Campus Recreation’s Salsa Night brought a Latin feel to the Rayburn Student Center on Tuesday, Sept. 20.
Students and members of the Commerce community came out for a night of dancing and live music, and were able to learn some dance moves from professional salsa dancer Stan Pearson.
“They did a great job with learning the steps,” Pearson said. “I always tell people that the hardest part is just getting out there in the first place. After that it’s just a matter of trying really.”
Guests at the event, which is a part of Hispanic Heritage Month on campus, were greeted with light-up maracas and spirit pins upon entering the RSC Ballroom. Many students came to the event “dressed to impress” ,as the handouts for the event stated, and enjoyed the Latin atmosphere of the ballroom.
“I think it’s really good that students can come out tonight and learn how to salsa,” freshman Lina Munevar said. “I kind of knew how to dance before, but the lessons really helped. I like that the school is bringing out different cultures with events like these.”
The guests of the evening were entertained by a live band that performed a repertoire of Latin songs.
“[The band] is really exciting and very outgoing,” Junior Ana Sabio said. “They make you want to go out there and dance on the dance floor. I came out with some of my sorority sisters and a couple of friends and we had a lot of fun dancing. There’s a whole bunch of different types of music.”
Food was provided for the guests, including nachos with queso and salsa, and there was also a chili pepper eating contest on stage between five individuals. The evening came to a close near 10:00pm.