TESTIMONIALS
I want to thank you for your corrections last night, especially that you noticed that I have tendency not to lean forward enough. First, no Salsa teacher has ever talked about this, and secondly as I began to be conscious of the right form, I felt more grounded, balanced and my lead became more firm and clear:) You are a very good teacher. Your emphasis on the basics is very helpful to me. Plus you make the classes fun. I love the humour and emphasis on flirting and getting in touch with our sexual energy. Again, no previous teachers have ever talked about this, let alone actually developed this in the class participants. It's very unfortunate, because that's what makes dancing fun. Over the last few years I have become very fixated on the technicalities of the steps, which I know is important. But dance, like any art form, is an expression of the heart, and Latin dance in particular, also overtly expresses the heart of the deepest part of our identity: our sexuality.
Anyways, I'm very glad we found you.
Muchos gracias,
Tom Schroeder, Clinical Coordinator
AFCM & Cuban Salsa classes, 2010
Thanks for connecting me with an instructor in Havana. For a long time I’d dreamed about traveling to Cuba and studying dance but I wasn’t sure how to go about it. So it was great to find out that Latidos Productions arranges private classes with professional teachers. I ended up staying in Havana for three weeks and taking classes almost every day, and it was such a great experience. The instructor you hooked me up with is amazing! Not only is she a phenomenal dancer, she’s a great teacher and totally passionate about her art form. From the first class I could see that I was in the presence of a true professional, and yet she was totally fun. After this first trip to Cuba I feel like I have a good foundation in the dances that I studied, and hopefully it’s just the beginning. So thanks again for your advice and help with everything. I really appreciate that you’re using your own years of experience to facilitate cultural exchanges for other people.
Carolyn Wong, Project Coordinator
Classes with professional dancers in Cuba, 2009
Just a note to tell you how much your classes mean to me.
I have been enjoying them so much that it's hard to describe. I feel my coordination getting better and my body changing as we work through the different moves. Your teaching methods are so clear and you have such patience.... not to mention, the music is fantastic and it is always fun!
I look forward to taking your classes each week and also many more in the future!
Thanks again,
Becoming sexier,
Leslie Cairns, Pattern Maker
Reggaeton & Afro-Cuban Movements classes, 2008
The Latidos Productions classes are fun, high energy and a great workout! The classes are organized, well structured, and build progressively so you are always making improvements. Chen Lizra breaks down complex movements into manageable steps, so they are really accessible, even if you are like me, and have no previous dance experience. By creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Latidos provides an open door into the Cuban Dance Community in Vancouver. Whether you are new to dancing, or looking to perfect your technique, the Latidos classes will meet your needs, and push you towards your goals.
Katie Benjamin, B.HKin, Personal Trainer
Cuban Salsa, Reggaeton, Afro-Cuban Movements classes, Vancouver 2008
Chen Lizra is the absolute most patient and understanding dance teacher I have ever worked with. Honestly, I am not a dancer, but I really wanted to learn to shake my booty Cuban sexy style! She works with me over and over and by the end of the lesson I have learned something I never thought I could and she cheers me on..! Gracias gracias gracias, Chica!
Denise Beirnes
Private lessons, Vancouver 2008
I am really enjoying the Orishas classes and i feel I am in good hands with you! You are a great dance teacher, I love the attention to detail and hands on instruction... I can feel your passion for dance and I am inspired deeply by this! Gracias Chen! Baila baila baila...
Paz y Luz,
Brycken Olive
Orishas Classes, Vancouver 2008
I must tell you - I've taken many dance classes here in Vancouver
and yours is by far the most fun.
I sing your praises to everyone I meet - you really do have an
amazing ability to share your knowledge and love in an expression of pure
enjoyment and sexiness to those who are willing to indulge in your classes
Vancouver is very blessed to have you you can set people on fire girl again
- thank you so much.
Laurie Cocardon
Reggaeton Women Only classes, Vancouver 2008
I want to say a big thank you for all the wonderful information about upcoming events. I have been looking for something like this for so long and finally, thanks to Chen Lizra, I won't feel as if I'm missing out on what's happening in the Latino/Afro community.
Sarita Burrowes
Afro-Cuban Movements classes, Vancouver 2008
Thanks again for the excellent lessons. We really appreciated the way you helped get everyone out on the dance floor at the wedding. It made for a great time. It is not easy to invite an unknown entity to one's wedding. We were drawn to your professional manner that came through in your email. This was clearly evident in person as well. The classes were fun and easy to participate in, even getting the self proclaimed non-dancers to dance. We have both taken some dance instruction in Salsa previously. We were pleased and impressed with your ability to present the material to beginners in a fun and easily accessible manner without sacrificing the necessary core basics. It was great.
Thanks again.
Joel & Pilar
Wedding, Vancouver 2007
When I started taking the Latidos classes last fall, I never imagined I would become so addicted. It has been quite an experience, and what I have learned I hope to carry with me forever. A big part of it has to do with Chen's never-faltering enthusiasm, her attention to detail and her love for the dances she teaches. And of course, there are also all the amazing individuals you meet whether in class or at the social events. My motivation is to someday dance as natural as a Cuban.
Amir P. S.
Private and Group classes, Vancouver 2007
I just wanted to say thank you for the workshop this afternoon. It was so much fun- definitely worth canceling my plans for! Looking forward to signing up for classes in the fall.
Michelle Etienne - May 2007
Reggaeton workshop for women only!
Latidos Productions came to our high school, this year, and taught our senior class a wonderful dance of Cuban Salsa in lines, called Sueltas. The classes were enthusiastic and the students really enjoyed them. They were able to learn and perform a routine after only six sessions and not only learned a new way of moving but had a lot of fun doing it!
I would definitely recommend the Latidos Productions classes to any other teacher wanting to add Latin dancing to the repertoire of their school.
Marnie Maretic - April 2007
Sir Charles Tupper Secondary School - Dance Department
I wanted to thank you for the Reggaeton workshop last Saturday, I loved it! You created a really comfortable and fun environment. Along with teaching the dance moves, I believe you are reinforcing for North American women what Latinos already know--there is no reason to be ashamed of your body, so embrace it! This is definitely an important message. I will definitely enroll in a Reggaeton session when it works with my schedule.
Serena Matter
Reggaeton workshop, Jan. 2007
I had a blast taking your Cuban Line Dancing and Reggaeton classes this past year. I've always enjoyed trying new & different things, but you've really challenged me to dance like I've never danced before. Thank you for being a great dance instructor. You really bring great energy, sense of humour & that "flavour" into your dance classes. I look forward to the Rumba classes in January...
Jean Parlina
Reggaeton and Cuban Line Dancing classes, Dec. 2006
Hi, Thanks a lot for this workshop. I insist, it should be done on a regular basis. This is such a therapy for a couple. Learning how to spice up the relationship through this workshop is worth a year+ of counseling.. I had a hell of a time! Great workshop! and mainly, inspiring instructor :)
yours truly,
Antoine Tessier
Reggaeton workshop for Men and Women, Dec. 2006
I went to the free Reggaeton workshop this past weekend.. WOW! absolutely loved it.. Chen was amazing, and made it lots of fun.
Stefania Di Palma
Vancouver,Nov 13, 2006
Reggaeton workshop for Men and Women
Thanks for providing these classes, it is the best thing that I have done for myself for awhile.
Ciao,
Meredith Burney
Son and Salsa Classes, Vancouver 2006
Wow, who knew that dance could be such incredible therapy from the moment I first saw Chen perform Reggaeton I knew I wanted to dance like that. It brings out such passion, sensuality and rhythm within the soul, allowing you to bring these things to the surface and express them in a fun and contagious way. Reggaeton has definitely brought out my sensual, sexual self again, not to mention what a fabulous work out it is. I swear I've lost inches off my waist! Chen is a wonderful, patient, professional teacher who makes learning to dance so much fun. Come prepared to break down some personal walls!
Bev Wright, Makeup artist
Reggaeton Classes, Vancouver 2006
I attended Chen's 'Expressive Dance Art' workshop on June 13, 2005. I must say that I was pleasantly surprised. The workshop got me thinking about how I use (and sometimes abuse) my body.
Chen's workshop was a great combination of exploring myself, connecting with another person, allowing my body to move to the music, and expressing myself and the music through movements. At the end of the workshop, I was relaxed, full of energy, and felt free.
I think Chen knows what it is like not to be able to dance freely. She was a great help to me in realizing my limitations and giving me the proper tools to overcome them. I truly enjoyed her workshop.
Sahar Khalili
Re: Lead and Follow workshop
I am an Intermediate level, LA style, salsa student, and found the lead and follow workshop to be very helpful. I learned that dancing is not so much about a series of moves, but about flow and connection between partners. Chen has a gentle and attentive teaching style that made the class fun and helped me to improve my dancing.
Stephen Sharp, MD, 2005
When Chen approached me about writing a testimony about my experience as her student, I didn't know where to start, because there are so many things I can say about her. I decided to limit myself to two aspects. The first one is her as a dance teacher and the second one is the impact of attending her classes. Chen is a true professional with international exposure and many years of experience in dancing. Whether she is teaching her workshops or a "Rueda de Casino" class, you feel that you are in the presence of someone that truly knows what she is doing. She has the ability to transmit her knowledge in a very understandable way while at the same time injecting her energy, dynamism and even humor during her lessons. The students "hate" it when the workshop is over and everyone asks or just waits until she announces her next one. I feel she is one of Vancouver's real jewels and we are so lucky to have her. She just arrived from Cuba where she trained with one of the best salsa teachers for 4 hours each day, plus daily practices in Cuban real clubs and neighborhoods. I doubt that we could find someone as devoted as she is to her dancing and teaching. Finally, for me, as a physician and as a psychiatrist in training, with a very busy and demanding profession, there is nothing better that I could do with my limited time, than to cherish and attend as many of her classes as possible (even after being on call all night long at the emergency department), as I feel like a new person when I leave the room.
Dr. Carolina Vidal, 2005
Postgraduate Program in Psychiatry
University of British Columbia
Chen's workshops are a blast! The last one I had the privilege of attending, was her Reggaeton workshop for women only, and to say the least, it was hot! We moved for a good hour and half, body parts we didn't even know existed, while we learned to really listen to the music. Chen has this zest about her, and even when we had to pair up with another female to do some funky sexy moves, it didn't feel uncomfortable; she just knows how to break your shell and let you feel loose in any circumstances. She explained a little about the music and its meaning, which helped connect us to it even more, which makes all the difference when you dance; its all about your heart and soul being in the music. And of course, not to forget the most important part, I had so much fun, and that's what dancing should be. Some profs make you feel like they are judging you and in turn, intimidate you in some way, but Chen just creates a relaxed, easy-going atmosphere. All in all, it was awesome, and I can't wait for another. Feeling the sweat already!
Inka Hadzismajlovic, 2005
Chen was like a big sister to me. She comforted me at time when my concentration was failing me and was ready to quit the fifth time. I didn't and I am happy that I kept going with the classes. She is a very responsible and talented instructor. She pays serious personal attention to her students. When a dance event is posted she makes sure everybody gets the message. She even does a follow up. I believe she is well equipped with knowledge of salsa dance to be a good instructor as especially for beginner students.
Stevhan Bonn, 2004
Chen is an inspiring teacher! I appreciate her passion and love for movement, it's infectious! Her instruction is direct, efficient, challenging and she pays attention to the details. She is also great at addressing each student's struggles in a clear, effective and inviting way. Chen is thoughtful and encourages people to find the best way to express themselves through dance. This woman is all around DELICIOUS!!!!!
Smooches,
Dawn Saucy, Universal Gospel Choir - 2004
Unlike the military method of teaching salsa here in Scotland, your patience and friendly approach to teaching makes supple even the most wooden of characters. The enjoyment of dancing salsa, Cuban style, on a Friday evening soon put the week back into perspective and replaced my Friday night drinking sessions. Like the worst of addictions, I was hooked.
I am sure my thanks would be echoed by everyone in our dance class.
On your next crusade you should come and teach the British how to dance and have FUN doing it!
Stuart Caunt, 2003
