Monique Guzman
Professional Dancer, Choreographer,Performer, Instructor
619-726-6831
I have been dancing and performing since the age of five, studying traditional and classical dance: Ballet and Tap; Thru the years, I moved on with Jazz and Break-Dance. I found my true love in the Latin dances. These dance forms were in my life since I was born. They are part of my culture and upbringing. I have specialized in FLAMENCO, ARGENTINE TANGO, SAMBA, & SALSA. I have been dancing professionally since 2004, with the creation of my dance company Latin Grooves.
FLAMENCO:
I have been dancing flamenco for 14 years. I have studied with various teachers in San Diego and Los Angeles. In 2006, I left to live in Spain, both in Sevilla and Madrid to continue intense study. I danced in the tablao Costa Brava in San Diego for nearly a year as main soloist. I have performed in various venues and with well-renown flamencos. I have studied under: Domingo Ortega, Chrisobal Reyes, La Tati, La Truco, Juana Amaya, Manolo Marin, Maria Bermudez, and more. Most recently, I was grateful to be able to dance with the SD Symphony at the Copley Theatre and in Mexico at the Cecut Theatre for the “Flamenco-Song, Dance, passion” Light-Bulb Concert. In addition, with Sir Sultry’s “Spanish Day”, a Rock Opera. I continue to teach privates and create fusion flamenco pieces. Currently teaching a Beginners Flamenco every Wed night for Oh La La Dance Company.
SAMBA:
I have been dancing samba for 7 years. I have studied with various teachers both in SD and LA. I attend California Brazil Camp for five years running, where I have studied with teachers from Bahia and Rio. I perform regularly as soloist and with Super Sonic Samba School. I am currently the Dance Director of Super Sonic Samba School and Board Member. I was honored to be the "Rainha da Bateria" 2010-2011, the Queen of Samba. I teach a samba class bi-weekly. I study and teach Samba Reggae, Axe, Forro, Maculele, & Orixas as a form of dance.
ARGENTINE TANGO:
I have been dancing Argentine Tango for 11 years, studying with various teachers in SD and LA. I went on to study in Buenos Aires in 2006. I have had the pleasure to study with Jorge Torres of Forever Tango, Norberto Esprez “El Pulpo” and Firpo. I recently joined “Pulpo” as his assistant in SD Tango workshop. I have co-directed a SD Tango performance team with Michael Sultus of Positive Energy. I also teach group class and privates. I perform at various private and public events.
SALSA:
I have been dancing Salsa since I could walk. I do group beginner classes and teach privates. I dedicate on teaching the principles and “Barrio” styling. My aim is to teach love of music, feeling the beat, and dancing from the soul with style.
Other Styles/Continued Training:
I continue to expand my knowledge and study Ballet at Mesa College, & Hip-Hop at Culture Shock. I also take classes in Bomba, Capoeira, Afro-Cuban, & Belly-Dance.
