Chicago's 8th International Salsa Congress

February 10, 2009

Here are some of the highlights:

LIVE MUSIC:

- Thursday, 2/12 The Latin Jam Session with 3 regional bands: The Spanglish Band (Milwaukee), SalsaChicago Mambo All Stars and Papo Santiago y Orquesta Infraverde (both Chicago)
- Friday's Headliners, 2/13 - Direct from Colombia - La Sonora Carruseles, Valentine's Day. Saturday
- Saturday 2/14 Direct from the Bronx! Wayne Gorbea's Salsa Picante
- Sunday, 2/15 on Closing Night a spectacular "Tribute to the inimitable Ray Barretto" with the Luis Gonzales Puerto Rico All Stars featuring Adalberto Santiago
- Social Dance in the Grand Ballroom nightly until 3:00 a.m.

DANCE WORKSHOPS: Every day from 9:30- 4:00 pm - Learn Salsa, mambo, tricks and lifts, ladies styling, partner work, cha-cha-cha, rueda casino, Cuban rumba, bomba y plena, to Salsarobics, Tae Bo Mambo and Zumba to Afro-Latin music – over 60 workshops taught at all levels and featuring everything you ever wanted to know about Afro-Latin rhythms and dance under one roof.

DANCE SHOWCASE: The Emerging Artist afternoon show features rising star performers and professional performers. Each evening's Salsa Showcase on the main stage is a thrilling experience!

HEALTHY LIFESTYLES WORKSHOPS: Dance and fitness workshops, sports medicine, treatment for minor injuries, workshops on healthy diet, diabetes prevention and management. Free and open to the public.

VENDORS: Dance and workout apparel, shoes, instruction and music videos, CDs, artwork, accessories, health care, beauty, skin/scar care products.

For information on workshops, instructors, registration and tickets, visit www.chicagosalsacongress.com. Tickets are also available at Disco City, Lily's Record Shop, J & R Record Shop and Latin Rhythms Dance Studios.

The 8th Annual Chicago International Salsa Congress
Thursday, February 12 through Sunday, February 15
Westin O'Hare
6100 North River Road, Rosemont
www.chicagosalsacongress.com