Wendell Dunham

I was born and raised in Gary, Indiana in what some jokingly refer to as the 'armpit' of Chicago, Illinois. I moved to Indianapolis or 'Nap-Town' in 2001, September 11th to be exact.

One day a few years back when my boss didn't show for work, my Latino friend Cesar and I began comparing hip-hop moves. We were dressed in formal work clothes which to me was just a weird way of dancing hip-hop. What started out as simple fun led to co-workers gathering, music playing, heads 'a-boppin' and of course the two of us having our own dance-showdown!! My competition got 'shut-down' from the smooth hip-hop style I was throwin' his way, but came to an equal finish when he retaliated with the distinctive challenges of Latin dancing. That was a day of reckoning when I wondered "What is Salsa all about?"

Since then I've ventured on my own to gain a better understanding of this dance style. My pursuit of the Nap-Town Salsa scene led directly to Latin Night Thursdays at the Jazz Kitchen. At that time came early frustrations of learning the basic moves. From words of encouragement of the fabulous people there, I put up the good-fight and continued learning the Latin rhythms and dances. Soon after, I somehow began taking Salsa lessons at Red Brick Dance studio and later on with INtoSalsa; all while frequently visiting Salsa clubs. Many thanks, to all who contribute to the growth of this Nap-Town Salsa vibe.

Now I intentionally overdose on Salsa whenever I can and notice myself impatiently waiting until the next Salsa event. I truly admit that 'Not only am I a member of Salsa Addiction Anonymous (S.A.A), but I'm also a client!