Uko Udodong

My interest in salsa music began during my days in Washington, D.C., where I lived sandwiched between the Hispanic and the African American neighborhoods. When I moved to Indianapolis in the early nineties, the international dance parties, with Frantz Victor as the DJ, provided an exciting outlet for salsa and other jamming flavors. The dance party at Madame Walker Theatre was more Latin-focused. It was there that I learned that T and Jessica were teaching salsa at NIFS. I was already a member at NIFS. So, in October of 2003, I would hop into T's class right after my workout. I could manage merengue and bachata, but my salsa skills were quite lame. Yet my interest in the music remained strong.

On November 26 of 2003, I attended a party hosted by Yang and Erin on Prospect Street. Yang informed me then that he was offering salsa classes at Marvris. I started taking lessons last spring. Now my lady friends and acquaintances tell me that my lead is not as rough. And that gives me more confidence to continue to take matters to the dance floor. What I cherish the most from all of this is the opportunity to meet new and totally different set of friends and the opportunity to be part of an exciting experience. I'm already planni ng the next INtoSalsa summer fun fest for July/August. I hope you are planning to attend. For now, I'll see you on the dance floor.