READ THE INTRODUCTIONS OF THE GUEST ARTISTS BELOW

AMAZING INTERNATIONAL GUEST ARTISTS OF BAILA BAILA SALSA FESTIVAL 2025!

INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS

Liza & Chicho

Danger & Marielkis

Barbara Jimenez

Wilmer & Maria.

Mercedes Sayut

DJ Javier de la Rosa

DJ Pinjachata

DJ Babak

master the moves with us! expert BAILA BAILA instructors await at salsa festival 2025!

Carlos Correa

Have you ever dreamed of gliding effortlessly across the dance floor, the rhythm pulsing through your veins? Look no further than Cuban Carlos, the salsa maestro captivating Finland with his infectious energy and masterful instruction.

Since arriving in Finland, Carlos's passion for dance quickly ignited the local scene. Within just three short years, his talent and sunny disposition caught the eye of San Miguel, founder of the renowned Baila Baila dance school. Recognizing a kindred spirit, San Miguel offered Carlos a coveted spot in his dance group, propelling Carlos onto the Finnish salsa stage.

But Carlos isn't just a phenomenal dancer; he's a gifted instructor. His classes are legendary for their vibrant atmosphere. Imagine stepping into a room pulsating with Latin rhythms, where Carlos's warm personality and crystal-clear teaching methods make even the most complex salsa moves feel achievable.

Whether you're a complete beginner yearning to learn the basic steps of couples salsa or a seasoned dancer looking to refine your rueda skills, Carlos's classes cater to all levels.

Prepare to be challenged, to laugh, and to experience the pure joy of movement under Carlos's expert guidance. His infectious enthusiasm will have you hooked from the very first lesson. Don't miss this chance to unlock your inner salsa star – come learn with Cuban Carlos and discover the magic of dance!

Jose Mesa

José's passion for dance began with a deep dive into Cuban roots. He honed his skills at the prestigious Escuela Conjunto Folklorico Nacional de Cuba, where he immersed himself in the rich tapestry of folklore and popular dances. Graduating in 2008, José wasn't done expanding his repertoire. The following year, he enrolled at Escuela Narciso Medina, pushing his boundaries further with contemporary dance.

This well-rounded training proved invaluable when José joined Conjunto Folklorico Universitario de Cuba. Here, he wasn't just a dancer; he was a storyteller. He brought Cuban traditions to life on stage, captivating audiences at various events throughout the island.

But José's talents weren't meant to be confined to a single group. He went on to perform with the renowned Compañía de Danzas Tradicionales de Cuba JJ, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished dancer. This experience even led him to Africa, where he participated in the prestigious Festival Cultural de Danza Folklorica, sharing his cultural heritage with an international audience.

However, José's love for dance extends beyond the stage. Back in Cuba, he discovered a new passion: teaching. With infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy, he shared his knowledge with foreign visitors, introducing them to the pulsating rhythms of salsa, cha-cha-chá, mambo, rumba, and even reggaeton. His classes weren't just about steps; they were about transmitting the joy of dance, the very essence that had first captivated him.

Mailevis Ortega

Mailevis' story is one woven from the rich cultural tapestry of Artemis, Cuba. From a young age, she was drawn to the graceful world of ballet, her early steps setting the stage for a lifelong love affair with dance. As she matured, her passion expanded to encompass the vibrant energy of traditional Cuban dances. This exploration wasn't just about learning steps; it was a journey of discovery, a way to connect with her heritage and express herself through movement.

Mailevis' dedication to her craft didn't stop at the studio. After her studies, she took a bold step, joining the renowned Cabaret Continental de Varadero as a cabaret dancer. Here, she honed her performance skills, captivating audiences with her energetic and show-stopping routines. Over the years, she blossomed into a captivating performer, her talent and charisma leaving a lasting impression.

But Mailevis' desire to share her passion for dance extended beyond the stage lights. She discovered a new calling in teaching. Her lessons are a testament to her meticulous nature. She meticulously plans each session, ensuring her students receive a well-rounded dance education.

But Mailevis isn't just about technique; she brings an infectious enthusiasm to every class. Her dedication shines through as she pours her heart and energy into guiding her students.

The joy of dance isn't just taught in her classes; it's embodied by her. Mailevis' presence is a guaranteed burst of sunshine, radiating warmth and encouragement to everyone around her. Her students leave not only with improved dance skills, but also with a newfound appreciation for the sheer joy of movement.

San Miguel

Cuban San Miguel is a pioneer in the Finnish salsa scene. In 1993, he took a bold step, founding Finland's very first salsa dance school, Dance School Baila Baila. This wasn't just about opening a studio; it was about planting the seeds of a vibrant dance community. San Miguel's journey with salsa began even earlier, in 1992, when he moved to Finland and brought the infectious energy of this Latin dance with him. He wasn't just a passionate dancer; he possessed a gift for sharing his knowledge and love for salsa with others.

His dedication quickly paid off. San Miguel's classes attracted a growing number of students eager to learn the sizzling footwork and captivating rhythms of salsa. His influence extended far beyond the walls of Baila Baila. San Miguel became a regular fixture at salsa events across Finland, both as a captivating performer and a highly sought-after instructor. His talent didn't go unnoticed. In 2001 and 2004, he took home the prestigious Nordic Salsa Championship title, a testament to his exceptional skills. Further solidifying his dominance, he also claimed victory in the 2004 Finnish Salsa Championship.

Years of experience have honed San Miguel's teaching style. He is a master at creating a fun and challenging learning environment. His students consistently praise his ability to break down complex movements into easily understandable steps. This, coupled with his infectious enthusiasm, makes learning salsa an enjoyable and rewarding experience. But San Miguel's impact goes beyond mere instruction. As the founder of Baila Baila, he has become a central figure in the Finnish salsa world. His vast knowledge of the local scene makes him a valuable resource for students and fellow dancers alike. He is known for his unwavering support and willingness to help anyone with a passion for salsa. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned dancer looking to refine your skills, San Miguel offers a welcoming environment where you can learn, grow, and become part of Finland's vibrant salsa community. He also offers a wider range of dance styles beyond salsa, specializing in bachata and kizomba, ensuring there's something for everyone at Baila Baila. One thing is certain: Cuban San Miguel's legacy is forever intertwined with the history of salsa in Finland.

Yasser Sarria

Yasser's passion for dance began early in his life, blossoming in his vibrant homeland of Cuba. From a young age, his feet moved to the rhythm of his Cuban roots. He wasn't just drawn to dance; he craved a deep understanding.

Yasser immersed himself in the rich tapestry of Cuban popular and folk dances, taking numerous courses to hone his skills. This dedication wasn't solitary. He became a fixture in various Cuban dance groups, sharing his love for movement with his community.

Fueled by over 15 years of experience, Yasser didn't just keep his talents within Cuba's borders. He brought his infectious energy and captivating performances to Finland and across Europe. At Baila Baila, students are greeted by one of the most energetic and cheerful faces in the studio: Yasser.

His lessons are legendary for their infectious energy – he doesn't just teach steps, he ignites a passion for dance in his students. This vibrancy is reflected in his unique dance style, a fusion of the powerful Afro-Cuban tradition and the electrifying pulse of popular dance.

Yasser isn't just a dancer, he's a bridge, connecting cultures through the universal language of movement.

Yuniel Dieguez

Yuniel isn't just a dance instructor, he's a living embodiment of Cuban rhythm. With over 19 years of experience, he's the heart and soul of Dance School Cuba, a place where he pours his passion into every student. His journey began in his native Cuba, where the infectious energy of salsa filled the air. Casa de la Cultura became his training ground, honing his skills under the watchful eyes of renowned instructors. But Yuniel wasn't content with just learning steps. He craved the vibrant energy of performance, taking the stage as a dancer and electrifying Havana's clubs as a DJ and host.

This well-rounded experience wasn't a coincidence. Yuniel had the privilege of learning from salsa dance greats like Juan Gomez, absorbing not just technique but the very essence of this captivating art form.

His talent didn't go unnoticed. Yuniel's trophy cabinet boasts numerous salsa competition wins, a testament to his dedication and dazzling footwork. His reputation as a skilled instructor spread beyond Cuba's borders, leading him to collaborate with international dance companies. Most recently, he brought his expertise to the world-famous Proyecto Rueda De Casino, both dancing and sharing his knowledge with eager students.

Yuniel's approach to teaching is as captivating as his dance style. He's known for his infectious energy, clear explanations that make even the most complex moves seem effortless, and an ability to instill confidence in his students. His lessons are more than just steps; they're a journey into the heart of Cuban culture, where music and movement become one. Yuniel's students walk away not just with new skills, but with a newfound appreciation for the joy and freedom of dance.