The Organizers

Sky Blue, Director

Sky blueSky Blue is the founder & director of Picante Latin Dance, director of the annual Byron Latin Fiesta, the Sydney International Bachata Festival and the Sydney Cuban Salsa Congress.

With more then 12 years experience as a dance teacher, choreographer, performer, costume designer & event organizer she brings her passion for the Latino world to life.

Sky trained as a dancer in Australia from the age of 8. She then travelled extensively to Cuba, Colombia, Brazil, Dominican Republic, America & Europe to study the authentic dance styles she works with. She has developed a unique teaching technique which focuses on body movement & the essence of the Latin rhythms. An innate desire to help people learn about the rich, inspiring culture of South America & a love of dance which drives her to keep teaching and performing year after year. Sky has also taught and performed at many large Festivals and Events as well as many corporate functions and private parties.

Apart from the world of dance Sky has also studied design and small business management. Her extensive design background lies in theatre, film and special events.

In Event Management Sky has been involved with the following major productions:

  • 2011 – 2010 EVENT DIRECTOR & FOUNDER, Sydney Cuban Salsa Congress
  • 2011 – 2008 EVENT DIRECTOR & PARTNER, Sydney International Bachata Festival
  • 2011 – 2006 EVENT DIRECTOR & FOUNDER, Byron Latin Fiesta
  • 2010 – 2008 ORGANISER & PARTNER, Noche de Fuego Nights
  • 2009 STAGE MANAGER, New Zealand Salsa Congress
  • 2007 STAGE MANAGER, Sydney Salsa Congress
  • 2006 ORGANISER & PROMOTER, Tour of Los Van Van (Direct from Cuba
  • 2006 – 2005 EVENT COORDINATOR, Australian National Salsa
  • 2005 EVENT COORDINATOR, Latin Dance Corroboree

It is with great pleasure that Sky brings you Byron Latin Fiesta each year.
“I can not wait to share an amazing event with you all. I hope it will lift your spirits and inspire your souls. Hope to see you there” – Sky X

Juan Ruiz, Director

Juan Ruiz is the director of Bachateros, Tropical Soul and also the director of The Experience Studio (XS).

XS is a brand new type of company focusing on improving the online experience of dancing and live entertainment events. Services ranging from Web Development, Information Architecture, User Experience, Search Engine Optimization, Online Marketing and most important Online Strategy has put XS as a top company for latin events in Australia and internationally.

Bachateros is one of the top Bachata brands in the world, being recognized as the pioneers of the Bachata Moderna movement and also one of the directors of the Sydney International Bachata Festival.

Tropical Soul is one of the newest Latin Dance Studios in Sydney. Since April 2011, Tropical Soul has already become one of the most popular Latin brands Sydney. Tropical Soul offers dance classes – all Latin styles, plus performances opportunities, shows, and more.