ABOUT US/
MEET THE DANCERS
The name Barrio Alegria originates from a song by Joaquin Sabina called Calle Melancolia, "I live in number 7, Melancholy st. Ive been meaning to move to Barrio Alegria for many years but everytime i try, the train has already left the station. So i sit at these steps to whistle my melody."
In this song he
expresses his longing to live in the neighborhood of happiness and his
striving to do so. This reflects in a way the reason behind our dance
company. In Barrio, our choreographers and dancers realize that getting on that mythological train to the neighborhood of happiness means to maintain the feeling we get when listening our favorite music.
Barrio Alegria was created in August of 2010 and finished its first choreography six months later.The first song we choreographed was Mambo Gallego by Tito Puente, and we performed it at The Abraham Lincoln Hotel in Reading in celebration of First Fridays in Reading. Ever since the first rehearsal at the Yocum Institute, we have focussed on looking for our dance to tell our story: we are a diverse group of dancers who love to dance and are in love with Latin music but also enjoy the challenges of technique and the order of our choreographies.
Daniel Egusquiza
Originally born in Peru, Daniel arrived in Pennsylvania dreaming to be able to dance salsa. He majored in Art in Northern Illinois University, but has extensively studied and practiced Latin Dance. He has given workshops and taught classes on various dances including Salsa, Merengue, and Bachata. Life as a dancer has given him the opportunity to meet a number of amazing people that have influenced his career as an instructor. He currently works at the Yocum Institute for Arts Education, as a Latin Dance Instructor; Goodnites Lounge, as the organizer for Latin Nights; and in several other projects in the Reading Area. He is also has volunteered and helped coordinate many Community events.
Cristina Osorio (Choreographer and dancer)
"I have always loved dancing since I was a young girl. Being on this dance team is a whole different experience for me and has truly made me a better dancer. I love my team and I feel like we will have a lot of success in the future."
