ST. GEORGE-When a local woman with a passion for Latin dancing noticed that there were no Latin dancing opportunities in St. George, she chose to start a new recurring event for the entire community.
Mercy Savaiinaea, a first-generation Latina who moved to St. George six years ago, told St. George News that she had danced all her life and learned Latin dancing from her mother and cousins. , who were competitive salsa dancers.
After actively researching events and venues where she could exercise her passion for Latin dancing, she realized there were none available in Washington County.
“I decided to start on my own,” Savaoomaea said. “It was quite a struggle to find a place in town where I could do these events at a good price. We had a lot of ‘no’s and had to convince the places that all we wanted was good stuff. entertainment We were not looking for a club type environment.
Savaiinaea said they have already hosted five events in other locations and struggled to find an accommodating venue. She highlighted her gratitude to Ed Tracy of the Heritage Arts and Events Center for hosting the Latin Dance Nights.
St. George’s Latin Dance Nights feature a different Latin dance style each month. Each event consists of two parts: the first hour, optional, is an instructor-led lesson, for those who wish to learn. These teaching classes feature both a male and female instructor. The second part of the event, which is the main event, is a Latin dance night. This section of the event runs from 9 p.m. to midnight.
Savaiinaea said each event will feature a DJ who is well versed in Latin music, with DJ Tony Montes mostly for the crowd. She said some events also feature live bands and added that a taco truck will be outside the venue, with drinks available for purchase inside.
Savaiinaea emphasized that these events provide a safe and clean environment for Latin dancing. There is no alcohol allowed on site. She said the age range of attendees was between 14 and 85 and all ages were welcome.
“It’s a great date night,” Savaiinaea said. “It’s a great place to go and meet new people. It’s a great girls’ night out. You can really make it whatever you want it to be.
Savaiinaea said St. George’s Latin Dance Parties have really taken off since their first event which was attended by around 70 people. She said events now average about 200 attendees. She was able to share the events with the public via social media platforms and even by posting flyers at local Latin restaurants. She has also worked with the local radio station, Juan 106 FM to promote events.
Savaiinaea told St. George News the $15 entry fee covered the cost of the venue and DJ. She encourages anyone with dance experience who would like to teach a class to contact St. George Latin Dance Nights. instagram Where Facebook page and follow these pages to see all upcoming events. She adds that anyone who volunteers as an instructor will receive free entry to the event, as well as free entry for friends who also wish to attend.
Event details
- What: St. George’s Latin Dance Nights
- When: first and third Friday of each month
- Where: Center for Arts and Heritage Events, 568 W Telegraph St #4, Washington
- Admission: Single entry tickets are $15. Current membership special: $15 for one month, membership includes the ability to bring a friend to each event for free.
- Further information: Website
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