Pablo Salas

Professional Biography

ALL THE WAY from Santiago, Chile, Pablo has been settled in the sunny city of Nelson for the past 6 years. He is the director of Buena Vista Entertainment, where he shares his passion and knowledge for Afro-Latin and Caribbean dance styles with the community. Pablo is bringing a Rumba Columbia workshop and a Son Improvers workshop to Salsa Tumbao 2025.

Pablo began his dance journey at a young age (15yo), starting with Rock & roll, passing through Lambada, Cumbia, Merengue and Axe; then Bachata, Reggaeton and Salsa LA for a short time. Until he discovered his true love and passion: Cuban and African rhythms. In 2005, he got introduced to 'Rueda de Casino' thanks to the dance group 'Latido en Clave' (Universidad de Chile). In 2014, the opportunity of 'flying solo' presented itself whilst backpacking in NZ. Pablo suddenly found himself involved in the world of Latin Dance.

What drives you to dance?

"Definitely people's good energy and willingness to learn. It is my new drug. Apart from the fact that I love dancing, I just enjoy sharing my passion so much. If it was up to me, a class should last longer than 1hr."

After teaching Cuban Salsa in Paihia and Queenstown during his first visit to NZ, Pablo moved to Melbourne, where he continued to develop his dance skills and competency. He was part of several performance teams, dancing with Rakata, Acontra Casineros, Afro Latin Tribe and Alex de Cuba, amongst others, in various famous Australian festivals.

Since then, every trip around the South Island has been a great opportunity to connect with the local dance community, resulting in very good relationships with dance schools in Invercargill, Dunedin, Blenheim and Christchurch, where he has had the chance to promote Cuban culture through workshops and classes. One of his main goals is broadcasting about how vital it is to learn about the music and dance from Cuba and Africa. "We have to go back to the roots! As simple as that."