Interview: Turn Up the Heat with the New York International Salsa Congress!

Salsa is a style of dance and music, with strong Afro-Cuban roots, that is practiced all over the globe. Packed with dance workshops, vendors and world-class performances, the Goya Foods' New York International Salsa Congress (NYISC) is a massive celebration of everything salsa. NYISC takes place from Thursday, August 30, 2018 to Sunday, September 2, 2018 at the New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square. This year the congress celebrates its 18th anniversary and expects over 10,000 attendees. I spoke with NYISC team member, Natalia Maniscalco, to get a deeper, inside look at the event.

BWW: Why was the congress created and why is it important?

Maniscalco: The congress was created to bring the public a higher level of knowledge of Latin dance and music. From novice to professional dancers, the event brings together people of all cultures, ages and backgrounds and exposes them to different styles of salsa and related art forms. NYISC plays an important role in preserving Latin culture in NYC and beyond.

BWW: What are some unique highlights of the congress?

Maniscalco: This year's band line-up includes New Swing Sextet, a favorite among dancers for over 50 years; the big band sound of Steven Oquendo Orchestra, a 21-piece orchestra playing mambo classics, featuring singers Frankie Vazquez and Frankie Morales; and one of the most celebrated salsa vocalists of recent times, Tito Nieves with his powerful voice and his repertoire of hit songs.

We are also hosting dance parties every evening until 4am, featuring DJs playing the best in Salsa, Bachata, and Cha-Cha-Cha, as well as the Old Skool Room, for dancers who frequented the famed NYC nightclubs in the 1950's to the present day. Celebrating its 7th year, the Old Skool Room is dedicated to preserving the tradition of New York, Puerto Rican and Cuban styles of dance and music folklore with LIVE music by La Charanga Pacha. These are just a few of the highlights.

BWW: What can someone new to salsa dancing expect? Seasoned dancers?

Maniscalco: Our congress caters to every level of dancer, from beginners to advanced dancers. We're offering over 60 group workshops for styling, partner work, shines, and more taught by world-renowned dance instructors. In some cases, students will also have a chance to perform!

BWW: What are the benefits of dancing salsa?

Maniscalco: There are many benefits to dancing salsa! From a cultural perspective, it's preserving and continuing Latin traditions. From a fitness perspective, you can burn over 500 calories per hour dancing. So, if you're looking to get into shape, dancing salsa is a great way to shed fat and create muscle, especially in your legs!

Like any type of exercise, it also spikes your endorphins, so you feel fabulous on and off the dance floor. Many also attest to a boost in confidence and, socially, you'll meet a ton of fun people all with a common interest.

The salsa scene is also a breeding ground for romance! In fact, the owners of the NYISC, Vilma and Manny Villavicencio, first met and fell in love on the dance floor at the Copacabana in New York City.

BWW: Tell me about a memorable congress experience.

Maniscalco: Last year, a performer from New York City proposed to his girlfriend on stage, right after their group performed together, and....she said YES! The congress brings people together to create long-lasting relationships and good fun.

BWW: How can we find more information?

Maniscalco: To book a discounted room at the Marriott Marquis, to purchase tickets and for more information please visit www.newyorksalsacongress.com Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Youtube and remember to use hashtag #goyaNYSIC2018 to join the conversation.