Latin Fusion Unleashed: Behind the Moves with Linda

By: Coral Barnes

TThe Latin Fusion dance style is truly a one-of-a-kind experience in today’s dance culture, from the style combining traditional Latin dance styles like salsa, bachata, reggaeton, merengue, cha-cha, cumbia, and samba with popular dance styles like hip-hop, contemporary, jazz, street styles, and even ballroom styles to create a truly unique and dynamic style that has changed the game of the dance world.

The key features that this dance is often used for are in concerts, solo, duos, or groups. The choreography often combines footwork, body isolation, hip movements, along with the attitude, musicality, and/or floorwork of another style. The music used in this dance style can vary from Latin Pop and Reggaeton to global hits and remixes, it’s always an unexpected and unforgettable experience!

This style of dance is a celebration of Latin roots, mixing with the global movement of dance. Its high-energy, constantly evolving, and expressive nature has made students who attend classes of this style more curious in a way that it has combined both culture and experimentation in one.

Today, I interviewed Linda, the Latin Fusion teacher here at Elemental Studios, to discuss her journey with teaching this style of dance and her experience with showcasing her culture.

Linda is a teacher who is truly unstoppable, warm, and kind, who defines the magic of teaching. She creates a great experience for all of her students while making a space that makes students feel like they can truly be themselves and grow strong in their dance journey. She brings a beautiful energy that truly makes the class special to each student who attends her class.

Here is our Interview!

What is your favorite thing about being a teacher at Elemental Studios?

Linda: “My favorite thing about being a teacher at Elemental Studios is the energy exchange that happens through dance. There’s something really special about watching people show up, give it their all, and grow with each class. It’s just about teaching choreography—it’s about building a space where people feel supported, challenged, and celebrated. Also, the community and staff here are truly badass! Their passion, dedication, and positivity create an environment that inspires both teachers and students alike. That mutual energy is what makes teaching here so fun and fulfilling for me.”

How do you define “Latin Fusion” in your teaching and choreography?

Linda: “ Latin Fusion, to me, is all about mixing the roots and the rhythm —blending styles like salsa, reggaeton, cumbia, and bachata with other genres like hip-hop or contemporary to create something fun and fresh. In my classes, I like to bring high energy, authenticity, and a little sazón, so students not only learn the steps but also feel the music and the emotion behind it.”

When did you start your journey with Latin dance styles, and how have these styles made you appreciate them more?

Linda: “I’ve danced to Latin music my whole life—it’s in my blood. The styles, the culture, the rhythms…it’s all rooted in me. Growing up, I was always that person dancing at family parties, quinceañeras, and weddings–you’d always find me on the dance floor. But my official teaching journey didn’t start until 2022, when I began teaching Zumba Fitness. Zumba blends Latin dance styles with high-energy movement, and that experience deepened my love and appreciation for Latin dance even more. It helped understand the power of these styles—how they bring people joy, build community, and connect us to something bigger than just the movement. That’s when I knew I wanted to keep growing, learning, and sharing that passion in a more creative and intentional way.”

What are some of your favorite styles of Latin Dance that you have incorporated into your own choreography?

Linda: “I honestly love all Latin styles, but my top favorites to choreograph are cumbia and salsa. There’s just something about those beats—they just hit my soul in a different way, and my body can’t help but move. I love how both styles allow for so much expression, from sharp footwork to smooth turns, and how they bring out the joy in movement.”

How do you adapt your teaching skills for different levels or learning styles for students?

Linda: “I always try to meet my students where they’re at, whether they’re beginners just getting comfortable or more advanced dancers looking to be challenged. I break things down in a way that’s approachable, while still keeping the class fun and engaging. I like to use a mix of visual cues, repetition, and musicality so that different learning styles can connect with the movement. I also remind my students that it’s okay to mess up. The goal is to keep moving, have fun, and feel proud of the progress, not ust the perfection.”

What do you hope that students take away from your class besides dance skills?

Linda: “I hope my students remember to have fun in class. I know from experience how frustrating it can be when a step doesn’t click right away-but I always try to remind them, you’re literally learning a full choreo in under an hour! That’s no small thing. So give yourself grace, celebrate the wins (even if it’s just the first or last 8-count), and recognize the progress you are making. Dance is about growth, not perfection. So, enjoying the process is just as important as the moves themselves.”

Outside of dance, what are some other hobbies that you enjoy?

Linda: “Outside of dance, I love spending time with family and friends, and my doggo. I’m also a big fan of EDM shows—total bass head! Last year, I started paddle boarding, and I’m excited to keep getting better at it. Oh, and I’m definitely a big fan of long naps—there’s no day I won’t say yes to one.”

Are there any styles that you want to learn or incorporate more of in your class?

Linda: “I’m excited to keep exploring and incorporating all kinds of styles! Right now, I’m focusing on hip-hop and femme because they add such a fresh vibe. My goal is to keep learning and taking classes so I can grow as a dancer and bring even more fusion into my Latin choreography.”

What advice do you have for students who want to explore more Latin dance styles but don’t know where to start?

Linda: “First, be nice to yourself—always! Latin dance styles can have a lot of footwork and can feel overwhelming at first, but remember it’s all about patience and practice. Start with the basics, like salsa or bachata, and focus on feeling the rhythm before worrying about the steps. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, take your time, and most importantly, have fun with it. Dance is a journey, not a race!”

Where do you see Latin Fusion evolving in the studio in the next few years?

Linda: “I see Latin Fusion continuing to grow and evolve as a vibrant, inclusive style that brings together even more diverse influences. I imagine it becoming a space where dancers of all backgrounds feel welcome to explore and express themselves through a mix of traditional Latin rhythms and modern styles. Overall, I hope Latin Fusion at the studio keeps inspiring community, cultural pride, and a love for movement that connects us all.”

I hope you all enjoyed my interview with Linda. Make sure to check out her Latin Fusion class on Tuesdays at Elemental Studios at 5:15 pm-6:15 pm and don’t be afraid to say hi to her if you see her attending other classes at the studio! See you guys in the next staff interview.