3rd edition of UNA BULLA: A Cuban Salsa Extravaganza

Welcome everyone to the 3rd edition of “UNA BULLA! A Cuban Salsa Extravaganza”

*****June 20 - 21 - 22, 2025*****

This three-day dance event will offer 10+ hours of intensive workshops in Casino Salsa, Casino Rueda, and Afro-Cuban.

Friday, June 20th, 2025, (more info to come)

Saturday, June 21st, 2025, (More info to come)

Sunday, June 22nd, 2025 (More info to come)

***Official instructors***

• Alain Rueda & Katerina Mik (Italy)
• High Five Salsa (London, England)
• Ethan Wagner (New York, USA)
• Dreyser Garcia (Toronto, Canada)
• Dasner Francois (Gatineau, Canada)
• Lisa Dubois (Gatineau, Canada)
• Tito C. Rodriguez (Montréal, Canada)

I am pleased to present one of the highlight events of the 3rd edition of UNA BULLA:

Alain Rueda & Katerina Mik.

Alain, originally from Cuba, and Katerina, hailing from Russia, have made France their home for the past decade. Together, they represent a remarkable fusion of spirit, affection, and a deep passion for Cuban culture. This dynamic duo stays attuned to the latest trends in Cuban music, skillfully teaching how to weave modernity and evolution into their dance style. You can expect an exhilarating experience in their classes, as they radiate energy, positivity, joy, love, and passion every time they take the stage.

Alain, a native of Santiago de Cuba, graduated from the School of Art Instructors in Santiago. He is celebrated for his dedication to sharing traditional dances and cultural heritage with those eager to explore the richness of his country. Alain strives to teach others to experience Cuban music from a fresh perspective.

Katerina is an exceptionally gifted dancer hailing from Russia. With a background in classical ballet and modern jazz, she discovered her passion for Cuban Salsa, which has since become her signature style. Katerina possesses a profound appreciation for Afro-Cuban culture and traditional Cuban dance forms. Her unique dance style is characterized by its vibrant femininity and sensual allure.

For their second time in Ottawa, please welcome High Five Salsa at the 3rd edition of UNA BULLA. Both originally from Spain, Noe & Diego, are primarily passionate dancers, always looking for a good time. Their courses are a subtle mix of techniques, fun, and challenge.

New to this event, I would like to introduce one of our new instructors, Dreyser Garcia.

Dreyser Garcia began his dance journey at the age of 12, immersing himself in various Cuban rhythms and Afro-Cuban dance styles. His professional career commenced in 2002 in Havana, Cuba, where he joined The American Theatre dance company, performing regularly in theaters, nightclubs, and television shows. In 2006, Dreyser expanded his horizons by traveling to Italy to teach and showcase his talents at the Salsa World Festival. His teaching and performance engagements have also taken him to Ecuador and Nicaragua.

In 2008, Dreyser accepted a position at a hotel in Cayo Largo Del Sur, Cuba, where he showcased 14 different performances each week while providing daily lessons in Cuban dance forms.

In 2013, he relocated to Toronto, where he taught Afro-Cuban rhythms, Cuban Salsa/Casino Rueda, and Bachata at Steps Dance Studio until March 2017. During his time there, Dreyser choreographed a Casino Rueda routine that was performed at the Toronto Salsa Congress in 2015. He also had the honor of choreographing and performing Salsa and Afro-Cuban styles for the 2015 Toronto Pan Am Games. Additionally, he appeared in the television series 11.22.63, starring James Franco, where he was filmed dancing the Waltz.

Dance is Dreyser's enduring passion, and he is dedicated to sharing this love with his students at Drey Dance Academy.

Liethis Hechavarria is a distinguished and innovative international dancer, instructor, choreographer, cultural ambassador, and travel host. Born and raised in Santiago de Cuba until the age of 13, she then relocated with her family to New York City. Hechavarria embarked on her dance training at the tender age of four and has since dedicated over 25 years to the performing arts industry. Currently, she holds the position of principal dancer, choreographer, and assistant artistic director at Oyu Oro Afro-Cuban Experimental Dance Ensemble, the premier Afro-Cuban dance company in NYC, where she has contributed for more than 15 years.

Please welcome for the third year in a row, Joaquin & Monica from Aguanile & Pure Havana dance studio

For the third year in a row, let’s welcome Tito Cardenas Rodriguez to UNA BULLA!!!

Tito’s impressive career in teaching, dance, and cultural leadership reflects his deep passion for Cuban and Afro-Cuban traditions. His role as the Director of the Maison de la Culture Cubane de Montréal showcases his commitment to promoting Cuban arts and heritage in Canada. Additionally, his dedication as the Director and teacher of the Academy and the Titosalsabor Dance Troupe highlights his influence in shaping the next generation of dancers.

As the President of the Agua cultural festival (Aché-Wemilere), Tito orchestrates a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity and artistic expression. In Cuba, his experience as the Director of the House of Culture of the University of Havana and the Folkloric Ballet of the University of Havana further solidifies his reputation as a respected cultural figure.

Tito’s educational background is equally impressive, with a Certificate in international business management from HEC, University of Montreal, showcasing his diverse skill set. His Diploma in Sociocultural Anthropology from the Fernando Ortiz Foundation in Cuba underscores his deep understanding of cultural dynamics. Furthermore, his Diploma in Cultural Production and Promotion from the Ministry of Culture of Cuba and his Economics degree from the University of Havana reflect his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.