Sonja Kuhnau

I have been enamored with Latin dancing long before I took my first lesson. I'm not sure when my interest began, but for the past several years I've always wanted to try it. Dancing is a not new activity for me; I grew up taking tap, jazz and ballet lessons. Much more of my life was consumed with music – from childhood until the present I have been studying and performing classical music. For me, dancing is an extension of being a musician; it is ultimately an expression of the joy I find in music of all types.

My first venture into a salsa club was in Madrid, Spain, where I lived for a semester in college. I thought maybe since I had a dance background I might be able to pick up a step or two. Once I arrived, I realized I was completely unprepared for the scene. I was blown away by the dancers' dizzying turns and spectacular dips, and was especially amazed that all this could be done unrehearsed. A little intimidated, I decided to hold off on salsa until I got back to the states. I tried to take a lesson or two once I was back, but nothing really worked out.

I moved to Indianapolis last year from Minnesota, and when I heard some friends mention salsa lessons at the Red Room, I eagerly accepted. Little did I know, that first lesson with Yang and Erin would alter my life. After watching them dance, I was instantly hooked and starting coming every Wednesday. I don't know what it is about salsa that grabbed me; I think just that it is an opportunity to express a passion for music, rhythm and life. Since then, salsa has occupied a space in my life I can't imagine living without. In some senses, I feel like I'm living a dream, because I've gotten the possibility to explore something I had never tried but always wanted to do. And it's even more fun and fulfilling than I thought!

There are so many people I'd like to thank for making this a possibility. First of all, thanks to Yang and Erin for being amazing teachers and supporters of salsa in our community! It is always an inspiration to watch you dance. Thank you especially to all the men I've danced with over the past 6 months; you have all helped me grow immensely! And most of all, thanks to everyone in the "salsa community", who have been so friendly, supportive and passionate. I’m looking forward to much more dancing in the future!