Every year, Wisconsin celebrates the diversity of its citizens with a host of festivals and events. They have become enormously popular with locals — and they draw visitors from all around the country. Milwaukee, the cultural center of the state, features ethnic events such as Polish Fest, Festa Italiana, German Fest, Indian Summer, Irish Fest and Mexican Fiesta, each showcasing a different culture, its foods, its entertainment and its music. And one thing all these festivals and cultures share: they all love to dance.
The dance culture in Milwaukee is not only thriving — it's growing. Companies like Wild Space Dance Co., the Ko-Thi Dance Company, the Milwaukee Ballet and Danceworks Inc. put on remarkable shows that everyone can enjoy, and a large number of dance studios across the city stand ready to help you find your rhythm.
In an effort to celebrate and honor the culturally diverse dance styles and traditions found around the world, the annual Wisconsin Salsa Open and Dance Festival is not only a dance competition — it is a dance festival. Visitors are welcome to take part in over twenty dance workshops taught by some of the best instructors in the world, and there are thirty shows featuring some of the world's finest dancers, including six dance world champions. The festival's organizers hope to stress the importance of diversity while strengthening the understanding of different cultures through dance.
The state's biggest Latin Dance Festival is sure to bring the area's best dancers to the floor — and you can choose to watch the competitions or take part in them yourself. The main purpose of the Wisconsin Salsa and Bachata Open is to find six couples to represent the state at the Chicago International Salsa Congress.
Here are some of the performers you will find at the Wisconsin Salsa Open and Dance Festival:
Uriel Garcia & Vera Rowe
One of the hottest dance couples in the world, winners of nine World Salsa, Hustle and Bachata Championships.
Carine Morais & Rafael Barros
The couple who put Brazil among the most important dance congresses. The current Octa-Salsa World Champions have taken titles around the world and are among the most exciting to watch.
DJ Freddy Fresh
DJ, musician and electronic music producer who has recorded for over a hundred labels. With his vast experience and skill, the party is sure to be lively.