Do I need a partner | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
You do not need to book with a partner as our booking system balances the number of men and women booked onto the course.
Couple will be required to mix and change partners throughout the day.
There are three main reasons for this policy:
Salsa is a social dance where the 'club culture' is to change partners and dance with many people within the club. The Salsa Rapido method is obliged to reflect the local club culture within our classes.
You will learn faster and better by dancing with many different dancers. The more you can experience a wide range of leading / following skills the better you are prepare for the clubs. Also within a class good practice is spread through changing partners, where couple that stay together often compensate for one bad practice with another. This would make it difficult to dance with anyone else.
In a full day course relationships can be strained through over familiarity with each other. This often leads to unpleasant exchanges.
If you have issues relating to you or your partner dancing with other people, this course and maybe salsa dancing in general may not be for you.
Booking a course | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Booking:
In order to balance the numbers of men and women attending, the courses are advance booking only.
Our online booking system accepts credit and debit cards via the secure SagePay payment gateway. I never see your credit card details, but this means I cannot take your credit card details over the phone.
Currently Streetbeat Gift Vouchers are booked via the telephone 07939 012231
Changing a Booking:
Once booked, you are committed to coming and if you don't show no refund will be given.
However, if you need to postpone please call me (don't email) with as much notice as possible and I will do what I can to help. My priority is to those attending the course regarding balanced numbers of men and women etc.
I charge a fee for transferring a booking:-
Transfers with 3 days or more notice = £10 per person.
Transfers with 2 days or less notice = £15 per person.
Oxford Salsa Intensive | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
The Salsa Rapido 1-Day Intensive Course for Beginners comes to Oxford on
Saturday 25th February 2023.
It’s a full day of salsa followed by an optional, free intro to Mambalsa Dance.
Quick start your way into salsa dancing with the Salsa Rapido 1-Day Intensive course.2019
It’s the first and the most successful course of its kind available with over 10,000 people having attended. It's been awarded the TripAdviser Certificate of Excellence 2019 and the TripAdviser Travellers Choice 2022.
Whether you dance for fun, friendship or just to feel fabulous the day definitely lives up to Salsa Rapido’s strapline: The fast n’ fun way into salsa.
Goal: Get through the beginners level in a day so you can go dancing, and have a heap of fun along the way Style: There are several significant regional styles of salsa and Salsa Rapido draws from them all to form a foundation course totally relevant to all styles. In addition there’s an exploration of the psychology of social dancing and it’s benefits. Presented by: Alastair Sadler professional salsa teacher since 1995. Location: Old Fire Station Arts Centre, 40 George St. Oxford OX1 2AQ map link Times: Doors open at 10am for 10.30pm start until 4.30pm (lunch 1.30-2.30pm) Attire: Comfortable clothes and shoes ideally smooth soled. Cost: £49 singles and £79 couples with offer code ‘2023’
Couples are one leader and one follower and everyone swaps partners.
The booking system does its best to balance the number of leaders and followers.
Included Free is my Intro to Mambalsa 5-6pm (same location)
Mambalsa is a new partner dance that is easy to learn and works to any 4:4 time music.
Everyone leads and follows and it comes with an ethos of well-being at its heart.
To book click Book Now! and choose a Oxford date
Beginners 1-Day Intensive Salsa | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Welcome to the Salsa Rapido 1-Day intensive salsa course.
Five hours of expert salsa tuition in a single day so you get beyond the basics sooner and better. The Salsa Rapido 1-Day Intensive is the first and most successful course of its kind in the world. It combines clear communication, fun and psychology so you not only know the ‘how ‘ of salsa but the ‘why’.
The course is led by Alastair Sadler who’s been teaching salsa professionally since 1995.
The Salsa Rapido course is held at London's iconic Salsa Soho!, the original Bar Salsa, located in Charing Cross Rd near Leicester Square and Tottenham Courst Road tube stations.
For Improvers full day salsa courses visit
Salsa Rapido i2i courses
Prices Held for Salsa Rapido 1-Day Intensive Courses (including Gift Vouchers).
‘Couples now £79 saving £51! Offer code ‘2025’
‘Singles’ now £49 saving £16! Offer code ‘2025’
For Gift Vouchers, no offer-code is required.
Vouchers are valid for bookings made within six months. (I'll always extend if you ask :) Gift Vouchers
Our Guarantee | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
We offer a simple no quibble guarantee.
If you do not feel, for any reason, that you have achieved the level to wished,
you may repeat the course within two months for FREE.
Our business is to teach salsa so that people can enjoy the salsa scene.
For some people it takes a second go at the course before they're ready to move on.
Our guarantee is there as a safety net for those who might struggle.
Those who choose to use the guarantee find it very easy second time around.
People can also use it to be with friends that they have recommended to book.
Cambridge Salsa Intensive | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Salsa Rapido 1-Day Intensive Course for Beginners comes to Cambridge.
Hello Cambridge!
It’s time to get salsa off the to-do-list and onto the dance floor.
I’m delighted to announce that the Salsa Rapido 1-Day Intensive Salsa Course for Beginners is coming to Cambridge on Saturday 11th February 2023.
It’s a wonderful experience and definitely lives up to Salsa Rapido’s strapline: The fast n’ fun way into salsa.
This course is usually held in Soho London. It's now in it's 20th year and was not only the first intensive salsa course in the world but is certainly the most successful.
In 2019 it was awarded the TripAdviser Certificate of Excellence 2019 and TripAdviser Travellers Choice 2022.
Goal: Get through the beginners level in a day so you can go dancing, and have a heap of fun along the way.
To gain an understanding of salsa through the perspectives of the mechanical (what to do), relational (how we interact) and psychological (our emotional response). Style: There are several significant regional styles of salsa and Salsa Rapido draws from them all to form a foundation course totally relevant to all styles. In addition there’s an exploration of the psychology of social dancing and it’s benefits. Presented by: Alastair Sadler professional salsa teacher since 1995. Times: Arrive 10am for 10.30pm start until 4.30pm (lunch 1hr) Saturday February 11th 2023 Attire: Comfortable clothes and shoes ideally smooth soled. Cost: £49 singles and £79 couples with offer code ‘2023’
Couples are one leader and one follower and everyone swaps partners.
You can book as a couple or as single and the booking system does a fine job of balancing the number of leaders and followers. Location: Holiday Inn (North Cambridge) Lakeview, Bridge Rd, Impington, Cambridge CB24 9PH Google Map Link
We’ve found a great dance studio inside the Holiday Inn, so there’s free and easy parking for drivers and it’s less than 15mins bike ride from central Cambridge.
Times: Doors open 10am 10.30 - 4.30pm
To book click Book Now! and choose a Cambridge date
Download Fact Sheet | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
To make life a little easier I've put all the infomation about the London 1-Day Intensive courses in a single PDF file for you to download or view.
Balanced Men and Women | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Balanced numbers of men and women are essential for a full day course.
It prevents you chopping and changing from leader to follower or sitting out part of the time.
Note- All advanced salsa dancers can lead and follow. It about acquiring skills not gender.
Most people expect and are comfortable to learn the traditional roles first.
You do not need to book with a partner as our booking system balances the number of men and women booked onto the course. Sometimes I have to form a waiting list if too many men or women want to book. Please don't be put off by the waiting list as we nearly always offer places to everyone on the list. Generally ladies book early (they're organised) and men book late! The waiting list covers the gap in the middle. We also use the waiting list to make up for last minute transfers etc.
Couples will be required to mix and change partners throughout the day. (not optional)
There are three main reasons for this:
Salsa is a social dance where the 'club culture' is to change partners and dance with many people within the club. The Salsa Rapido method is obliged to reflect the local club culture within our classes.
You will learn faster and better by dancing with many different dancers. The more you can experience a wide range of leading / following skills the better you are prepare for the clubs. Also within a class good practice is spread through changing partners, where couple that stay together often compensate for one bad practice with another. This would make it difficult to dance with anyone else.
In a full day course relationships can be strained through over familiarity with each other. This may lead to unpleasant exchanges.
If you have issues relating to you or your partner dancing with other people, this course and maybe salsa dancing in general may not be for you.
Locations in London | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Courses may be held at other locations depending on the date.
You can check the location here... View Course Dates
Please go to the correct one :-)
Our main location is:
Salsa! Soho
96 Charing Cross Rd
Leicester Square,
London WC2H 0JG Map Link
Tube: Leicester Square or Tottenham Court Road
Why go on a full day course | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Reasons for the 1-Day Intensive, as opposed to a longer weekly course are :
Hate the idea of weeks at beginners level.
Catching up a friend who can already dance salsa.
Certain to drop out of regular classes before getting to 'club Standard'
Get fit / change of life style.
Going on holiday to a salsa region.
Getting married (first dance)
Is online booking secure | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Our on-line booking system is as secure as possible.
In fact we no longer see your credit card details, ever!
Our system rounds up the details of how many people, how much to pay and which date etc. Then you and this information is sent to our payment company called Sage Pay who process your card details and then send you back to us.
The drawback with this system is that we cannot take your credit card details over the phone.
Why do you have waiting lists | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
We want to offer the best course possible and that means balanced numbers of men and women (see why have balanced numbers).
Please don't be put off by the waiting list as we nearly always offer places to everyone on the list.
Generally ladies book early (they're organised) and men book late! The waiting list covers the gap in the middle.
We also use the waiting list to make up for last minute transfers etc.
Everyone dances with everyone | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
In many social partner dances there is a culture of training and practising with the same partner. This is understandable with a competition based dance such as Ballroom and Latin. Salsa is not competition based, it is social based which means we dance for fun and to be social. In salsa it is normal to dance with lots of different people and so the Salsa Rapido Intensive courses reflect this through having everyone dance with everyone.
If dancing with other people is unacceptable to you or your partner please do not book a course.
There will of course be plenty of opportunities during the day to dance with your partner, and after the course it’s completely your choice as to whom you dance with.
From a teaching perspective there are several reasons why dancing with everyone is a faster way to learn:
1- Many of the salsa course’s exercises only work through changing partners.
2- If something works when you dance with lots of people, it shows that you’ve really got it. Dancing with only one person may mean that person is compensating for you and reinforcing an error.
3- Co-regulation is a core skill that is best developed with strangers as there’s no pre-existing relationship to muddy the water.
4- Familiarity breeds contempt, is so true when it comes to dancing with your loved one. People say and act in ways that they would never dream of when dancing with a stranger.
5- Not everyone is the same size or shape and you need to experience all shapes and sizes.
6- Meeting other people is one of the key benefits of social salsa dancing.
7- Meeting new people and quickly building a good relationship through empathetic communication is an extremely valuable life skill. Social partner dancing is an excellent way to practice that skill.
Salsa Soho location | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Salsa! Soho
96 Charing Cross Rd
near Leicester Square
London WC2H 0JG Map Link
Tube: Leicester Square or Tottenham Court Road (It's half way between them)
Courses are held different locations depending on the date.
Other locations and date's can be checked here: Locations in London
If you are unsure please text me 07939012231 but I cannot reply after 10am on the day of the course :-)
Salsa Temple location | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Salsa! Temple
Temple Station,
Victoria Embankment,
London WC2R 2PH Map Link
Tube: Temple
Salsa Rapido courses are held different locations depending on the date.
Other locations and date's can be checked here: Locations in London
If you are unsure please text me 07939012231 but I cannot reply after 10am on the day of the course :-)
Oxford Old Fire Station Location | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Old Fire Station Arts Centre,
40 George St.
Oxford OX1 2AQ map link
Star of Kings location | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
The Star of Kings is a shabby chic bar/club in the heart of London's King Cross cultural area.
Only eight minutes walk from Kings Cross tube it located close to King Place theater and Granary Square.
Star of Kings
126 York Way,
Kings Cross,
London N1 OAX
Salsa Rapido courses are held different locations depending on the date.
Other locations and date's can be checked here: Locations in London
If you are unsure please text me 07939012231 but I cannot reply after 10am on the day of the course :-)
Glasgow Salsa Intensive | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
After over twenty years of teaching salsa in London, Alastair Sadler brings the fast ‘n fun Salsa Rapido® teaching method to Glasgow. Thursday 18th January 2018 Glasgow Salsa Intensive.
An evening of intensive three hour salsa workshops 7pm to 10pm.
Location: Sloans, The Argyll Arcade, 108 Argyle St, Glasgow G2 8BG, use Glasgow Central or Argyle St. Map Link
Book as a single or a couple, the booking system balances the numbers of men and woman.
Open for ages 18+
Prices:
£35 singles
£50 couples*
£30 University Students BOOK NOW! * a couple is defined as one leader and one follower, traditionally: one man and one woman. All leaders dance with all followers and vica versa.
Salsa Rapido® method uses humour and popular psychology to speed your learning, making it a fast, fun alternative approach to learning salsa. It’s aim is to get you up to ‘club competence’ and beyond as soon as possible, while helping you to avoid many of the bad habits and pitfalls.
Salsa Rapido method works for all regional styles of salsa, enabling you to dance with anyone from anywhere.
For Beginners:
Salsa Rapido is simply the fastest and most fun way into salsa, so let’s get dancing.
There’s no slog and no stress just easy core moves and clear explanation.
We’ll pinpoint the skills of leading, following, looking good and having fun on the dance floor.
I’ll introduce you to the seven rules that make salsa a lot less complicated.
You’ll gain a clear insight into where style and your confidence comes from, why things go wrong and a practical approach to going from clunky to mastery.
If I’ve missed something just call/text me on 07939012231
Reviews:
Check out my 5 star reviews on TripAdviser I LOVED IT. Alistair is a gifted teacher. He makes everyone feel great. Even the absolute beginners were bobbing along fine. I enjoyed the exercises which were playful and easy. And made me understand how the emphasis on different beats within the salsa rhythm can change. Is that why different men dance so differently? And I loved every word that Alistair explained about theory. A fountain of knowledge.
THANK YOU! Please come back soon!
B. Edinburgh (from my last course in Edinburgh Oct. 2017
Brilliant class, brilliant teacher. Alistair makes it very accessible for literally anyone, however much you may lacking in the rhythm department. Breaking the ice with humour he ensures everyone is at ease very quickly which results in people dancing naturally. He is not prescriptive so gives you space to have fun with it! Definitely highly recommend! K
Do it. Now. I should have done a course like this years ago. W
Fantastic class, very enjoyable, lots of laughter and great results! R
Felt I could manage a basic salsa by the end of the day. Would highly recommend.” J
Alistair is a brilliant engaging teacher who approaches the day with good humour and high energy. J
Alistair is a fun teacher with deep knowledge about salsa (over 25 years of teaching) which he shares in a humorous, but very precisely thought through way. G
Awesome classes! These classes make it easier to learn the psychology of Salsa through fun, energetic and intensive sessions. R
Alastair Sadler has been teaching salsa professionally in London since 1995.
He has developed and refined the progressive teaching method called Salsa Rapido®.
Many of his projects have helped define salsa in the UK:
The Salsa Rapido One Day Intensive course (The world's first and most successful intensive course, still running weekly in London)
Editor of Email Salsa News from 1999 -2007.
He hosted the UK's first ever weekly Bachata course at Salsa Camden.
In 2001 he choreographed & performed a solo demo (with a mop and office chair) at several congresses and events throughout Europe.
His TV credits as performer and/or choreographer include Baby Father I & II, Casualty, Happiness, Auf Weidersehn Pet and the BBC Ident.
Every year since 2011 he has performed Stand Up at The Edinburgh Fringe festival, and taken five full run shows there since 2014.
In 2012 he created a new partner dance called Mambalsa which is currently used for corporate events.
There are many Projects still to come.....
10.30-4.30pm | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
The course runs 10.30am until 4.30pm
Doors open c.30mins before.
We have a regular breaks (lunch typically 1hr)
Edinburgh Salsa Intensive | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
The fast ‘n fun Salsa Rapido® teaching method returns to Edinburgh as London Salsa professional Alastair Sadler brings you:
Wednesday 17th January 2018 Edinburgh Salsa Intensive.
An evening of intensive three hour salsa workshops 7pm to 10pm.
Location: The Foxy Fiddler Bar & Kitchen, 192 Morrison St, Edinburgh EH3, use Haymarket station. Map Link
Book as a single or a couple, the booking system balances the numbers of men and woman.
Open for ages 18+
Prices:
£35 singles
£50 couples*
£30 University Students BOOK NOW! * a couple is defined as one leader and one follower, traditionally: one man and one woman. All leaders dance with all followers and vica versa.
Salsa Rapido® method uses humour and popular psychology to speed your learning, making it a fast, fun alternative approach to learning salsa. It’s aim is to get you up to ‘club competence’ and beyond as soon as possible, while helping you to avoid many of the bad habits and pitfalls.
Salsa Rapido method works for all regional styles of salsa, enabling you to dance with anyone from anywhere.
For Beginners:
Salsa Rapido is simply the fastest and most fun way into salsa, so let’s get dancing.
There’s no slog and no stress just easy core moves and clear explanation.
We’ll pinpoint the skills of leading, following, looking good and having fun on the dance floor.
I’ll introduce you to the seven rules that make salsa a lot less complicated.
You’ll gain a clear insight into where style and your confidence comes from, why things go wrong and a practical approach to going from clunky to mastery.
If I’ve missed something just call/text me on 07939012231
Reviews:
Check out my 5 star reviews on TripAdviser I LOVED IT. Alistair is a gifted teacher. He makes everyone feel great. Even the absolute beginners were bobbing along fine. I enjoyed the exercises which were playful and easy. And made me understand how the emphasis on different beats within the salsa rhythm can change. Is that why different men dance so differently? And I loved every word that Alistair explained about theory. A fountain of knowledge.
THANK YOU! Please come back soon!
B. Edinburgh (from my last course in Edinburgh Oct. 2017
Brilliant class, brilliant teacher. Alistair makes it very accessible for literally anyone, however much you may lacking in the rhythm department. Breaking the ice with humour he ensures everyone is at ease very quickly which results in people dancing naturally. He is not prescriptive so gives you space to have fun with it! Definitely highly recommend! K
Do it. Now. I should have done a course like this years ago. W
Fantastic class, very enjoyable, lots of laughter and great results! R
Felt I could manage a basic salsa by the end of the day. Would highly recommend.” J
Alistair is a brilliant engaging teacher who approaches the day with good humour and high energy. J
Alistair is a fun teacher with deep knowledge about salsa (over 25 years of teaching) which he shares in a humorous, but very precisely thought through way. G
Awesome classes! These classes make it easier to learn the psychology of Salsa through fun, energetic and intensive sessions. R
Alastair Sadler has been teaching salsa professionally in London since 1995.
He has developed and refined the progressive teaching method called Salsa Rapido®.
Many of his projects have helped define salsa in the UK:
The Salsa Rapido One Day Intensive course (The world's first and most successful intensive course, still running weekly in London)
Editor of Email Salsa News from 1999 -2007.
He hosted the UK's first ever weekly Bachata course at Salsa Camden.
In 2001 he choreographed & performed a solo demo (with a mop and office chair) at several congresses and events throughout Europe.
His TV credits as performer and/or choreographer include Baby Father I & II, Casualty, Happiness, Auf Weidersehn Pet and the BBC Ident.
Every year since 2011 he has performed Stand Up at The Edinburgh Fringe festival, and taken five full run shows there since 2014.
In 2012 he created a new partner dance called Mambalsa which is currently used for corporate events.
There are many Projects still to come.....
Cambridge Holiday Inn Location | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
The Holiday Inn is just to the North of Cambridge near the M11.
It is a three star hotel with pool and gym.
Address: Lakeview, Bridge Rd, Impington, Cambridge CB24 9PH Google map link
This is NOT a London location
If you are unsure please text me 07939012231 but I cannot reply on the day of the course :-)
Corona Virus Statement | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Corona Virus Statement update. (05/09/2021)
All courses are now booked on the basics that we will be swapping partners as before covid 19. This reflects salsa culture and improves the course in many ways.
Covid has not gone away so I ask that:
If you have any possible symptoms of Covid you postpone your course date. I will not charge transfer fees. Please let me know ASAP.
Anyone showing symptoms similar to covid 19 will not be admitted.
If you can test before coming please do. I will test myself before every course.
If your booking or gift voucher was affected by lockdown please note that I have extended gift vouchers and suspended booking indefinitely.
Restriction required by the government or venue may change at short notice. We will comply with all. This may lead to postponements or delays and I ask for your flexibility as I offer mine.
Course dates may have to be postponed at short notice.
Ultimately, the responsibility for our own safety and those around us rest with ourselves. I ask that we err on the side of reasonable caution.
Meanwhile stay safe :-)
Regards Alastair
Salsa Leading and following | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
In salsa dancing there are two roles: Leading and Following. Traditionally men lead and women follow, but things have changed and this century it is commonplace in salsa clubs, and salsa classes to see anyone dancing with anyone regardless of gender or sexuality.
Many people come into salsa dancing believing that it’s simply a bunch of people looking to ‘hook up’ with each other. ‘The hot Latin lover or dusky Cuban girl stereotypes still persist today. Any glance at the P.R. machine surrounding Strictly Come Dancing will associate dance with sexual transgression. The fact is that salsa was never a singles only scene and isn’t today. Let’s face it, these days, people are more likely to use dating apps than a dance floor to meet people. What is true is that people dance for fun and dancing with anyone can be fun. Good dancers place respect at the core of their dance relationships as that simply makes the dancing better for everyone.
From a salsa dance teaching perspective it’s incredibly useful for students to experience leading and following at a basic level. Doing so: Builds empathy; De-stresses; Builds communication and Challenges objectification.
Dancing the non-gender traditional role neither emasculates or defeminises, it simply increases your dance experience and therefore your dance confidence.
Can I buy a gift voucher | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
A full day intensive salsa course is an ideal gift and we have tried to make it as easy for you as possible.
You can buy a single or couples place for any Salsa Rapido 1-Day Intensive Course without the hassle of arranging a date.
Once purchased, just print off the voucher via the link on the email confirmation.
The recipient just calls us to book a date at their convenience.
Gift vouchers are sold at our regular prices with no surcharge.
They are valid for six months. Find out more about the 1-Day course
Can I really learn in a day | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Yes- Our aim is for you to have all the skills necessary to go out to salsa clubs that night and dance all night.
Secondly you should be able to join any class at above Beginners level and finally you will have the 'look and feel' of a salsa dancers.
What style do you teach | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Salsa Rapido is teaching method not a style of salsa. It’s a well developed foundation course that draws from and prepares you for any regional style of salsa. see Salsa Rapido: Regional Styles in Salsa (2019)
Through comparing different elements from various regional styles, you'll have a greater depth of understanding and be able to make informed choices about your style.
Salsa Rapido is there to foster your style and your expression. I hope you’ll be informed by, and not confined by, the style of others. Many people mistakenly believe that the regional styles are incompatible. This is totally untrue.
The goal is to be able to dance with anyone from anywhere, easily adapting to their style whilst expressing yourself with confidence, consideration and authenticity.
Salsa Rapido presents the required skills in a way that helps you to quickly achieve a high level of competence regarding style, communication, timing, mechanics etc.
You’ll also avoid "bad habits" that will limit you at a higher level.
Scottish Salsa Intensives | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Scottish Intensive Salsa Courseuu To book tonight's Glasgow Intensive text 07939012231 ASAP
Space available for Ladies and Couples
Edinburgh Salsa Intensive - Wednesday 17th January 2018 Glasgow Salsa Intensive - Thursday 18th January 2018
The fast ‘n fun Salsa Rapido® teaching method returns to Scotland as London Salsa professional Alastair Sadler brings you:
Two evenings of intensive three hour salsa workshops 7pm to 10pm.
Edinburgh Intensive Salsa course Location: The Foxy Fiddler Bar & Kitchen, 192 Morrison St, Edinburgh EH3, use Haymarket station. Map Link
Glasgow Intensive Salsa course Location: Sloans, The Argyll Arcade, 108 Argyle St, Glasgow G2 8BG, use Glasgow Central or Argyle St. Map Link
Book as a single or a couple, the booking system balances the numbers of men and woman.
Open for ages 18+
Prices £35 per person with discounts for couples*
BOOK NOW! * a couple is defined as one leader and one follower, traditionally: one man and one woman. All leaders dance with all followers and vica versa.
Salsa Rapido® method uses humour and popular psychology to speed your learning, making it a fast, fun alternative approach to learning salsa. It’s aim is to get you up to ‘club competence’ and beyond as soon as possible, while helping you to avoid many of the bad habits and pitfalls.
Salsa Rapido method works for all regional styles of salsa, enabling you to dance with anyone from anywhere.
For Beginners:
Salsa Rapido is simply the fastest and most fun way into salsa, so let’s get dancing.
There’s no slog and no stress just easy core moves and clear explanation.
We’ll pinpoint the skills of leading, following, looking good and having fun on the dance floor.
I’ll introduce you to the seven rules that make salsa a lot less complicated.
You’ll gain a clear insight into where style and your confidence comes from, why things go wrong and a practical approach to going from clunky to mastery.
If I’ve missed something just call/text me on 07939012231
Reviews:
Check out my 5 star reviews on TripAdviser I LOVED IT. Alistair is a gifted teacher. He makes everyone feel great. Even the absolute beginners were bobbing along fine. I enjoyed the exercises which were playful and easy. And made me understand how the emphasis on different beats within the salsa rhythm can change. Is that why different men dance so differently? And I loved every word that Alistair explained about theory. A fountain of knowledge.
THANK YOU! Please come back soon!
B. Edinburgh (from my last course in Edinburgh Oct. 2017
Brilliant class, brilliant teacher. Alistair makes it very accessible for literally anyone, however much you may lacking in the rhythm department. Breaking the ice with humour he ensures everyone is at ease very quickly which results in people dancing naturally. He is not prescriptive so gives you space to have fun with it! Definitely highly recommend! K
Do it. Now. I should have done a course like this years ago. W
Fantastic class, very enjoyable, lots of laughter and great results! R
Felt I could manage a basic salsa by the end of the day. Would highly recommend.” J
Alistair is a brilliant engaging teacher who approaches the day with good humour and high energy. J
Alistair is a fun teacher with deep knowledge about salsa (over 25 years of teaching) which he shares in a humorous, but very precisely thought through way. G
Awesome classes! These classes make it easier to learn the psychology of Salsa through fun, energetic and intensive sessions. R
Alastair Sadler has been teaching salsa professionally in London since 1995.
He has developed and refined the progressive teaching method called Salsa Rapido®.
Many of his projects have helped define salsa in the UK:
The Salsa Rapido One Day Intensive course (The world's first and most successful intensive course, still running weekly in London)
Editor of Email Salsa News from 1999 -2007.
He hosted the UK's first ever weekly Bachata course at Salsa Camden.
In 2001 he choreographed & performed a solo demo (with a mop and office chair) at several congresses and events throughout Europe.
His TV credits as performer and/or choreographer include Baby Father I & II, Casualty, Happiness, Auf Weidersehn Pet and the BBC Ident.
Every year since 2011 he has performed Stand Up at The Edinburgh Fringe festival, and taken five full run shows there since 2014.
In 2012 he created a new partner dance called Mambalsa which is currently used for corporate events.
There are many Projects still to come.....
Can I really learn in a day | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Can I learn Salsa in a day?
Yes- You will have all the skills necessary to go out dancing salsa, with sufficient repertoire and style to feel confident on the dance floor.
You will also have the concepts to succeed in any UK salsa class at above beginners level.
Finally you will have that 'look' of a Salseros (You at your most confident best)
I strongly recommend you set a date to go dancing to test what you’ve learnt ASAP. You will not feel as if you can really do it, until you’ve followed through and gone dancing. It will be scary, thrilling and amazing so be brave and do it!
Fitness
The 1-Day intensive is carefully structured so that anyone of average fitness can enjoy the day.
Minimum age is 18 and most will be between 22 and 55 (see gallery)
We ask that if you have any medical condition that may affect your performance, that you seek professional advice before booking.
You may be a little stiff the following day so please stretch before you go to bed. Motivation:
A 1-Day Intensive is especially appealing for those who:
Hate the idea of spending weeks at a beginners level.
Are catching up a friend who already dances salsa.
Feel they would have given up on a regular weekly class before getting to dancer level.
They are going on holiday to a salsa region.
They are getting married and wish to dance salsa for their first dance.
Why have balanced numbers | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Balanced numbers of men and women are essential for a full day course.
Ask anyone who has tried a one hour class with too many women. Ladies either have to chop and change from leading to following or sit out part of the time. In a five hour course this is unacceptable.
We do encourage ladies to learn to lead but suggest them learn to follow first.
The only down side of balanced numbers is that we often have to form waiting lists if too many men or women want to book.
Pricing and Discounts | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Pricing:
The regular price before discounts for the 1-Day Intensive for beginners is £65 per person. Discounts:
Booking online and telling us how you heard about us triggers the following prices:
Couples (one leader and one follower)- £95 saving £35.
Big Groups: (4 Couples +)
This course is not suitable for stag/ hen parties.
For large group enquiries please call me during office hours 07939 012231
Alastair Sadler Salsa Teacher | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Alastair Sadler has been teaching salsa since 1995 and has clocked up over 15,000 classes.
From the start he has developed and refined the progressive teaching method called Salsa Rapido.
Many of his projects have helped define salsa in the UK:
Salsa instructors forum (a workshop where instructors could exchange good teaching practice an ideas).
The One Day Intensive course (The world's first and most successful intensive course, still running weekly)
Salsa university (an all-dayer concept but weekly with five advanced classes in different styles)
In addition to teaching he runs The Streetbeat Salsa Co. and edited the Email Salsa News from 1999 -2007.
Salsa Camden - London's highly successful Rapido & Rueda venue where we ran the UK's first ever weekly Bachata course and in 2018 ran the first Blend format event.
In 2001 he choreographed & performed a solo demo (dancing salsa with a mop and office chair) at congresses and events throughout Europe.
His TV credits as performer and/or choreographer include Baby Father I & II, Casualty, Happiness, Auf Weidersehn Pet and the BBC Ident ( He was the big guy at the front in the white shirt!)
In 2014 he created Mambalsa, the first new partner dance of the 21st century.
Since 2011 he has realised his love of comedy and performed Stand Up at The Edinburgh Fringe festival taking five shows in 2015/16/17.
I still have many new projects to run such as Mambalsa, Salsa Liquida and teacher training courses and a book! So watch this space for another 20+ years :)
It's all been possible through the support of my partner Felicity aka DJ Felicidad.
What level am I | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Am I a beginner or Improver
In ascending order the general levels are: Beginner, Improver, Intermediate, Advanced.
Beginners:
If you have never had a salsa class before, or you have tried a couple of salsa classes you are a beginner. No expertise in another dance qualifies you for salsa although you can expect to find many aspects of the course easier.
An excellent natural definition of a salsa beginner is that you cannot keep the footwork sequence going consistently unless most of your attention is focussed upon it. Improvers:
An improver has generally completed 6-10 classes (weekly 1 hour) and can consistently keep the footwork sequence going while thinking of other things. You will have experienced spins, turns and various combinations but probably have not mastered them or cannot remember them.
Usually improvers are not confident of dancing in a freestyle situation and lack practice.
The Improver level Course is called the i.2.i. "improvers to intermediate" and is a direct follow on to the 1-Day Intensive Course for Beginners Click here to visit the i.2.i. FAQ Minimum levels for i.2.i.courses:
All participants must be able to :
Keep the footwork going whilst concentrating on something else.
Manipulate their FWS to make a range of basic steps.
Have experienced a range of moves.
Lead or follow a 'Cross Body Lead' or 'Dile Que No'
I strongly recommend that a minimum of four hours tuition has been completed prior to the i.2.i. Courses.
Intermediate:
Once you can dance freestyle in a club you naturally become an Intermediate. You’re getting so much practice that a gap opens up between those who freestyle and those who don’t. You’ll still make mistakes, and get frustrated about various things but it’s a nice place to be so well done and enjoy :-) Advanced:
The quick answer is ... if you’re reading this you’re not! But if you are advanced you’ll know it. You won’t need medals or camera crews, but you’ll be able to look good any time any place anywhere, and most importantly you’ll be able to make anyone you dance with feel great.
Tips:
If you have reached that freestyle salsa level but have had a break from salsa of months / years you are just a rusty intermediate and you should not go back to beginners level. If you are not sure call us or try one of our regular weekly classes and have a chat about your level.
Don’t be overeager to become advanced. (from a man who created Salsa Rapido!) What I mean is enjoy the journey. There’s fun to be had at every level. Those beginners you leave behind in your race to improve may have become your friend for life.
Ride above the cliquedom and politics and give a little back. An advanced dancer who can’t dance with a beginner isn’t advanced.
And finally... If you’re really not sure, call me. I’ve been having this conversation for a loooong time and can usually clarify things for you.
Am I an Improver | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
An improver has generally completed 6-10 classes (weekly 1 hour) and can consistently keep the footwork sequence going. You will have experienced spins, turns and various combinations but probably have not mastered them or cannot remember them.
Once you can dance free-style in a club you naturally become an Intermediate.
Please note that if you have reached that free-style level but have had a break from salsa of months / years you are just a rusty intermediate and you should not go back to beginners level.
If you are not sure call us or try one of our regular weekly classes and have a chat about your level.
what to wear & bring | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
What to bring:
A smile, it's a fun day
Clothing: Comfortable casual clothes, a spare top or t-shirt.
Footwear: Comfortable, smooth soled shoes (I don't recommend heals, flip flops, sticky trainers or anything new!)
What to wear:
Although people usually dress to impress in the salsa clubs, at our classes, comfortable clothing are your priority.
You can get a little hot so a spare top is not a bad idea. I insist on the highest standards of personal hygiene (yes I will say something)
Footwear is important. We recommend smooth soled shoes (Not new trainers) Ladies should wear shoes of the same height as they are used to. Please bear in mind that you may get trodden on (sandals = "Ouch"!!) and you may tread on someone else (stilettos = "*&%$ ?"!!!)
Above all wear shoes that are comfortable, not brand new ones.
Terms and Conditions | Beginners One Day Intensive Salsa Class
Mambalsa Curious?
Mambalsa® Dance Workshop
In Brief:
Are you still dance curious? I hope so because I'd like to invite you to a very special full day event on:
I'm looking for up to 30 people for a full day Mambalsa® workshop aimed at those who are interested in the intersection of Dance, Well-Being and Self-Development. Using Mambalsa® as a platform, there'll be lots of dancing, moves, grooves, laughs and discussion, all wrapped around a heap of psychology.
I'm looking for up to 30 people for a full day workshop aimed at those who are interested in the intersection of Dance, Well-Being and Self-Development.
There'll be lots of dancing, moves, grooves, laughs and discussion, all wrapped around a heap of psychology.
Who's coming:
Anyone who wishes to explore social dance through this exciting lens and wish to connect with other like minded people.
Professional Dance, Fitness and Well-being practitioners who wish to enhance their practice.
Those who are interested in supporting the Mambalsa project and interested in the opportunities it will offer.
Aims: No doubt we're all aware that dance is fun and great for physiological health, but dance can also be viewed as a well-being / self-development practice. Whether you wish to nudge your dancing towards well-being / self-development or use the day to boost your dance or therapeutic practice, this unique day is just for you.
Content: This event will explore four aspects of social partner dance psychology:
Fun and the psychological systems of pleasure.
Well-Being: The lifelong benefits of dance. (our primary focus is mental not physiological)
Self-Development: Building awareness, agency and control of emotional process, and developing empathetic communication.
Cultural exploration: Through the semantic experience of dance through world music.
Why is the Psychology Important?
Just by dancing we can achieve much of the well-being benefits of dance, but understanding of the psychology makes change more achievable.
A great example of this is fun. Understanding the psychological systems of fun allows us to have more fun, more intensely and more often! Uncomfortable aspects of learning become more tolerable and motivation is boosted. Fun is just one of several elements of long term well-being. We'll explore how we can bring more fun into dance, busting stress, building mental resilience and developing self-confidence.
The day is led by myself, Alastair Sadler MBACP(Accred). For the past thirty years I've taught and innovated within the UK salsa scene as my full time profession. More recently I've achieved accreditation as a psychotherapist working in private practice.
I’ve spent much of the past few years researching the psychology of social dance and I’m the first to admit we’re only beginning to scratch the surface. What I’ve learnt has profoundly changed the way I teach and I would like to share that research and experience with you.
Together we can connect as a group of like minded people, start a conversation and nudge dance towards being a well-being practice that maintains all the fun, social benefits; plus the physiological benefits (fitness and physical health) and the well-being / self-Development benefits (Confidence, Mental Resilience and Empathetic Communication Skills).
About Mambalsa®: How many people start to dance only to drop out after a short while? To explore this we need to re-experience dance as a beginner. To put us all on a level playing field I’ll be introducing you to Mambalsa. Mambalsa is the newest partner dance of the 21st century designed with a host of U.S.P.s. Mambalsa® is danced as a partner dance (like salsa, tango, jive etc.) but can also be danced in a grid (line dancing), a circle (La Rueda) or as a solo dance. Everyone learns to lead and follow and it’s danced to almost any music. At its heart is an ethos of Fun, Empathetic Communication, Emotional Intelligence and Respect. It’s easy to learn, but full of possibilities to explore!
Outcomes:
A useful insight into the psychology of social dance plus
The ‘why’ of social partner dance, it’s social uses and structure.
The ‘How’ of Mambalsa® (an additional string to your bow)
A fun day socialising with others of the Dance Curious tribe.
Opportunities: To start a group conversation about Dance, Well-being and Self Development. To join the Mambalsa® Project and use Mambalsa® to enhance your dance objectives. To network others of a similar mindset.
Itinerary: 10:30 - 11:00 Check-in Meet and Greet 11:00 - 1:30 Mambalsa® outline and basics 1:30 - 2:30 lunch (Offer: All main courses half price!)
2:30 - 4:45 Mambalsa® Dynamic Potential
4.45 - onward Socialise (bar open with happy hour)
£30 I believe in keeping the price down so it's cheeper than all of my regular Salsa Rapido courses (at the moment!) ... and no, there won't be a sales pitch!
Summer 2025 Offer for the Salsa Rapido 1-Day Intensive for Beginners
Enjoy this great offer!
‘Couples’ bookings £79 saving £51!
‘Singles’ bookings £49 saving £16!
This includes gift voucher purchases too (no offer-code required)
Use the offer-code "2025" when you book.
Only available for course dates before end June 2025.
BOOK NOW for the Improvers level course-
i.2.i. Knock the Rust Off
Sunday 15th June 2025 Salsa Soho, London
This is the Improvers i2i course aimed at people who feel their salsa is a little rusty or as a direct follow on from the Salsa Rapido 1-Day Intensive Courses.
I've called it i2i Knock the Rust Off and that's what it does.
There's lots of moves and technique presented with the 'Why' as well as the 'How to' of salsa dancing.
It's fun, inspiring, and you'll be boosted towards intermediate and beyond.
I've posted more info at: i2i Knock the Rust Off
It will build on the generic basics of salsa including:
Core moves
Footwork
Musical interpretation &
Flow and expression
And much more...
Course starts 10:45am at Salsa Soho until 4:45pm (doors open 10.30am)
Cost: £39 per person with the offer code 'rusty' :)
Use the above link to book.
Alternative dates: View dates
More dates throughout the year!
Are you still dance curious? I hope so because I'd like to invite you to a very special full day event on:
Sunday 20th July 2025 Held at Salsa Soho, London. 10:30 - 4:45pm Book Now!
I'm looking for up to 30 people for a full day Mambalsa® workshop aimed at those who are interested in the intersection of Dance, Well-Being and Self-Development. Using Mambalsa® as a platform, there'll be lots of dancing, moves, grooves, laughs and discussion, all wrapped around a heap of psychology.
I'm looking for up to 30 people for a full day workshop aimed at those who are interested in the intersection of Dance, Well-Being and Self-Development.
There'll be lots of dancing, moves, grooves, laughs and discussion, all wrapped around a heap of psychology.
Who's coming:
Anyone who wishes to explore social dance through this exciting lens and wish to connect with other like minded people.
Professional Dance, Fitness and Well-being practitioners who wish to enhance their practice.
Those who are interested in supporting the Mambalsa project and interested in the opportunities it will offer.
Aims: No doubt we're all aware that dance is fun and great for physiological health, but dance can also be viewed as a well-being / self-development practice. Whether you wish to nudge your dancing towards well-being / self-development or use the day to boost your dance or therapeutic practice, this unique day is just for you.
Content: This event will explore four aspects of social partner dance psychology:
Fun and the psychological systems of pleasure.
Well-Being: The lifelong benefits of dance. (our primary focus is mental not physiological)
Self-Development: Building awareness, agency and control of emotional process, and developing empathetic communication.
Cultural exploration: Through the semantic experience of dance through world music.
Why is the Psychology Important?
Just by dancing we can achieve much of the well-being benefits of dance, but understanding of the psychology makes change more achievable.
A great example of this is fun. Understanding the psychological systems of fun allows us to have more fun, more intensely and more often! Uncomfortable aspects of learning become more tolerable and motivation is boosted. Fun is just one of several elements of long term well-being. We'll explore how we can bring more fun into dance, busting stress, building mental resilience and developing self-confidence.
The day is led by myself, Alastair Sadler MBACP(Accred). For the past thirty years I've taught and innovated within the UK salsa scene as my full time profession. More recently I've achieved accreditation as a psychotherapist working in private practice.
I’ve spent much of the past few years researching the psychology of social dance and I’m the first to admit we’re only beginning to scratch the surface. What I’ve learnt has profoundly changed the way I teach and I would like to share that research and experience with you.
Together we can connect as a group of like minded people, start a conversation and nudge dance towards being a well-being practice that maintains all the fun, social benefits; plus the physiological benefits (fitness and physical health) and the well-being / self-Development benefits (Confidence, Mental Resilience and Empathetic Communication Skills).
About Mambalsa®: How many people start to dance only to drop out after a short while? To explore this we need to re-experience dance as a beginner. To put us all on a level playing field I’ll be introducing you to Mambalsa. Mambalsa is the newest partner dance of the 21st century designed with a host of U.S.P.s. Mambalsa® is danced as a partner dance (like salsa, tango, jive etc.) but can also be danced in a grid (line dancing), a circle (La Rueda) or as a solo dance. Everyone learns to lead and follow and it’s danced to almost any music. At its heart is an ethos of Fun, Empathetic Communication, Emotional Intelligence and Respect. It’s easy to learn, but full of possibilities to explore!
Outcomes:
A useful insight into the psychology of social dance plus
The ‘why’ of social partner dance, it’s social uses and structure.
The ‘How’ of Mambalsa® (an additional string to your bow)
A fun day socialising with others of the Dance Curious tribe.
Opportunities: To start a group conversation about Dance, Well-being and Self Development. To join the Mambalsa® Project and use Mambalsa® to enhance your dance objectives. To network others of a similar mindset.
Itinerary: 10:30 - 11:00 Check-in Meet and Greet 11:00 - 1:30 Mambalsa® outline and basics 1:30 - 2:30 lunch (Offer: All main courses half price!)
2:30 - 4:45 Mambalsa® Dynamic Potential
4.45 - onward Socialise (bar open with happy hour)
£30 I believe in keeping the price down so it's cheeper than all of my regular Salsa Rapido courses (at the moment!) ... and no, there won't be a sales pitch!
Tickets are now on sale for the Summer Thames Salsa Cruise on Sunday 17th August
It seems only 5 mins ago since our sell out Spring Thames Salsa Cruise, but summer is here and tickets are now available for the summer Thames Salsa Cruise on Sunday Aug 17th!
This year is the 27th anniversary of the Thames Salsa Cruise! and we’re celebrating 30 years of Streetbeat so it's gonna be a goodie and hot on the dance floor, don't miss out!
Book online at streetbeat.co.uk/tsc
To give you an idea here's a video clip of the Spring Cruise
For a lazy August evening, the cruise is simply perfect :-) Dance, chat, chill, whatever you wish...
It's on Sunday 17th August and tickets are already available from this website. Get them early because we will probably sell out.
Groups (5+) cost £18 and the regular advanced price is £20. (£25 cash on the day) Groups text me to set up a discount code ASAP Alastair 07939 012231
Come and salsa the River as we cruise from the Festival Pier Southbank to the Barrier and back. Watch the sunset as you sip a drink on the back deck, then see the River sparkle as the city lights up; all the while listening to some great salsa music to entice you back on the dance floor.
Four hours of dancing and fun; what a great way to spend an evening!
Departs Festival Pier by the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank at 6.45pm, returning at 10.50pm
A recent article showed that monkeys drum rhythmically on tree roots using sticks.
I've taken this as a starting point to explore how we view monkeys, apes and dance within our culture and of course the implications of rhythmic apes.
Possessing rhythm is an essential building block of music and dance. The implication is profound: rhythm and, by extension, dance may have deep evolutionary roots shared by humans and other primates.
Culturally we tend to see dance and primates as a child like expression but there are darker themes hidden within.
I hopefully offer this as serious content, but with a sprinkling of humour. Enjoy :)
This April 2025, I clock up 30 years as a salsa teacher. It’s something I’m proud of and as part of that celebration, I wish to offer some personal reflections on my life in salsa starting with the birth of The Streetbeat Salsa Co. ........ Continued
In my latest blog post "Me and Bar Salsa!" I write about why this long standing venue is very special to me on the eve of my thirtieth wedding anniversary.
There's also a potted history of London's salsa scene. Me and Bar Salsa!
It was 8am and Fliss and I were in bed watching the winter solstice sunrise over Stonehenge live streamed onto my phone and I thought wow! For some reason unknown to me, I found myself making a connection to the traditional and probably ancient wedding saying of: Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue.....
An end of year blog that includes many themes from 2024
............ Continued
In this blog I highlight The Chinese New Year Dragon Dance, it's origin and connect it to my life lived in London teaching Salsa.
2/2/2025 Spring is coming and about bloody time!
I'm sitting in Cafe Nero watching crowds of people walk by towards Leicester Square to see the Dragon Dance of Chinese new year.
I first saw this by change when I was 18 and travelled up to London to visit my then .......
The story goes that a lady from the village of Lotus, named for a pond full of lotus flowers, that presumably was next to a village called Duckweed! ........... Link to blog post
In this blog I reflect on the late Jack Vettriano's most famous painting:
The Singing Butler 1992
and his position within the art world as a mirror to Salsa's position within the dance world.
7/3/2025
A few days ago on March 1st 2025 the painter Jack Vettriano died aged 73. I’m sure to a younger generation, his name won’t mean much, but to those who’s ‘back in the day’ was the nineteen nineties, Jack’s paintings were ubiquitous. It seemed that every coffee shop had a print of his hanging somewhere......... Link to blog post
I’ve just finished another six week Mambalsa course at the Nightingale Cancer Support Centre in Enfield and what a lovely group it was.
I was aiming for a gentle introduction to Mambalsa without too much emphasis on the well-being aspects of Psych. Ed. but they came up anyway.
Often the classes would end in a group discussion about recovering from cancer and I have to admit it was great to share those stories and feel a paid up member of that club.
Every group teaches me something about dance and life. This group showed me that like a hummingbird, beauty has no relationship to size. We took the lid off our creativity and relaxed and moved freely within the ethos of Mambalsa dance. I’m being deliberately cryptic but confidentiality prevents me from sharing any detail.
I will take the chance to share the last two tracks we danced as a way to illustrate that Mambalsa is danced to any 4:4 time music:
- Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen - complete with head banging and Zimbabwean Wellington Boot dance! (I’ll just leave that to your imagination)
- Would You Be Loved by Bob Marley - A perfect song to end on.
I’m already missing all my Mambalsa Dancers from the Nightingale and can’t wait for the next group.
Alastair
Yesterday I received an email from TripAdvisor informing me that I had been awarded a Certificate of Excellence.
I had no idea that there was such a thing but now I've got one I'm a big fan.
It's the chance to thanks to everyone who's taken the time and trouble to say some kind words about my Salsa Rapido 1-Day Intensive course.
Click the image to visit TridAdvisor
Reflection: (You may prefer to read this on the Salsa Rapido Blog)
When I embedded TripAdvisor into my site I was hoping for praise but open to the possibility of harsh and unfair criticism, and in fairness I've received a one star review from someone who wasn't on the course and a two star review from someone who enjoyed the class but didn't enjoy the fajitas at lunch! May I just add that fajitas are not compulsory and anyone can eat wherever they wish. Lunch isn't even part of the deal so bring a packet of crisps in if you wish but don't blame my course if they didn't have your favourite flavour! (I'm so over it now)
Anyway, I overcame my fears and gave it a go, realising that feedback is good and TripAdivsor offers a third party review that's useful for the pubic when booking.
Many months later and I've received mainly five star reviews.
This tells me that:
My presentation is engaging and entertaining.
People are way nicer than I deserve.
Salsa Rapido is a mature enough method to stand comparison to traditional classes.
I'm really good at asking for five star reviews.
On the last point my hobby of stand up comedy led to five shows at the Edinburgh Fringe where at the end of a show we would have a 'bucket speech' to encourage the audience to give a tip (our only source of income)
Cliched line like "Take some change, fold it and put it in the bucket" were common.
One time I got a waif-like act to kneel down holding the bucket while looking as mournful as a Dickensian child.
Another time a showed the audience picture of my cats on my phone and asked "which one should I 'economise' first?" Well it works for charities!
The result was seldom any different. It was the show that counted.
I've decided to share my recent experience of cancer in a personal blog.
This may be upsetting for many people and I advise caution as to whether you read on.
First I need to address the question: why blog about cancer on a salsa dance website?
Like so many brands on the salsa scene, behind the Streetbeat/ Rapido/ Mambalsa brand is an individual person, who made the jump from dancer to dance teacher. My treatment will affect every aspect of my life including the Salsa Rapido courses and Mambalsa Project. I may physically change as a result of chemotherapy and when someone asks a question about these changes I'd like to answer in a brief and polite way with an invitation to read my blog to get my personal insight if they wish. In other words cancer affects me but it doesn't define me!
Follow this blog: Use this link to add you email to my blog following list:
The blog is a continuation of my 2022 Brighton Marathon blog hosted on Blogger.
This is where I chart the progress of the Salsa Rapido method. The links take you to mambalsa.blogspot.co.uk in a new window. Please feel free to comment :-)
The Mambalsa Project. A new partner dance for a new century. From what's happening with Mambalsa today through to my Edinburgh Fringe show about Mambalsa way back in 2015
This Blog covers two of my major life events: My running the 2022 Brighton Marathon; and my 2023 six months of Chemotherapy. The links take you to alastairmarathon.blogspot.com in a new window. Please feel free to comment :-)
The Salsa Rapido Concepts and Tips playlist is designed as the notes and rule book of salsa It's an ongoing project so please consider it to be in beta testing.
For a hobbie I dabble in stand up comedy. From time to time a gig goes well, so here's a few of my favorites of me. Note: May contain adult themes and nuts
The Streetbeat Salsa Co. owned and managed by me Alastair Sadler. I'm also responsible for the web design and all errors - sorry. Any reports of errors are most welcome :-)