OFTEN referred to as the “Universal language of love”, Latin dance has, since the early 15th Century, provided for its practitioners a form of self-expression through sensual rhythm. Here in Guyana, our very own Latin Heat dance group has provided locals with the opportunity to indulge in this pastime. Run by Elvis Chris Solomon, Latin Heat provides members with classes in Salsa, Merengue, Tango and Waltz, techniques which are among the most popular forms in the Ballroom Dance arena.

“Dancing is a very fun pastime; it keeps you mentally and physically fit. When you’re on the dance floor, you think about nothing but the music and your steps; and that helps you to forget whatever you may be going through at the time,” Elvis said.
Looking at him dance, one can tell that this ballroom ‘pro’ was practically born with the talent. Light on his feet, and elegant in posture, Elvis leads his dance classes with the utmost professionalism and pride.

SINCE 15
This 28-year-old has been at it since he was 15, starting out under the guidance of a ‘family-friend’ who held his own professional classes. Elvis instantly fell in love with Latin dancing after watching the 1990 film, Lambada, and has not looked back since.
In 2008, after participating in several competitions and performances, Elvis began his own Latin Dance Classes at the Gourmet Pavilion. From there, his classes moved to the Princess Hotel, then to its current location at 55, Sandy Babb Street Kitty.
When he’s not training his 25-member group (both beginners and advanced), Elvis can be seen attending Latin Night at the Princess Hotel on Fridays with members of his team.
Otherwise, Latin Heat is popularly known to perform at private and other events. Yet, Elvis wishes that there were more public opportunities to showcase the dance skills of his group, but realises that apart from his own group, only two smaller groups exist that provide such classes.
He, therefore, recognises that in order to make this wish come to fruition, it is partially his responsibility to spread the word, which brought him to the point of his “army”.
“I am currently trying to gather an “army” of dancers, so that I can have people perform at shows, because I want other people, apart from myself, to showcase their talent,” Elvis said.
EIGHT-STRONG
So far, his “army” is eight-strong, and Elvis plans on hosting larger events when he feels that his team is fully ready. But for now, he’s content with hosting his classes, and helping persons enjoy themselves in a more private setting.
“We try to keep our dances as modern as possible, while fitting in the traditional forms of dance. It keeps the young audience interested,” he said.
For the older folks, the more traditional waltz and tango forms of dance are usually a hit, but Elvis says he does not discriminate. “Our classes are open to everyone. Once you have two feet, you can come and dance; we don’t turn away anyone,” he said.
Latin Heat classes are usually held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 18:30hrs to 20:00hrs.
Dancers usually graduate each level after two months of attendance. When not partaking in his passion for dance, Elvis manages two businesses in beverage distribution, and is currently pursuing a degree in Optometry.