Name Flavio Manzo
Age 34
Works for Sabor Latino Dance

What do you do?
I am a salsa teacher. I specialise in Caribbean and Afro-Cuban dance styles. These include the salsa, cha cha, merengue, bachata and more. Salsa teachers usually have their own dance company, so they can give live performances, prepare for public events and promote their dance style.

Where did you learn to dance?
I began dancing in Italy and went to Cuba to learn the traditions and to perfect my style and technique. I believe it’s important to try to travel to Cuba. There I learnt how to teach and got a few European certificates that allowed me to become a salsa instructor.

Are there any subjects you can take in school to help you follow this career?
Physical education helps you keep fit and gain co-ordination and balance. Musical studies may help you understand the basic elements of tempo beats.

Describe a typical day at work.
I only start teaching in the late afternoon, unless I’ve been booked for a private class. I alternate teaching between clubs that host demo classes and social dancing, along with professional studio classes. The weekends are usually dedicated to performance rehearsals.

Is it easy to find work as an instructor in South Africa?
No, unfortunately salsa isn’t well known in SA. People aren’t familiar with the music or the dances, but when they listen and see the moves, they like the energy.

Is the job financially rewarding?
Unfortunately I don’t make a living from it and there are very few people in the world who do.

What personality traits should an instructor have?
You need to have a great public relations team and a constant smile.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
When I perform at live shows and private functions.

Is there anything you don’t like about it?
No, salsa is a global cultural movement that’s fun and entertaining for everyone.

What advice would you give other instructors?
Try to visit Cuba to study their religion and history. Knowledge of salsa builds a very strong foundation for the understanding of its dance concepts.

FACT CHECK
Many tertiary institutions have a dedicated faculty offering dance or performance art. Go to tertiaryeducation.co.za.

There are various independent Latin and ballroom dance schools across South Africa. To find an accredited school in your area, log on to ballroomdancing.co.za.