Baton Rouge has dance events for rock, rap, country, ’80s music and even underground alternative music. But where do you go to dance to Latin music?
Baton Rouge Latin Nights, a group that hosts monthly Latin nights and dance classes at Chelsea’s Live, aims to be the answer to that question.
It was created by local entrepreneur Josue Ordaz. Originally from Cuba, Ordaz wanted to bring the best Latin music DJs and offer salsa and bachata classes in Baton Rouge.
|
|
|
“(We wanted) to bring Baton Rouge all the Latin musical flavors and for the community to have a place to dance, enjoy a drink and have a great time,” adds Baton Rouge Latin Night’s dance instructor Yesenia Barton.
No dance experience is required to attend Baton Rouge Latin Dance Nights. All are welcome to learn the art of dances like salsa and bachata. Barton leads dance lessons during the first hour, 9-10 p.m.
Lessons are followed by an evening of dancing, drinking and music. DJs typically play salsa, bachata, merengue, reggaeton, popular hit songs and electronic dance music.
Every month is different, and the events occasionally have a timely theme, such as red, white and blue attire for Labor Day. Past performers have included DJ Ram, VDJ Travieso, VJD Tra, DJ Davila, DJ Crazy Ivan and DJ Ponce.
“(My favorite part of the event is) seeing we can bring something different to Baton Rouge that leads to a great night resulting in happy faces,” Barton says.
This isn’t an event where people hug the walls and watch from the sidelines.At Baton Rouge Latin Nights, attendees take over the dance floor and show off their moves.
It’s a judgment-free zone where people of all experience levels can celebrate Latin culture, move their bodies and enjoy music in an energetic and fun environment.
|
|
|
ATTEND A DANCE NIGHT
The admission fee for Baton Rouge Latin Nights is $10. You must be 18 or older to attend. Tickets can be purchased at the door. Find Baton Rouge Latin Nights on Instagram or Facebook
This article was originally published in the November 2022 issue of 225 magazine.