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Espie Hernandez began salsa dancing in April 2000 and in 2001 began teaching, competing and performing at an international level. However, it was the West Coast Salsa Congress that made a big impact on her life. After meeting David in the local clubs, he, along with Josie and Stephan, asked her to join them in their Dance Company, Salsa y Fuego. 5 months later, she joined forces with David tocreate Rumba Rica. Although Espie had never had any formal dance training in any particular dance, her training in musical theatre and cheerleading allowed her to pick up on choreography faster than is expected. Her desire to learn and enthusiasm has allowed her to improve as well as introduce her to a whole new level of dancing.
Espie’s vast experience in music has allowed her to introduce a new level of salsa dancing in Orange County. Being a musician for over 21 years, has allowed us to experience a new style of salsa. Combining her love and vast knowledge of music and her influences from various dancers has helped and will continue to assist in the growth in Orange County Salsa.
She is nationally and internationally recognized as one of the best female instructors and received many awards in this category including a nomination in the "Golden Salsa Awards" for Best female instructor. Espie is a certified dance intructor having received her DVIDA® Certification. The DVIDA® Syllabus is being used by hundreds of studios and teachers in the United States and is recognized by the National Dance Council of America (NDCA the official governing body for dancing in the United States.)
Espie is also the Director and Choreographer of Atomic Ballroom's salsa dance team "Rumba Rica Dance Company" and in her 12 years experience, she has shared the stage with many artists including Eddie Santiago, The Buena Vista Social Club and the Late GREAT MICHEAL JACKSON.
Espie dance classes are characterized for combining technical facts in a very fun environment. To this date, she continues to perform throughout the World and teaching classes at international and national events. You can now find her teaching weekly at Atomic Ballroom in Placentia, where her ultimate goal is to educate her students in the latin dance culture and creathe growth and unity within our community trhough dance.
Although Salsa is her forte, Espie is also a ballroom teacher and counts West Coast swing as one of her favorite dances.