THE PEOPLE!
Introducing our diverse team of expert instructors who bring a fusion of passion and proficiency to the world of dance, yoga, and hip-hop. Our instructors are not only seasoned professionals but also passionate about sharing their expertise to elevate your experience.
In the realm of dance, our team specializes in salsa and bachata, offering guidance that goes beyond the steps to cultivate a deep connection with the rhythm and emotion of these vibrant dance forms. From beginners to advanced levels, our instructors are committed to making your dance journey an enriching and enjoyable one.
Rachel Luc – Una bailarina apasionada en el baile de salsa and bachata.
Born and raised in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, Rachel took her first salsa and bachata lesson in 2009. With more than a decade of dancing experience in Asia and Boston, she has joined various pro teams to perform salsa and bachata and has motivated many students to find their own passion for dancing.
She loves sharing her passion for dancing with her students and welcomes all questions about following techniques and lady styling (and also personal finance! Yes – her other big passion is personal finances). She strongly believes that dancing is not only a great way to lead a fun and healthy life but also an amazing way to connect with like-minded people and build a supportive community. You will find Rachel at Tumbao classes and socials, so don’t forget to come to say hi and share a great dance/conversation together😊
EDMY ORTIZ Flamenco Instructor at Tumbao Latin Dance
Born and raised in the Dominican Republic, Edmy has lived alongside a family of many talents; a family in which exudes the very concept of art, ranging from architects to musicians. She initiated in arts at a very early age; was formed in acrylics and oil paints in the Dominican Republic through several art classes at Bellas Artes and private lessons with Thelma Tejada and Miguel Valenzuela. After finishing her Architectural studies in 2003, she moves to Worcester, Massachusetts where she continued to pursue arts by frequenting numerous classes at the Worcester Art Museum and as a member of ArtsWorcester, presenting her first solo exhibition in 2008 at the ArtsWorcester's gallery at Quinsigamond Community College. Through her pieces she conveys the message of originality and develops a field of opportunities for others to emerge into her ancestry.
Edmy is also a Flamenco dancer. She started Flamenco back in 2001 at the Academy of Spaniard Dance "El Patio Andalúz" where she acquired her solid foundation by studying "Sevillanas, Castañuelas y Técnicas de Clásico Español", directed by Paquita Acosta (Spanish dancer, bailadora). She counts with over 10 years of experience teaching and performing in the Worcester-Boston area, mostly under the training of Maestro Ramon de los Reyes. Mrs. Ortiz has also integrated herself into workshops from Issac de los Reyes, Nino de los Reyes, Soledad Barrio, La Lupi, Pastora Galvan, Jesus Carmona, Jose Maya and Omayra Amaya.
My name is Jennyann, born and raised in Puerto Rico. I am 35 years old, I have a beautiful family. My passion for dancing began in my childhood. I have 13 years of artistic experience, I found my therapy and refuge in dance during difficult times in my childhood. I have danced several genres such as: bachata, reggaeton, merengue, hip hop, and salsa. I arrived in Worcester in 2011, I didn't know much about Worcester, it was difficult for me to know and explore my culture and find a dance studio. I didn't dance for 10 years until I found Tumbao on social media. Since then I started attending classes and then I joined the "Enkanto" dance team. After 2 years I am the Leader of the Kndela Ladies Team. Thanks to Kristian Santos for the opportunity to belong to the studio and be an Instructor for this team.
David Gomez
I've always been captivated by the energy and elegance of salsa dance. After trying classes at various studios, I finally found my perfect fit at Tumbao Latin Dance in 2023. The community and classes ignited a passion within me, and I quickly fell in love with performing in their team dance groups.
As a seasoned hairstylist of 20 years, I'm thrilled to have discovered a new outlet for creativity and self-expression. Sharing my passion with others through teaching has been incredibly rewarding. I love encouraging my clients to take the leap and experience the joy of dance for themselves.
I'm excited to be part of the Tumbao Latin Dance family and look forward to seeing what the future holds!
Elasia Laylay Flowers
Born in New York City, Laylay was surrounded by various cultures and arts that groomed them into the young talent that graces us today. After moving to Massachusetts, Laylay went to performing arts schools where they were introduced to styles such as Jazz and Ballet, genres that weren’t popular at Brooklyn block parties. At age 12 performed in “Cats” at the Hanover Theater, opening up a lane they never thought she could step in. Laylay went on to join a local dance team by the name of In Da Zone. There, she competed in competitions all over New England, and performed at High Schools, Universities, and multiple Festivals. After graduating high school and traveling the country, she moved back to New York where she studied Graphic Design. Laylay now resides in Worcester, Massachusetts where she is the Dance Coordinator at the Boys & Club, Coach for In Da Zone, and Youth Instructor at both Rice Square Elementary and Tumbao Latin Dance.