David Royer

Name: David Kenneth Royer
Age: 24
Nationality: American
Currently residing: Louisville, Kentucky (U.S.A.)
Profession: Dance Instructor, Choreographer, Performer www.TheArtInMotion.com
Salsa Style: Advanced New York Mambo on2 / LA Style Salsa on1

 

How long have you been dancing for?

I was exposed to Salsa about 6 years ago, but have been truly dancing it for 3 years.

What made you start with salsa?

I started dancing Salsa after I saw a clip on the Internet of Orville Small and Ana Hovanessian dancing Salsa, and was determined to learn.

Where do you take your lessons?

I take lessons when I travel to Salsa Congresses.

What’s your best salsa tip for a night out in Louisville?

My best tip for a Salsa night out in Louisville would be my event on the first Saturday of each month at Dance Louisville with a live band and the best floor in town.

What is your best salsa memory?

My best Salsa memory is the Chicago International Salsa Congress 2009. This was the point where I felt my Salsa dancing get significantly better after getting to dance with so many phenomenal Salseras.

What is your worst salsa experience?

My worst Salsa experience happened when I went in for a Salsa lesson when I was in high school and received an instructor I don’t think had ever danced Salsa in her life.

What are the best salsa tips you have for men/women dancing salsa?

1. For men: Don’t worry about combinations so much. I see so many beginner/intermediate level male dancers where I can see them figuring out which movement or combination to do next. Just keep a nice flow going and you are much more likely to have a great dance.
2. For women: Keep your head up when you are dancing and remember that styling is there so you can look good (which all guys will admit….you do look good), but it’s important to use styling to help the flow of the dance, not hinder it.

Which song will get you up on the dance floor?

The song that will always get me on the dance floor is “Ran Kan Kan” by Tito Puente

Which salsa dancer/teacher/choreographer inspires you?

I get inspired by Juan Calderon, Magna Gopal and Oliver Pineda

Where do you see salsa going in 5 years from now?

I see Salsa continuing to evolve and grow, especially as dancers look to many other dance styles such as Hip Hop and Tango for inspiration. Salsa dancers are continually pushing everything to the next level.

What inspires you on the dance floor?

I get inspired by the music and the connection I am feeling with the person I am dancing with.

Lastly, if there was one salsa wish you could make, what would that be?

My Salsa wish is to be able to spread my knowledge and love for Salsa on a global level through instruction, performing, and dancing.