My Dance Journey: From Nervous Beginner to Passionate Teacher
- fiestalocacq
- Mar 23
- 4 min read
Updated: May 25
I never set out to become a dancer, let alone a dance instructor. If you had told me years ago that I would be running dance events, teaching classes, and helping others find joy on the dance floor, I probably would have laughed enthusiastically. But life has a funny way of leading us to unexpected places—and for me, that place was the dance floor.
The First Steps: A Dance Floor Awakening
My journey into dance didn’t start with an overwhelming passion; it began with a nudge from a work colleague and friend. Originally from South Australia, all this happened in the CBD of Adelaide. My friend saw an opportunity and, rather than letting me talk myself out of it, encouraged me to give dance a try. I was hesitant—I didn’t know the steps, I thought I had no natural rhythm, and the idea of dancing in front of others was daunting.
Despite my nerves, I took the plunge and attended my first social dance. It was both exhilarating and awkward—I stumbled, stepped on toes, and second-guessed every move. However, something about it felt right. I continued to show up and practice. Slowly but surely, the steps began to feel natural. More importantly, I started to feel confident. Eventually, I moved to Gladstone, QLD, and after a couple of little life moments, I was ready for something new.
Finding My Groove: Competitive Dance and the Joy of Social Dancing
As I progressed, my interest in dance deepened. My passion truly ignited in the Latin clubs of Adelaide in 2017, particularly at the Latino Grooves studio dance nights. I received formal dance instruction starting in 2018 after relocating. I immersed myself in Latin styles and eventually earned a bronze medal in American Latin Dancesport.
Competitive dancing taught me discipline, precision, and technique. But it was social dancing that truly captured my heart. There was something special about the connection, spontaneity, and the way dance could bring people together, regardless of skill level or background.
I also ventured into Swing dancing and fell in love with East Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, and Charleston. The energy and playfulness of these styles were infectious, complementing my Latin dance experience beautifully. Over time, I became proficient in various styles including salsa, bachata, cha cha cha, rumba, merengue, kizomba, samba, and jive. Additionally, I gained experience in foxtrot, waltz, old-time (sequence dancing), new vogue, quickstep, paso doble, and zouk. I realized that dance was not just about steps; it was about expression, connection, and fun.
The Transformation from Student to Instructor
As my confidence grew, so did my desire to share what I had learned. Friends and fellow dancers began asking for tips, and before I knew it, I was unofficially teaching. Seeing others experience their own dance breakthroughs was incredibly rewarding. I realized that teaching was just as fulfilling as dancing itself.
My wife and forever dance partner, Emma, played a huge role in this journey. Together, we noticed a gap in our community—there weren’t enough inclusive, welcoming dance events where people of all skill levels could come together to enjoy dancing. So, we decided to create our own.
Creating a Dance Community: Fiesta Loca Central Queensland
With a vision of fostering an inclusive, vibrant dance community, we launched Fiesta Loca Central Queensland. Our goal was simple: to make dance accessible, fun, and social. Whether it’s Latin, Swing, or Ballroom, we believe that anyone can dance—it just takes the right environment and a bit of encouragement.
Since then, we’ve hosted countless events. We introduced many beginners to the joy of dance and built a community thriving on laughter, connection, and music. One of our annual highlights is the Day of the Dead celebration, which brings people together in a colorful, energetic tribute to Latin culture and dance. Additionally, I spent several years running "River Nights," dance connection evenings in Rockhampton, and have been a regular participant at the Ridgeland’s Agricultural Show. I actively support and attend community dance events with my young family.
A Musical Heartbeat: A Lifetime of Rhythm
My musical journey has been equally important in shaping my love for dance. I spent over 20 years playing the bagpipes in a pipe band, competing in state drill competitions. Additionally, I spent over a decade as a bass guitarist in a nationally award-winning country music band. One of my earliest musical memories is chasing the pipe band down the main street during a Christmas parade at the age of five. This moment foreshadowed my lifelong connection to rhythm and movement.
This deep connection to music eventually led me to become bilingual in Spanish since Latin rhythms and culture became central to my life. Through dance, I not only discovered a passion but also found love—meeting my wife on the dance floor and starting a family together.
The Road Ahead: Expanding Horizons
In May 2024, I became an accredited Zumba instructor, expanding my teaching to include fitness-based dance. Looking back, I’m grateful for every step and misstep that led me here. Dance has given me confidence, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable experiences. It’s my mission to help others experience the same joy, whether they're complete beginners or seasoned dancers looking for a place to belong.
If you’ve ever thought about learning to dance but hesitated—just go for it. I understand the feeling of uncertainty, but I also know the incredible feeling that comes when you finally let go and dance.
Better late than never! Want to join the fun? Check out our upcoming classes and events at www.fiestaloca.com.au.
And trust me—if it isn’t fun, you’re doing it wrong! Come dance with us—the most fun you can have with your clothes on (without alcohol) awaits! 😉
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