Reviews of Araguacu Latin Dance Company (Dance School)

Nicolas Oswell

Have you ever looked at a dancer and thought *I want to dance like this*? This occurred to me a few times (I’m not referring to Geo & Kim, the owners/co-founders, as it is known worldwide that their dancing is on another level) and so far I’ve found a common denominator: Araguacu. I sought to understand what made these dancers stand out in terms of groove, smoothness & swag. After nearly 3 years at Araguacu as a student, I think I’ve figured out why. In every level, salsa or bachata, the instructors go over the fundamentals of each dance in great detail; from technique to history and musicality, in its purest form. Everything they teach is based on the basics, the fundamentals. The moves you will learn are an extension of the basics. Moves of this type ensure that you are always able to apply the proper technique & weight transfer, maintain your groove, and dance to the music. That’s why anyone will benefit from their beginner classes, let alone higher levels. It’s not to say that you will not learn more acrobatic, physically demanding moves – just try their Mambo Monday sessions! While they focus on the roots of both dances (salsa on 2) & Dominican/traditional bachata, the fundamentals taught in every class are geared towards fine tuning your abilities in salsa/bachata in such a way that no style is out of your reach (salsa on 1, power on 2 or urban/sensual bachata). SHINES hold a very important place at Araguacu – something rarely found elsewhere. They help you develop your coordination, balance, speed (all of which help you look better as a dancer) & they are fun! It’s important to note however that at Araguacu, shines are not just steps. It’s easy to teach steps but it takes a lot more to teach feeling, intention, purpose, culture. Important: In order for you to make the best out of your Araguacu experience, be open to a challenge and be prepared to at least practice the technique a little bit during your spare time so that you can move on to higher levels and really start enjoying and feeling the groove. Absolute beginners and/or very casual dancers are very much welcome, but it is a dance school after all (a place to learn), and it would be best if you put at least a little bit into it to fully enjoy and take advantage of the amazing resources at your disposal. The instructors are all certified and experienced - trust in their advice and you will have the necessary tools to tackle the challenges set for the next levels. If you’re looking to get inspired, supported, as well as pushed and challenged, it’s difficult to look past both Kim & Geo and their school’s energy.

Khaled Lashin

Araguacu is an amazing & very unique blend of cozy & professional at the same time.. Geo & Kim are beautiful people inside out & ohh when they are dancing ???? ???? ???? You can’t look elsewhere.. IMHO Their Bachata flow is definitely their Trademark ???? & Traditional (Dominican) Bachata musicality is just WOW ???????? & Mambo footwork is mind blowing ???? Don’t take my words for it, just try attending one Mambo or Bachata workshop for yourself & Apologies in advance for the unavoidable dance addiction ???????? Welcome to Araguacu dance family...

Kyle Bibby

Araguacu is an amazing dance company. The passion that Kim and Geo have for dance radiates onto their students. They go far beyond just teaching steps. They focus on technique, efficiency, musicality and feeling. I always leave their classes with invaluable knowledge that I refer to time and time again. Araguacu is definitely a company to check out if you want to grow as a dancer.

Kenechi “Kehnehchi” Chidolue

I’ve known the founders, Geo and Kim for about 5 years now and they are nothing but passionate about their craft. From hosting monthly socials to performing all over the world, this duo have created a fire in the Toronto latin dance scene that few can boast of! They offer classes 5 days a week and also run 3 performance teams ???? Talk about a hard working duo!

Alyssa Falcao

Kim and Geo are nothing but the best! I’ve been training with them for the last 2 & 1/2 years and and it’s been the best decision I’ve made for my dance journey! I have yet to experience the same quality of movement, feeling, and passion else where in the city. Not only have I improved both my salsa and bachata, but I’ve also gained a second family! Kim and Geo not only teach their students the best material, but they also care about their students and motivate them to be their best selves in & outside dance! If you are thinking about taking a class with them, you will definitely never want to leave!

Hey It’s Barbra - Joi

Geo and Kim and the Araguacu Dance Company are top notch. When your looking for a place to learn to dance or improve what you already know and go beyond learning steps to understanding music, listening for rhythms and getting you to groove to Latin music like you do when your on vacation or cleaning the house. This is the spot. The learning environment is welcoming and everyone is friendly. All different backgrounds of life and ages. They also bring forward dance and styles that are not typical to every other dance school in the city. So you will never get bored. The two teach with passion and have great chemistry as instructors. There is no pressure to get it right and be perfect. The biggest goal is to love to dance, feel the music and have fun. Also these two took it upon themselves and offered incredible, well put together free online courses almost every day of the week for the dance community during our covid-19 pandemic. Two thumbs up and thank you Geo and Kim for sharing your love of dance to the world. Looking forward to joining the classes again after all this is done : ) Take Care!

Olga Deinega

I am fascinated every time by the environment Kim and Geo create. They are very strong teachers who deliver the essence of the dance. Their style is unique and catchy. You will be having a great time while learning a lot from a single class. Come and join!

Nichola Chan

Kim and Geo are very dedicated to their students. They are both super talented and humble individuals. Classes are always high energy and positive. Be prepared to be challenged and grow! A great way to up your dancing level not just with moves, but understanding musicality, technicality, and movement!

Joe Samson

Araguacu is hands down the best dance school in Canada. Kim and Geo are amazing whether it comes to their knowledge, teaching, dance skills or pure entertainment. I've been with Araguacu for the past 2 years and have received several complents about how much my dance skills have improved. It's all thanks to Geo and Kim!

Xhina Kotobelli

One of the best dance schools in the city, period. I’m proud to call Araguacu my home of 3+ years - the most fun, entertaining, wholesome and supportive group of people working hard to improve as dancers and humans. If you’re looking to learn salsa/mambo and bachata properly (history, culture, musicality, foundations, feeling & flow) for the first time or level up your current skills, Araguacu is the right place for you. In my 10 years in the dance community, I have yet to meet anyone like Kim and Geo. They are truly elite dancers and instructors, blessing us with their top notch skills, unwavering passion, and excellent teaching methodology. The level of knowledge and improvement I’ve achieved while learning from them is incredible. Their love for the dance, music and their students shines through in all their classes and workshops. Try Araguacu now - you will not regret it!!

Maria B

Over a year ago I decided to join the Araguacu team because I wanted to be part of a community that valued the importance of growth, commitment and support for one another - and that’s exactly what this community is about. Geo & Kim will not only celebrate your growth but will also push you beyond your comfort zone for you to explore your potential. They are very committed to their craft and their knowledge will help you connect to the root of the dance and music origins.

Caeleigh Kinch

I've been taking classes and practicing on their performance team for almost 2 years now and it has been the best experience. Geo and Kim are so supportive and caring. They'll both push you to be better than you ever thought you could be. It feels like a family whether you're just taking classes or part of their performance teams. They're the best dance coaches I've had so far and I've loved every minute being part of the araguacu family.

Michela Gregory

Kim and Geo's passion is obvious from how they teach and encourage their students. They are committed to helping you grow. Having taken their classes for years, I can say Araguacu offers quality instruction from a dynamic duo!

Diana

Amazing!! This is the go to in Toronto if you want to learn Mambo/Salsa and Bachata. You will not only learn how to dance, you will learn the culture and history of these dances, giving more meaning your dancing. The environment is electric!! You will be extremely encouraged and pushed to your maximum potential. I've been here a few years and this school only gets better and better. They main coaches often travel to teach amongst and learn from the top dancers in the world, bringing back extensive knowledge with them. This school is truly a gem in the city. Prepare to sweat...and have fun while doing it!

Oni Bernard

Absolutely amazing and the staff is so kind and full of good energy!

Najiba Hussain

The instructors are super-friendly and have amazing energy! They do a fantastic job of teaching you the basics while integrating their unique spins - pun intended ;-) - throughout their lessons!

Melina Dinopoulos

Araguacu has a special place in my heart. As a student I was looking for something that would ignite that passion for dance once again. Kim and Geo are outstanding instructors and their energy and passion is simply amazing to feel and experience during class. I highly recommend this school. Classes are very organized and valuable. Energy in the studio is great and something I want to continue to experience.

Jeffrey Yu

Araguacu Latin Dance Company is by far the top best place to learn. They focus on the importance of basic foundation, and the fine details in dancing to be able to connect with the music, movements and partners. Teaching you to add essence and grove. The instructors Kim and Geo are absolutely amazing. The energy, time, and effort they put in towards their teaching is inspirational. And dont get me started with creativity they can make the most basic moves and patterns look absolutely complex. The class environment is very welcoming and friendly during the class trying to not smile and laugh would be the difficult part. The synergy coming from Kim and Geo creates such a positive fun vibes. One thing i really enjoy would be their inspiring speeches they give either before or after class is well worth listening too!

Kelvin Tobar

Top latin dance school in Toronto, specializing in Dominican/Modern Bachata and Mambo. Instructors are world class, and great people. Classes are fun, challenging, and always good vibes. Since I joined my Bachata skills have skyrocketed, gained fundamentals > steps and a part of a new family.

Mariam Fara

Araguacu is hands down the best dance company in all of Canada. To be given a chance to learn from Kim & Geo is a true blessing. Their own innate talent combined with instructional mastery is unparalleled. The Araguacu school is so accommodating to your level and needs as a dancer. They focus on the fundamentals and do not skim over the technical explanations. A solid foundation is provided, and students are continually given the tools to expand on their growth and creativity. They also encourage you to explore your own individuality. Classes with them are never, and I repeat--- NEVER boring. They bring life, energy, and Vibes to every, single class and you just want to come back for more. Moreover, you become a part of their family who are supportive and active participants in your dance journey. Their humbleness and sincerity is a motivating force that enables anyone from any age or background to learn to dance.