When second-year linguistics student Misha Agunos attended her freshman orientation, she was drawn to the vibe of the UCLA Ballroom Dance Club and International Folk Dance Club and has been part of the group ever since.
The club, of which Agunos is now president, will hold its Big Salsa Night tonight in Ackerman Grand Ballroom.
“I showed up the first night, and then I just stuck with it. This is a way to get people interested, let them know what we’re about and to kick off the year with something fun and exciting,” Agunos said. “Salsa is a lot less intense than other types of dance and (is) easier to teach.”
The evening will begin with a mini tutorial and basic overview of salsa moves taught by professional instructors, followed by dancing to live music by Los Angeles salsa band Opa Opa.
This is the first year that Opa Opa will perform, as a result of the death of Cuban drummer Francisco Aguabella, whose band was featured in previous years.
“They’re relatively well-known in the salsa community in L.A., and most students would not have the opportunity to hear a live band like this otherwise,” Agunos said.
Big Salsa Night originally began in October of 2001 as a part of the New Student Welcome for transfer students. According to Agunos, the number of people who attend the event has quickly ascended over the years, with 450 students participating during fall quarter of 2008.
Cynthia Harper, former president of the club and one of the instructors for tonight’s event, said that students should not be afraid to come and try something new during this evening of dance.
“Most people that come either enjoy dancing or are coming for the first time and have never danced before. It is infectious, with the rhythms and the music,” Harper said.
According to Agunos, one of the best things about the event is that no prior experience, specific dress or style of footwear is required.
“We love to get people who have no experience and are just interested in dancing. The live music definitely provides a different atmosphere than just listening to something from a DJ or a radio,” Agunos said.
Because students are so busy when they first arrive on campus, Harper said Big Salsa Night is a way for students to ease into the quarter and introduce themselves to new people.
Sam Neff, a second-year mechanical engineering student and vice president of the club, said he enjoys the social aspect of ballroom dancing.
“I think that dance promotes social confidence, and it is a very good way of getting out of your shell and having something to do while meeting new people,” Neff said. “If there is an awkward pause in the conversation, just lead them into a turn.”