Tumbao Latin Dance

Clara began her ballet studies at Ballet School Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic at the age of 4. She continued her studies at Ballet Clara Elena Ramirez, Ballet Concierto Dominicano and Ballet Studio Doris Infante. At age 19, Clara Ramos auditioned and was selected to join the Company Ballet Nacional Dominicano, directed by Monika Despradel. She performed in the following ballets: Gisselle, Swan Lake, Romeo & Juliet, The Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and the Nutcracker. In addition, she danced the female variation of the Ballets Paquita and The Corsair and performed as Principal Dancer in the ballets Don Quixote as Kitri and Coppélia as Swanilda. Clara started dancing Salsa ON 1 at La Academia de Chicha when she was 13 years old and returned to this studio years later to help with the classes. In 2014, she started dancing professionally at On2 Dance Studio with Rafael Tejeda as Director, and in 2016 she joined Yamulee Dance Company in New York City.

Kristian Santos Founder of Tumbao Latin Dance 

 Kristian began his journey into dance in March, 2012 when a friend convinced him to try salsa classes. At the time, he believed he would try it for just a few months. Now, 6 years later, he finds himself still learning, still growing, and eager to help others find their own rewarding paths through the amazing world of salsa.

Kristian started his journey taking salsa classes with Raices Latin Dance once per week, but after a month he was in the studio every day. He found himself quickly advancing through the school’s classes and eventually joining the student team, semi pro team and the pro team and performing in multiple salsa events. After leaving Raices, Kristian continued to take classes at various locations throughout Boston, Providence, Manhattan, Brooklyn and the Bronx. In addition, Kristian is the Director of Yamulee Project Boston and the Founder of Tumbao Latin Dance. 

Kristian focus is on helping his students see social dancing not just as a series of movements but as a kind of conversation between dance partners. By helping students understand the mechanics and signals of leading and following, he encourages them to find their own voice and style on the dance floor.