Discover Our Story
Meet the team
The Vision Behind Acereko – Maestro Ronald Rios.
With a dance career spanning over 21 years, Ronald Rios has mastered Salsa, Hip-Hop, Jazz, and Latin Jazz. After six years of intensive study at the top Salsa academies in New York City, Ronald performed alongside some of the industry’s most renowned instructors. His mission is to bring the vibrant and energetic styles of New York to the DMV area, while helping each student grow into their own unique dancer.
Why Acereko Is Different
At Acereko Dance Company, we don’t just teach dance – we help you grow as an individual dancer. Our classes focus on multiple styles of Salsa, groove, and body movement, designed to help you develop your own artistic expression. Whether you’re looking to improve your technique, create choreography, or build confidence on stage, we provide the guidance and training you need to evolve as both a dancer and an artist.
Ronald Rios
Director
Edwin Castellon
Co-Director
Edwin Castellon, a rising star in the salsa world, is known for his incredible talent and dedication to the art of dance. Despite his young age, Edwin quickly mastered Salsa at an exceptionally high level, becoming one of the top dancers in the DMV in just a few short years. His speed and energy, particularly in mambo and Afro-Cuban shines, are unmatched, making him a standout performer and instructor. At Acereko Dance Company, Edwin assists in teaching classes, bringing his passion, expertise, and dynamic style to help students excel.
Partnerwork & connection
Four unique styles of salsa partner work
At Acereko Dance Company, partner work is more than just learning how to dance with someone else – it’s about building a true connection. Our classes focus on developing your ability to communicate through movement, improving both your technical skills and the chemistry with your partner. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced dancer, we’ll help you perfect the art of leading, following, and creating synergy on the dance floor
Classic mambo
Dive into the roots of Salsa with the elegant and timeless style of Classic Mambo. This style emphasizes clear leads, smooth turns, and intricate footwork, all while staying in sync with your partner
New school mambo
Experience the evolution of mambo with contemporary techniques and flair. New School Mambo adds modern elements to the traditional style, incorporating sharper movements, faster spins, and dynamic partner interactions
Paseala
Master the art of fluidity and grace in your partner work. Paseala focuses on smooth transitions, incorporating stylish turns and flowing movements that create a seamless connection between you and your partner
Alardes, Sombreros & Ganchos
Bring flair and excitement to the dance floor with these intricate and showy partner techniques. Known for their dramatic style, Alardes (or show-offs), Sombreros (hat-like turns), and Ganchos (leg hooks) are perfect for performances and social dancing alike
Our dance styles
Learn different dance styles in salsa
At Acereko, we pride ourselves on teaching a wide range of salsa styles, designed to help dancers explore different rhythms, techniques, and artistic expression. Whether you’re interested in building a strong foundation or adding new elements to your dance repertoire, we have something for everyone
Afro-Fusion
A deep dive into Afro-Cuban traditions that form the backbone of salsa. Learn the rich cultural history and powerful movements behind Rumba, Guaguancó, and more
Pachanga
This playful and rhythmic style will get your feet moving with syncopated footwork and a joyful bounce. Pachanga adds a unique, fun flavor to any dancer’s style
Cha-cha
A classic style in Latin dance, Cha-cha helps dancers develop precision and timing. The syncopated rhythm will challenge your footwork while giving your dancing a sophisticated edge
Mambo Moderno
A fusion of traditional mambo and contemporary dance movements, Mambo Moderno gives dancers the flexibility to incorporate their own style while maintaining the integrity of mambo
Body Movement & Isolations
One of the key components to becoming a well-rounded dancer is mastering body movements. Our classes focus on isolating different parts of the body, improving control, fluidity, and expression in every step you take
Class Schedule
Monday
| 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Beginner classic mambo on2 – 5 week session (Timing, footwork, groove, and partnerwork) |
| 8:30 PM – 11:00 PM | Team Practice |
Tuesday
| 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Mambo Afro Fusion |
| 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Team Practice |
Wednesday
| 7:30PM – 8:30 PM | Introduction to Mambo On2 For Beginners |
| 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM | Beginner/ Intermediate shine with Beg intermediate Turn Patterns |
| 9:30 PM – 11:00 PM | Teams Practice |
Thursday
| 7:30PM – 8:30PM | Vanessa y Su Cadencia Pure Lady Styling & Spinning Technique |
| 8:30PM – 9:30PM | Vanessa y Su Cadencia & Edwin y Su Rumba plus intermediate turn patterns |
| 9:30 PM – 11:00 PM | Teams Practice |
Prices
| 1 class | $15 | Click Link here |
| 5 classes | $60 | Click Link here |
| Monthly (All classes inclduing 16+ classes) | $150 | Click Link here |
Join us today
Discover your passion for dance with Acereko Dance Company, located in Bethesda, MD. Our studio welcomes students from across the DMV area, offering professional salsa, mambo, and Afro-Cuban dance lessons. Whether you’re in Maryland, DC, Virginia, or any part of the world, our expert instructors are here to help you shine on the dance floor.