Ireland's Salsa Pioneer, Josh Tasia a.k.a. “Dr. Rumba”

By Edie, The Salsa FREAK

Irish International Salsa Congress!!
Click www.salsa.ie/salsacongress

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am very proud to introduce to you, Josh Tasia, a..k.a. Dr. Rubma, Ireland's Salsa Pioneer!!

Ireland is a land rich with green pastures, plentiful farmlands, and thriving metropolitan cities.  The traditional Irish shamrock leaf was used hundreds of years ago as a way for St. Patrick to easily explain the Holy Trinity, with the three leaves representing God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, all still being the same leaf (person).  The traditional green color represents new life; full of abundance and good health.  

The capital city of Dublin has one of Europe’s most happening nightlife cultures.  Whether it’s the traditional pubs with Irish music, or the hip trendy bar and club, you’ll find it in Dublin.  The name Dublin comes from Black Pool (Dubh Linn), which was on the site of the present Dublin Castle garden.  Like Hollywood, Dublin boasts some of the best playwrights and theatres in Europe.   Now, one of Dublin’s hottest crazes since Irish pubs, comes in the form of Caribbean dance and entertainment; Salsa dancing in Ireland, thanks to one man named Josh Tasia. 

In 1999-2000, Josh, aka “Dr. Rumba” came to Ireland with a dream to grow the virtually non-existent Salsa scene into the Mecca that it is today.  In 2003, Josh held the first ever Irish Salsa Congress, and it was a sell out.  This year, he expects the numbers to double. 

Josh is originally from Nigeria, Africa.  He is one of the most energetic people I’ve ever met.  An expert in African dance, Josh has more enthusiasm for Salsa than ten promoters put together.  His zest for Salsa and likewise, zest for life is contagious.  With beginner / intermediate classes numbering in the hundreds, he teaches and has hired numerous instructors to teach virtually seven days a week.  His strength is convincing nightclub owners that Salsa is "it", and to "just give him a month" to prove it.

Josh can't stop talking about Salsa, and how it has changed his life and the lives of countless others in Dublin.  He not only dances professionally, but teaches, promotes, and DJs most of his own events!   Because of Josh’s spirit and crazy enthusiasm, Salsa in Ireland is growing every day, and definitely here to stay.  He and his first-rate right-hand assistant, Kelly Anne, hold several Salsa nights each week, one of which is at a huge nightclub in the middle of the city called the Temple Bar Music Centre on Curve Street.  It has an enormous dance floor, with three big film screens. 

I had the opportunity of teaching some of his instructors how to teach.  What was so great about them was their eagerness to learn, and how quickly they picked up everything.  One thing Dublin doesn't have to worry about is the level of instruction, nor quality for that matter.  Josh himself is an excellent instructor, and is always bringing in high-caliber International instructors to raise the level of dancing and instruction throughout the country. 

Every year, Josh hosts a Valentine’s weekend Salsa holiday in Westport, which is south of Dublin.  The weather is beautiful and the views of the mountains and ocean are spectacular.  My early morning runs were so much more enjoyable in the country-like atmosphere of Westport, where one can see hundreds of white grazing sheep spotting the beautiful green hills and pastures.  Each farm is lined with the traditional stoned fences that Ireland is known for throughout the world. 

One thing we have to say about the Irish Salsa dancers, is that they are some of the nicest, most friendliest people you’ll ever meet.  Josh prides himself in that he likes to call his Irish Salsa Congress, “The Friendliest Congress in the World”.  I believe that the attitudes of the students are a reflection of the leadership.  Josh’s magnetic, enthusiastic nature is contagious, and reflected throughout every dancer in Dublin. There is no jealousy or attitudes, just pure learning and fun.  He believes his beginners are the most important group at his events. 

He understands that...

...as long as the beginners are nurtured and well taken care of, not only will you l have dedicated dancers for life, but the scene will continue to grow and prosper. 

Precious Words of Wisdom.