Objective

To prepare youth for their future lives by instilling in them the value of health, education, and culture

Description

This engaging program helps students to connect the dots between health, education, and culture in order to be well-rounded productive citizens of the world. We have observed that some students are more motivated than others to be proactive in individual development – what we call the motivation-achievement gap. Throughout this program, we utilize a creative combination of original techniques to create an environment in which students imagine themselves in the future, think about how they will achieve their goals, and begin to understand how their health, education, and cultural awareness affect their lives.

Clients

• K-12

• Organizations for Youth with Disabilities

• Juvenile Centers

• Not-for-profit Organizations

Testimonials

"Julio has always been one of the main attractions when we have this day. Julio has a unique talent for connecting with the audience. The level of enthusiasm that he generates among the audience is amazing. He uses the time not just to teach salsa dancing, but also to teach about the importance of getting an education, appreciating other cultures, and learning other languages."

- Dr. Thom Thibeault, Foreign Language Day Committee Chairman, Southern Illinois University Carbondale

"Julio incorporates dance, culture, and life skills in his work. He wants his audience to be healthy, to learn about diversity and culture, and to be prepared for what lies ahead in life. Julio has a gift of being able to relate to all generations; he has worked with elementary students as well as geriatric patients with the same fine results."

- Jane F. Chard, Principal, Springfield Public School District 186

Photos

Videos

Julio engages high school students attending Foreign Language Day at Southern Illinois University Carbondale during "Connecting the Dots: Health, Education, and Culture."

Objective

To inspire employees to take the extra steps necessary to be successful

Description

Motivational and educational, this program encourages people to continuously seek opportunities for self- development in order to succeed both personally and professionally. We illustrate how essential life skills can be transferred between personal and professional roles. During the program, we demonstrate how our passion for salsa dancing has led to opportunities for developing critical professional skills, such as leading, timing, and teamwork. This presentation is unlike any motivational speech; participants will be engaged, revived, and prepared to take charge of their careers.

Clients

• Universities

• Businesses

• Not-for-profit Organizations

• Associations

• Private Clubs

Testimonials

"Integration of salsa as a metaphor for life was very inspiring and fun. Many of the adults who attended the team building workshop all felt that they could take some of your suggestions back to their work sites and even their homes. It would be to anyone’s advantage to be exposed to one of your workshops… they can be life changing."

- Patricia James Davis, Budget/Finance Chairperson, National Association of Medical Minority Educators, Inc.

"Your program, Salsa: A Metaphor for Life in the Workplace, was one of my favorite events I have put on at Sangamo Club and the most well-received by the Young Professional members and their guests. It was a great opportunity for members to get to know one another, while providing valuable training and culture awareness."

- Emily Becker, Director of Member Services, Sangamo Club

Photos

Videos

During employee training at the Recreation Center at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Julio motivates the staff to add value to themselves through professional development using "Salsa: A Metaphor for Life in the Workplace."

Objective

To expose people to Latin culture through instruction in Latin dance

Description

This fun program introduces participants to Latin culture through festive music and instruction in popular dance. Designed primarily to entertain, this program is great for people of all ages. Throughout each presentation, we teach the basic dance steps and techniques of three dances: salsa, bachata, and merengue. This program is perfect for building relationships during fundraisers, staff outings, and cultural celebrations. The shared experience results in a stronger sense of community among participants that is sure to be talked about and remembered for years to come.

Events

• Fundraisers

• Classrooms

• Private Parties

• Holiday Celebrations

Testimonials

"In a recent presentation from Julio Barrenzuela at the Department of Human Services Hispanic Heritage Celebration, we had the distinctive pleasure of watching him perform as he expressed his aim of servicing our community through dance. I highly recommend Mr. Barrenzuela’s performance as a vehicle to promote peace and cultural understanding among all people. "

- Jay Hidalgo, Supervisor, Illinois Department of Human Services

"It was one of the most attended workshops and received an overall quality rating of 5.0 on a 5.0 scale! Many participants described the workshop as 'very excellent,' 'wonderful and sensitive entertainment,' and 'fantastic and fun.'"

- Brendt Ramsey, Executive Director, Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities

Photos

Julio poses with the women of Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation during their Avatar-themed fundraiser

Students of Rochester High School watch as Julio and Amy demonstrate a dance move during the students' annual Salsa Night

Videos

During an avatar-themed fundraiser at the Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Julio and guests enjoy learning new moves in "Salsa With Julio: A Latin Experience."

Objective

To encourage people to maintain active bodies and minds through dance

Description

This unique program is ideal for organizations dedicated to the care of older adults and people with disabilities. Each presentation starts with an orientation that encourages staff members to participate. Then, both residents and staff travel through time on a musical journey that begins in the 1940s and ends in the present-day. We play familiar tunes that bring back memories and demonstrate popular dances that motivate participation. We believe everyone can dance, and this program is specially designed to cater to a range of abilities.

Clients

• Organizations for Adults with Disabilities

• Nursing Homes

• Assisted Living Facilities

• Retirement Communities

• Senior Centers

• Not-for-profit Organizations

Testimonials

"Increased physical ability, improved health, and self-confidence building are just a few of the benefits Julio's work brings to people with disabilities. I'd like to personally recommend Salsa 29 Productions for any activity that includes recreational activities for people with disabilities, seniors, and children."

- Jessica Schuyler, Assistive Technology Specialist and Special Events Coordinator, Illinois Assistive Technology Program

"He begins the performance by welcoming the audience and encouraging each resident to participate at a level with which they are comfortable. Even residents who are wheelchair-bound can still "dance" as Julio is so considerate of the persons needs."

- Cynthia Fischer, Activity Director, Springfield Supportive Living

Photos

Videos

Julio presents "The Evolution of Salsa: A Musical Journey" to nursing home residents throughout Illinois during National Nursing Home Appreciation Week.