About Your Latin Dance Teacher in Melbourne

SKY BLUE

Sky Blue, director of Picante Productions, founder of the Byron Latin Fiesta

MY TEACHING APPROACH

My unique teaching technique focuses on first teaching the rhythm and movement of the traditional dance styles. Steps are broken down in detail, solid techniques are taught and repetition is used to help absorb and retain the material you have learnt.

I believe that “everyone can dance” and that there is no such thing as “two left feet”. All you need is a good dance instructor, the desire to learn and a healthy dose of patience!

As a dance instructor, choreographer, and event organiser, my work is driven by a deep love for Latin dance, music, and beautifully curated creative experiences. Having been self-employed for many years, I find immense joy and fulfilment in what I do. I love to support others through their dance journey, and I enjoy creating celebrations and moments that leave lasting memories.  

Join me for private dance lessons, workshops, or bootcamps and experience the joy of dance. Looking for support to bring an event to life? I’d love to hear from you.

 

MY DANCE EXPERIENCE

With over 20 years’ experience as a dance instructor, I specialise in teaching Street Latin. Styles include Cuban Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cha Cha Cha, Kizomba, Reggaeton, and Samba.

Students are guided to master the fundamentals, refine their techniques, and build confidence for the dance floor. Over the years, I have taught thousands of people, from absolute beginners to experienced dancers, as well as corporate groups, wedding couples, and more.

MY EVENT EXPERIENCE

As an accomplished event organiser and festival director with over 15 years of experience, I thrive on coordinating dance and music festivals that create memorable experiences for all. Passionate about crafting unique moments, I take a hands-on approach with meticulous attention to detail. My expertise spans concept design, event styling, décor, programming, promotions, logistics, and more.

I believe festivals and events have the power to bring people together to connect, learn, share, and be inspired. I am the founder and director of the annual Byron Latin Fiesta, Australia’s longest-running Latin dance festival, and have also successfully directed the Sydney International Bachata Festival, Sydney Cuban Salsa Congress, Melbourne Kizomba Festival, and Festival de Ritmo.

Career Highlights

  • FOUNDER & DIRECTOR, Picante Productions, 2014 – 2025 (ongoing)
  • FOUNDER & DIRECTOR, Byron Latin Fiesta, 2006 – 2025 (ongoing)
  • DIRECTOR, Sydney International Bachata Festival, 2008 – 2020
  • FOUNDER & DIRECTOR, Festival de Ritmo, 2018
  • EVENT STYLIST, Byron Bay & Noosa, 2016 – 2018
  • DIRECTOR, Sydney Cuban Salsa Congress, 2010 – 2017
  • DIRECTOR, Melbourne Kizomba Festival, 2014 – 2016
  • FOUNDER & DIRECTOR, Picante Latin Dance, 1999 – 2013
  • STAGE MANAGER, New Zealand Salsa Congress, 2009
  • STAGE MANAGER, Sydney Salsa Congress, 2007
  • EVENT COORDINATOR, Australian National Salsa Championships, 2005 – 2006
  • EVENT COORDINATOR, Latin Dance Corroboree, 2005
  • EVENT STYLIST, Staging Connections, Sydney 2003 – 2005
  • COSTUME DESIGNER, Sydney Mardi Gras Parade, 2002
  • COSTUME DESIGNER, Sydney Olympics Opening Ceremony, 2000

Mission Statement - DANCE

To teach with passion and understanding for the dance styles, the music and the cultures from where the styles originated. To teach with integrity. To be sensitive to my students needs and to deliver a quality service to my clients.

Mission Statement - EVENTS

To create events that are executed with passion and flare and which create lasting memories. To use great attention to detail with delivery and quality of service so as to leave clients with an exceptional all round experience.

Artist Promotions

  • Promoter for International Musicians Cuban Orchestra: Los Van Van (direct from Cuba). Bachata singers & groups: 4Ever, Xtreme, Monchy y Nathalia, Domenic Marte, Daniel SantaCruz, Grupo Extra, Karlos Rose, Dani J
  • Promoter for Bachata Dancers: Kim & Geo (Canada), Micka & Emi (France), Junior & Carolina (Sweden), Samy el Magico (France), Nino Acosta (USA), Edwin & Dakota (USA), Joanna & Fabrice (France), Tanja & Jorge (USA), Carlos Cinta (USA), Troy & Jorget (USA), Daniel & Desiree (Spain), Judith & Korke (Spain), Seemore & Cristina (Spain), Jorget (USA), Gatica & Keskia (France), Gabriel & Leticia (Argentina)
  • Promoter for Cuban Dancers Leysis Smith (Italy/Cuba), Jorge Camaquey (Spain/Cuba), Alevia Rodriguez (Italy/Cuba), Dawes Figueroa (Italy/Cuba), Solangel Fernandez (Germany/Cuba), Janet Fuentes (UK), Eric & Chantal Turro Martinez (Cuba/Aust), Cruz Vasquez (Cuba/Aust), Osmani Segura (Cuba/Germany)
  • Promoter for Kizomba Dancers Sara Lopez (Spain), Albir Rojas (Spain), Isabelle & Felicien (France), Morenasso & Anais (France), Sika & Khalifa (UK), Tamas Nagy (Hungary), Yami & Steffi (France), Mike Evens & Macarena Paton (France/Spain), Rico & Adda (UK), Azzedine (France)