SANDY from "Tropical Gem" - Italy, Milano

BZ> Sandy what do you think of the Congress so far?
First of all, I was really excited to come to Sydney since this is my first time
in Australia, and we are only her for a few days, but so far the Congress has
been great, the people are very humble and very friendly and also very willing to |
learn and there are some great dancers: men and woman.

BZ> Tell me a little bit about yourself and "Tropical Gem"
I was born in Chicago but raised in LA and have Mexican background as well. There
are 5 of us in the group, and it all started back in the year 2000. Rafael Gonzalez
and Fernando Soza are the main guys ie.directors. Allyra and I were from another
company in LA and saw them perform at the Puerto Rico Congress 2000. I had
a Tour with my other company in Italy and I got asked to be part of the team.

BZ> What do you think of the level of Dancing in Sydney and the
         difference between Dancing On One and On Two?
I think dancing On One is more popular however I think Dancing On Two will
help people learn other styles. Also Congresses help a lot to make people learn
other things in Salsa, the history / culture behind the dancing. I mean, Salsa is
a mix, and that's what's very important. If you look at the Shows they have a
lot of different music, Hip Hop, Jazz and that makes it a little bit more
commercial for those that don't really understand Salsa.

BZ> Teaching would be a challenge sometimes for some people.
         What in your opinion would be the best way to teach a
         non dancer and how do you transfer your message across?
Like a baby that first has to learn how to walk with "small steps", little
by little and with patience. The basics are very important and once you
'get that down to a tea", later on you can dance it how you want.
And it all builds up eventually.

BZ> Thank you very much for your time 'cause I know you must be very tired
         ( this is just after workshop )
It was a pleasure and we hope to be back in Sydney real soon and next time a little longer.