Born in Colombia and raised in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, Charissa, 35, is a lively and passionate instructor with a deep love for Cuban Folklore music and dance. With over 18 years of experience in Latin dance, Charissa brings a unique blend of joy, connection, and playful energy to every class she teaches.

Charissa’s dance journey began at the age of 17 when she discovered salsa in the heart of Amsterdam at the “Guanipa Fun Factory” community center in Noord. Instantly captivated by the rhythms, she started learning LA style salsa (On1) and immersed herself in the vibrant local dance scene, frequently dancing the nights away at the now-closed Cantinero club in de Pijp. Her dedication to perfecting her craft led her to take multiple levels of classes at various dance schools across the city.

After four years of mastering LA style, Charissa transitioned to the sophisticated New York style salsa (On2), reigniting her passion and expanding her dance repertoire. As her skills grew, she sought out more challenges by attending international salsa festivals and performing with show teams.

Falling in Love with Cuban Dance

In 2014, Charissa’s love for dance took a new turn when she attended a Cuban Dance Congress in the Netherlands. Here, she discovered the rich traditions of Casino, Rumba, and other Cuban Folklore dances, sparking a new passion. To deepen her knowledge, she traveled to Breda to study under the renowned instructor Beamiris Rodriques, joining her student team and further honing her skills in Cuban Rumba.

Today, Charissa is a proud member of the International Cuban Dance Company (ICDC), where she continues to explore and celebrate the richness of Cuban dance. She now teaches Afro-Cuban dance classes in Amsterdam, sharing her expertise and enthusiasm with students who are eager to connect with this vibrant culture.

A Dream Come True

In 2024, Charissa experienced a full-circle moment when she traveled to Cuba with ICDC and danced alongside the legendary Conjunto Folklorico. It was a dream come true, solidifying her commitment to sharing the beauty and depth of Cuban dance with her students.

Cuban Rumba is for anyone who is passionate about dance, culture, and music and wants to connect with the rich traditions of Cuban Rumba. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, Charissa’s Cuban Rumba classes in Amsterdam are designed for those who want to dive deep into the rhythms and movements of this vibrant dance style. If you love Latin dances and are eager to explore something new, Cuban Rumba offers a playful and soulful experience that emphasizes connection, basics, and fun. It’s perfect for anyone looking to expand their dance repertoire and enjoy the energetic spirit of Cuban dance.

In Charissa’s Cuban Rumba classes, you’ll learn the foundational steps and techniques of Rumba Guaguancó and Rumba Yambú, two of the most expressive dance styles from Cuba. The class focuses on developing body awareness, enhancing your connection with the music, and improving your ability to interpret and express through dance. You’ll explore the unique elements of Rumba, such as the playful interactions between partners, the importance of musicality, and how to use these skills to enjoy the dance fully. Charissa emphasizes the basics while allowing room for individual creativity and expression, making it a comprehensive learning experience.

If you’re diving into Cuban Rumba, music is the heartbeat of your journey. Charissa, a passionate lover of Cuban Folklore, has curated a selection of her favorite Rumba tracks that will ignite your spirit and enhance your dance practice. Her top picks include timeless classics like “Ta’ Julian” and “Vale Todo” by Los Muñequitos de Matanzas, which capture the essence of Rumba Guaguancó. For those exploring the romantic side of Rumba Yambú, “Yo También Soñé” by Los Muñequitos de Matanzas is a must-listen.

Charissa believes that getting to know Rumba music is crucial for truly getting to the heart and soul of Cuban music Her classes often feature these powerful tracks to help dancers connect deeply with the rhythm, enhancing their technique and expression.

Want more recommendations? Join Charissa’s classes in Amsterdam, where you’ll experience these songs firsthand and discover even more Rumba treasures.