ABOUT

Your Dance Instructors

Carla Naar

Carla Naar has been teaching and dancing several different dance forms over the last 20 years. She is a certified MAC Brazilian Zouk Dance Instructor and a professional belly dancer.

Dance has been an intrinsic part of Carla's life from a young age. Her dance journey started with ballet but in 2002 she fell in love with Belly dance and has dedicated her career to it since. Carla began traveling frequently to Egypt in 2009 and has also lived and worked in the land of Belly dance. During her times in Egypt, Carla studied with many master teachers and traveled extensively throughout the country. Carla's artistic vision has been shaped by her research both at near and abroad, and her extensive dance background. Originally from Brazil, Carla is now based in Vancouver, Canada where she shares her love for Belly dance, Brazilian Zouk and multiple cultures with her students.

Javier Monsalve

Javier has been teaching and dancing several different latin partner dance forms over the last 15 years. He is a certified MAC Brazilian Zouk Dance Instructor and also a passionate DJ.

Javi('Havi') has been a part of the Lower Mainland as well as Vancouver Island's Dance Community for over a decade. He has been key community member in spreading the love and joy of latin partner dance forms in the island. He spends his time teaching Brazilian Zouk and Bachata in Vancouver as well in the Island.

VALUES

Our Teaching Philosophy

Connection

The best part of partner dancing is how it feels. We teach you presence and awareness of your body and energy and how to respond and adapt to your partners.

Musicality

More than technique, we want you to learn how to hear and interpret the music to create a totally unique mood to your dance.

Empathy

Consent is paramount in partner dancing and we build dancers to be ethical and compassionate to themselves, their partners, and the community.

Technicality

More than technique, we want you to learn how to hear and interpret the music to create a totally unique mood to your dance.

Inclusivity

We believe anyone can lead, anyone can follow, and anyone can dance. All are welcome into this space and we co-create the space with you and to your comfort level.

Playfulness

The only time you’re not “doing it right” is when you’re not having fun! We are known for bringing an element of light-heartedness and play to every dance experience.