Find us:
Facebook: KD Dance
Instagram: instagram.com/KDDance.Akl
Web: kddance.co.nz
KD Dance may be a newish studio in Auckland - but between David and Katie they have more than 20 years experience in dance.
We talked to them about their dance journey and what drives them to dance.
Welcome to the Salsa Tumbao team! 2025 looks to be a fantastic year with new faces and ideas thrown into the mix.
We're looking forward to your Improvers/Intermediate Rueda workshop on Saturday afternoon.
You're such a dynamic team when you're teaching - you draw people in and get them moving - where did that start?
Katie - I started my performance journey in the demanding world of synchronised swimming - that dedication has helped me earn an array of Latin Dance awards since I joined Latin Dance in Auckland in 2021.
I really enjoy the musicality, body movement and connection in dance. My aim is to continue learning and perfecting my dance craft and to share that with others.
David - I found my dance smarts in Chile - which is where I am from. I've been dancing for over 20 years and have been active in the Auckland dance scene for 9 of those.
My dance strengths are in Mambo, Bachata and Cuban Salsa, which I have taught at many dance schools in New Zealand.
I enjoy performance and choreography, and held the title of Semi-Pro Salsa Soloist Champion for New Zealand in 2023. I strongly believe that dance can unite a community
Our theme this year is Driven to Dance which means I have to ask - what is your dream car - and why?
Katie - Ironically I actually try to cycle everywhere so my dream car is probably an electric bike!
David - Definitely a Chevy Impala
Katie and David are passionate about all things Latin dance. United by dance, Katie and David have been dancing and teaching together for three years and are the proud directors of KD Dance.
What drives you to dance?
Katie - I love to move my body and really connect with myself, my partner and the music. I am highly motivated to keep learning and growing as a dancer and as a teacher.
David - To keep improving and learning.
They both enjoy sharing their love of Cuban salsa through weekly community classes and workshops.
KD Dance runs a weekly community class on Monday nights and focuses on Salsa Partnerwork and Shines on Tuesdays. Check out their Facebook page for more class options.
Tell us how you feel after an amazing evening of dance with great people.
Katie - Nothing beats the adrenaline of finishing an amazing choreography performance. It’s a feeling like no other and one I keep chasing.
For social dance, it’s coming out of a dance with amazing connection and feeling like you’re floating.
David - I don’t need anything else to be happy.
Katie and David strongly believe that dance can unite a community so you will find them supporting festivals, workshops and socials across New Zealand and collaborating with dancers from all backgrounds.
In five words - how do you convince someone to start dancing?
Katie - It’s six words - Get ready to change your life!
David - You will not regret it.
Katie and David run KD Dance
Find information about their classes here: www.kddance.co.nz/latindanceclasses
Find them on Facebook and Instagram
Or their Website is www.kddance.co.nz