Student Spotlight:

Naomi Frankel

Salsa Student

Naomi Frankel was drawn to salsa for its universal rhythm and the joy of connecting through partner dance. What gave her the confidence to begin was the reputation of Movers and Shakers as a top-notch place to learn—a community backed by great feedback and solid instruction.

To build her skills, Naomi found structure and self-discipline to be key. She carved out time to revisit class recap videos and practiced solo, a habit that significantly accelerated her improvement. For her, the combination of freedom and structure in salsa sets it apart from other hobbies—there’s space to express yourself, but also a recognizable form that keeps the movement grounded and meaningful.

Learning at Movers and Shakers also had a deeper impact on Naomi’s personal growth. It helped her embrace the idea that she doesn’t need to be perfect to enjoy something—that stepping outside of her comfort zone can be both fulfilling and fun. If she could instantly improve one aspect of her dancing, it would be sharpening her ability to recognize cues from her partner and instantly recall the appropriate move—an area she’s excited to keep developing with time.

1. What inspired you to take your first salsa class at Movers and Shakers?

I loved the idea of being able to partner dance to music through a style known around the world. The excellent feedback I'd seen around MaS helped me feel confident this was the spot to learn.

2. What strategies have helped you the most in remembering salsa steps and improving your skills?

I found carving out time to watch the recap videos and practice, even alone, incredibly beneficial.

3. What’s one way salsa has surprised you compared to other activities or hobbies you’ve tried?

The freedom of expression present in salsa while also inherently keeping within boundaries of the dance style that ensure the movement is recognized make it unique.

4. Imagine you have the power to instantly improve one aspect of your salsa dancing. What would you choose to enhance and why?

It would be recognizing the cue from the Mover and quickly recalling what was the move to come.

5. In what ways has learning salsa at Movers and Shakers contributed to your personal growth?

I've shown myself it's okay to do things I'm not good at—it can still be fun!