as a soloist. Years spent in fitness, aerobics and Zumba further developed the versatility, stamina and physicality she brings to every performance.
Her repertoire moves effortlessly from root Afro-Cuban rhythms to competition bachata, with her versatility proven on the international stage as a World Champion at La Negra Salsa.
Whether she is performing, teaching, or hosting, Maya brings the same unmistakable energy. Her workshops are dynamic, engaging, and built to get everyone involved — nobody stays seated.
Javier Jiménez
Javier Jimenez was born in Havana, Cuba. He started his dance career at the age of twelve at the art school in the city of Cienfuegos, Cuba. In 2003, he graduated as a professional dancer of contemporary dance and folklore at The National Art School (ENA) in Havana. Once finished his studies, he joined the dance group Yoldance; this company made several tours in Germany with the musical Viva Cuba! After some years dancing in Cuba, he packed his luggage and moved to Salamanca, Spain. Here he is working as an instructor of Latin dances. Javier is also a choreographer and a dancer in the famous dance group Fusion Latina. This group has won the Spanish Bachata Master Team and been runners-up in the World Bachata Masters Teams. Javier is well known for bringing joy and energy into his classes, but at the same time making it easy for students to understand the techniques and moves.
Jennifer Fojaco
Coming soon. Jennifer Fojaco was born in Cienfuegos, Cuba. Since the age of eleven, she started her career as a professional dancer at the School of Arts Benny More, in Cienfuegos. In 2003, she graduated as a professional dancer from the Musical Shows National Art School (ENA) in Havana. After some years working in different dance groups in Havana, she moved to Spain and joined the company of Adrian and Anita in Barcelona. Here she obtained third place in the Championship of Spain by groups. After moving to Salamanca, she teamed up with the company Fusion Latina. This group has twice won the title Bachata Team Master of Spain and runners-up in the world bachata group championship.
In addition to performing, Jennifer runs the biggest dance school in Salamanca with her partner, Javier. There, she is teaching classes such as salsa, bachata, ballet, jazz, and modern dance. In her classes, you will notice the quality of her teaching and how she conveys it to her students...
Virginia Galan
Virginia Galán is an international Bachata artist, performer, and instructor known for her elegance, musicality, and expressive style.
With a strong passion for movement and partner connection, Virginia brings a refined yet energetic approach to her dancing. Her style combines technique, body movement and musical interpretation, creating performances that are both powerful and captivating.
As a dancer and teacher, Virginia places great emphasis on connection, musicality and individual expression. Her classes are designed to help dancers understand the movement rather than simply memorize choreography, giving them the confidence to express themselves naturally on the dance floor.
Virginia regularly performs and teaches at festivals, congresses and dance events internationally. Together with her dance partner Edu Oyola, she has developed a dynamic partnership that combines strong technique, chemistry and a shared passion for Bachata.
Whether on stage or in the classroom, Virginia brings warmth, energy and attention to detail — inspiring dancers to connect with the music, their partner and themselves
Edu Oyola
Edu Oyola is an international Bachata artist, performer, and instructor known for his energy, musicality, and dynamic style.
With a strong focus on connection, technique and musical interpretation, Edu brings both precision and personality to the dance floor. His dancing combines powerful movement with a natural ability to connect with his partner and the music.
As a teacher, Edu believes that great Bachata is built on connection, confidence and musicality. His classes go beyond choreography, helping dancers understand the principles behind the movement and develop their own style.
Edu performs and teaches internationally, sharing his passion for Bachata at festivals, congresses and workshops around the world. Together with Virginia Galán, he forms a dynamic partnership whose performances are characterized by chemistry, energy and expressive movement.
Whether teaching a workshop or performing on stage, Edu brings enthusiasm, professionalism and a genuine love for the dance — inspiring students to become more confident, musical and connected dancers.
Vera Duarte
Musical, playful, and expressive, Vera Duarte brings a fresh energy and distinctive personality to the bachata floor.
Originally from Portugal and now based in Norway, Vera discovered bachata as a powerful new form of expression. What began as a personal passion quickly developed into a serious artistic journey, taking her from the social dance floor to international competitions, performances, and teaching.
With a natural connection to music and a strong curiosity for movement, Vera has developed a style that combines musicality, creativity, footwork and authentic expression.
Musicality and footwork are at the heart of Vera's teaching. Her workshops are energetic and interactive, often built around unexpected concepts that challenge dancers to step outside their usual patterns and explore their own creativity.
Dixie Grace
Dixie was born in Chile and raised in Norway. She began dancing at an early age, starting with ballet at six. Over the years, she has explored a variety of dance styles, including jazz, ballet, hip hop, commercial, and heels, to name a few.
At 17, she discovered salsa in Kristiansand and quickly fell in love with the dance. She soon began teaching at Kristiansand Salsaklubb, later continuing at SalsaSi Danseskole, and now teaches at Salsakompaniet in Oslo.
Dixie has taught a wide range of classes over the years, including Cuban Salsa, La Rueda, Bachata, Cha Cha Cha, Salsa On1, Salsa On2, Ladystyling, Latin Fusion, and Shines/Footwork. She has also performed both as part of a couple and in various show teams in couples, lady styling teams, and has also appeared on television at the MGP song contest.
She is passionate about teaching and dedicated to helping her students grow and develop while having fun. Seeing her students evolve is what motivates her the most.
Iselin Jansen Ruiz
Iselin is a versatile dancer, choreographer, and educator passionate about rhythm. She began dancing at the age of four, training in ballet, jazz, hip-hop, salsa, and house before discovering her true calling at 16—tap dance. Since then, she has become one of Norway’s leading figures in the tap dance and jazz scene, and later on the Mambo scene.
In addition to her tap expertise, Iselin has developed a strong foundation in New York Mambo. She has trained extensively in the style and is now one of the few dancers in Norway specializing in both Mambo and Tap. She co-owns A-custica Dance Academy alongside her husband, Alexis Ruiz, a world-renowned mambo dancer, musician, and choreographer. Together, they have built a cultural hub in Oslo that preserves and develops Afro-Caribbean rhythms, Latin Jazz, and jazz dance traditions.
Iselin regularly teaches and performs at international festivals, blending her tap and mambo knowledge to explore the deep connection between rhythm, movement, and musicality. Her ability to fuse these styles makes her a unique presence in the dance world, offering a fresh perspective on both disciplines.
Alexis Ruiz
Alexis is a world-renowned mambo dancer, musician, and educator with over 30 years of experience. Originally from Guatemala, he grew up surrounded by Latin music and dance, teaching from the age of 12.
Now based in Norway, Alexis is the co-founder of A-custica Dance Academy, the country's only school specializing in Mambo and Tap, where he is the head of the Mambo department. He is also the founder of Allure Dance Company, Norway’s first mambo dance company, which has toured across Europe, showcasing his signature choreographic style that blends tradition, storytelling, and intricate rhythms.
Alexis is internationally known for his unique approach to musicality in dance, offering in-depth lectures and masterclasses that explore the roots of salsa and mambo, the connection between movement and sound, and the rhythmic structures that shape the dance. His methodology has influenced dancers worldwide, and his Mambo Masterclass concept continues to set new standards for musical interpretation.
Through A-custica and his Nordic Mambo Project, Alexis is shaping the future of mambo in the Nordic region, inspiring dancers to connect with the music on a deeper level. Don't miss the chance to learn from him at the Nordic Salsa Congress!.
Marie Myhre
Marie has danced since she was young, and started early with swing. She has since attended hip hop, breakdancing, ballet, sports dance, and was on the national team in rhythmic gymnastics. Marie lived in Spain in 2003, where she met Korke and discovered bachata. Since then, Marie has been a major promoter of the bachata environment in Oslo, especially in the last six years. She has had the pleasure of working with several international artists at various workshops and congresses, and is constantly working to develop herself.
Marie has 2 certifications from the bachata Influence Academy and also completed the Dancelab Academy with Gero and Migle. She is full of energy and always has a smile on her face. Her goal is to make the lessons fun and educational.
Livan Eduardo
Livan Eduardo is a highly skilled dancer, instructor, and choreographer with a rich background in the performing arts, originally from Camagüey, Cuba. His passion for dance started at nine. His commitment to dance led him to the Universidad de las Artes in Havana, where he earned a degree in Afro-Cuban dance.
In 2014, Livan moved to Norway, where he continued his career as a jazz dancer and pedagogue at the Norwegian College of Dance (Norges Dansehøyskole). In 2016, Livan founded his school, Salsa-Casino, where he developed a unique method to teach Cuban Salsa.
Livan's extensive experience, passion, and commitment to Cuban culture
continue to inspire and connect people through dance, making him a key
figure in both Cuban and Norwegian dance communities.
Riki Herrera
Riki Herrera is a bachata artist, dancer, and teacher. Born in Colombia and growing up in Spain, he has been dancing bachata for 10 years. For the last couple of years, Riki has been living in Oslo, where he has played a significant role in the rapid growth of the bachata scene. He has worked at different dance schools and is today teaching at Rhythm.
Riki is a certified instructor for bachata sensual and bachata influence. He loves and dances all bachata styles. This is reflected in his classes, where he uses the various styles to match the music. He is known for his presence, care, and soft leading on the dancefloor and in classes.
Ingeborg Brøyn
Ingeborg started dancing salsa in 2014 and quickly became hooked on the festival scene. She taught salsa and bachata at various dance clubs in Bergen before co-founding the dance school We Dance Bergen in 2018. At We Dance Bergen, she taught salsa, bachata, mambo, and lady styling for about six years, with a more recent focus on bachata sensual.
In December 2024, she moved to Oslo, where she began teaching mambo and bachata lady styling at Salsakompaniet. She also performs with the Ladies & Gents of Oslo show team. Her most recent performance took place at the Berlin Salsa Congress in August 2025. Ingeborg is passionate about helping students improve their technique in social dancing, while ensuring they enjoy the journey and the joy of dance along the way..
Kamelia Javadi
Kamelia is a dance artist with a background in Hip-Hop, Dancehall, and Afrobeats. Over time, she has developed a strong passion for Cuban salsa. In February 2024, she performed in the concert theatre production Hope Road 56 Revisited, produced by Nordic Black Theatre, a tribute to the legendary Bob Marley at the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet.
Kamelia has also been a member of Tabanka Dance Ensemble, where she performed African and Caribbean contemporary dance. With the company, she appeared in productions such as Limbo (2017) at the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet, I:OBJECT (2018), and Jazz Ain’t Nothing but Soul (2021) at Dansens Hus. In 2023,
Kamelia toured Norway and Europe with Impure Company/Hooman Sharifi in the production Sacrifice While Lost in Salted Earth.
Bjørn Are Therkelsen
Bjørn Are is a dedicated salsa instructor and choreographer from Oslo who teaches salsa (On1 and On2) weekly at Salsakompaniet. With a background in sports—particularly volleyball, which he played at Norway’s top level for four years—Bjørn Are was forced to retire due to a knee injury. This led him to a new passion: dance. His first encounter with Latin rhythms took place at NTNUI in Trondheim, where he quickly immersed himself in the various styles of salsa. Over the next four years, he devoted himself to learning, choreographing, and teaching. In 2021,
Bjørn Are moved to South Korea, primarily to dance but also to study. There, he became part of Inwoo Choi’s mambo group, performing in both solo and partner dance shows. After returning to Oslo, he began teaching at Salsakompaniet and now manages the show team Ladies and Gents of Oslo, designed to elevate the top level of salsa dancing in Oslo. The choreographies are rooted in social dancing and can be transferred to the social dance floor through lead-and-follow principles.
Evgeniy Tantserev
Based in Oslo, Evgeniy Tantserev is an experienced dancer and instructor whose journey began in the world of competitive Standard and Latin dance before evolving into Salsa and Bachata.
Today, Evgeniy is particularly active in the Bachata and Bachata Sensual scene in Oslo.
His approach combines technical clarity with musicality, body movement, and connection. He has taught workshops and collaborated with other established dancers in Oslo, helping contribute to the growth of the local Bachata community.
His classes are designed to give dancers practical tools they can immediately take to the social dance floor — while developing a deeper understanding of how and why the movement works.
Eva Maria Tavina
Eva Maria Travina is an experienced Bachata and Bachata Sensual dancer and instructor, and a long-standing part of Oslo’s Latin dance community.
Known for her warm energy, musicality, and natural connection, Eva Maria believes that great partner dancing is about more than steps — it is about communication, listening, and enjoying the music together.
She has taught and performed at dance events in Oslo for many years, including workshops in collaboration with Evgeniy Tantserev. Her teaching combines connection, body movement, musicality, and partnerwork, helping dancers become more confident and expressive on the social dance floor.
With her welcoming personality and genuine passion for Bachata, Eva Maria creates classes where technique meets connection — and where everyone is encouraged to enjoy the dance.