By Tim Vandenack, KSL | Posted – Feb. 8, 2026 at 7:11 p.m.
The rhythm of salsa is surging through Utah as local dancers are not just keeping pace but excelling in national competitions. Recently, teams from Latin Dance Utah and Miel Latina participated in the Summit Championship in East Rutherford, New Jersey, bringing home numerous trophies and highlighting the growing passion for salsa among Utah's dance community.
A Heartfelt Connection to Salsa
Camila Johnson, a native of Colombia and now a resident of Sandy, Utah, epitomizes the connection many local dancers have with salsa. "My country breathes salsa. It's everything. I grew up with salsa. My parents raised me with salsa every day," she shares passionately. This deep cultural appreciation drives her to run the Latin Dance Utah Academy, where she shares this vibrant dance style with others.
The domestic growth of salsa is underscored by recent events and competitions where dancers from Utah stood shoulder to shoulder with those from traditionally stronger salsa hubs like New York and California. "There are people that just go dance for fun, then there are the people that like to perform and the people that like to see performances and also the people that like to compete," said David Princess, coach of Miel Latina.
Stellar Performance at the Summit Championship
In late January, the teams delivered impressive performances at the Summit Championship, a prestigious salsa competition. The results were a testament to their hard work and dedication: Latin Dance Utah achieved two first-place, two second-place, and three third-place finishes, while Miel Latina celebrated two first-place, three second-place, and two third-place finishes.
Despite a smaller community, Princess believes Utah's dancers are training intensively to improve their skills. "Right now, we're training as hard as these other states. Even if this community is small, we're really trying to grow," he said. "I think we're doing good, good work, and we're going to keep doing it."
The Essence of Salsa Dance
Salsa music, with its roots in the Caribbean islands of Cuba and Puerto Rico, has transcended borders, becoming a global sensation. Known for its quick, lively beats, both salsa music and dance are characterized by their energetic and infectious rhythms. "I love the energy of salsa," noted Erika Keele, a dancer for Miel Latina. "It's really fast-paced and has an energy that's infectious. It's so fun to dance as a group because you feel each other, and you synchronize."
Interestingly, the teams drawing interest are diverse. Keele, for instance, came from a background in ballroom dancing before embracing salsa and bachata. She aims to expand Miel Latina, which comprises dancers from various backgrounds, including those with roots from Peru and Mexico.
Building Community Through Dance
Both Johnson and Princess view their salsa endeavors as more than just competitive pursuits; they aim to create a wider community around dance. "A lot of the people on the team did not grow up with (salsa), but the fact that we get to share it with them and make them feel what we feel when we listen to salsa, it's amazing," Johnson said. Her academy acts as a bridge, uniting people from various walks of life through their shared love for salsa.
Looking forward, the plans for both Latin Dance Utah and Miel Latina include participating in more competitions and continuing to foster the growth of the salsa community in Utah. "Right now I'd say we're at a very good competitive level compared to other states that have been competing longer," Johnson reflected. "Imagine what we could do in the next two, three years if we continue this way."
Conclusion
The passion for salsa in Utah is alive and thriving, demonstrating how dance can not only preserve cultural roots but also bring together diverse communities. As these dedicated dancers continue to shine on national stages, they are sure to inspire more people to join the vibrant world of salsa.
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