June 6-8, 2025

INTRODUCING

The 3rd Annual
Winnipeg Bachatafest

Hosted by Harold Rancano & Regan Hirose
and Dance World Co.

Join us for Winnipeg’s hottest dance festival of the year!

TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2025

Get ready for an exhilarating weekend at Winnipeg Bachatafest! This year we’re bringing in top artists from around the globe to give Winnipeg a weekend you won’t forget! This event showcases the talents of international dance and music artists, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere for enthusiasts and spectators alike. From exciting performances to engaging workshops, the festival immerses participants in the rich and passionate world of Latin dance. The Winnipeg Bachatafest promises an unforgettable experience, uniting a diverse community of music and dance lovers.

Tickets on Sale!

Tickets on Sale!

Winnipeg Bachatafest Tickets

Early Bird Schedule
1st Early bird ends February 28 (increases $15)
2nd Early bird ends April 18 (increases $20)

Performer Pass Qualifications
1. One performance and one competition
2. Two or more competitions

Child/Parent Passes
A parent pass can be purchased as an add-on on the next page after selecting your tickets. A parent pass can only be purchased alongside a child performer pass. Any purchases without a child performer pass will be cancelled and refunded.

Winnipeg Bachatafest T-Shirt Add-On
Get your official Winnipeg Bachatafest T-Shirt with your ticket purchase and pick up during check in. A t-shirt can be added to your purchase after selecting your pass. Only limited quantity available!

OUR MISSION

Winnipeg BachataFest is dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles, fostering social connections, boosting tourism, and inspiring the next generation. From dance competitions catering to both children and adults, workshops and vibrant dance showcases, our mission is to create an inclusive and dynamic experience for all, uniting communities through the universal language of Latin dance.

WINNIPEG’S HOTTEST DANCE FESTIVAL OF THE YEAR

The 3rd annual Winnipeg Bachatafest is a 3-day exhilarating celebration of dance and music. The event will showcase the talents of international dance and music artists worldwide, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere for enthusiasts and spectators alike. From electrifying performances to engaging workshops, the festival aims to immerse participants in the rich and passionate world of Latin Dance. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a newcomer to the dance floor, Winnipeg BachataFest is set to be an unforgettable experience that brings together a diverse community of individuals who share a love of music and dance.

2025 FEATURED ARTISTS

  • Ataca y La Alemana

    Dominican Republic/Florida

    Ataca y La Alemana are a renowned bachata dance duo known for their captivating performances and significant contributions to the bachata dance community. Jorge “Ataca” Burgos and Tanja “La Alemana” Kensinger have gained international fame for their unique style and choreography, which blends traditional bachata with modern elements. They are also the founders of Island Touch Dance Academy, where they teach and promote bachata worldwide

  • El Tiguere & Bianca

    Dominican Republic

    El Tiguere and Bianca are a dynamic bachata dance duo known for their unique style and energetic performances. El Tiguere Del Mambo, with Dominican and Puerto Rican roots, and Bianca Derival, a vibrant New York native, have joined forces to create the distinctive Bachata Popiwa style. This style blends their rich cultural heritage and dance expertise, redefining the bachata landscape.

    They are also associated with Island Touch Dance Academy, where they teach and promote bachata worldwide.

  • Edwin Rivera & Erika Saucillo Rivera

    Los Angeles

    Edwin Rivera and Erika Saucillo Rivera are influential figures in the Latin dance and music scene. Edwin Rivera, also known as Rivera Rhythm, has a career spanning over two decades as a dancer, DJ, and music producer. Born and raised in the Bronx, NY, of Puerto Rican descent, he has performed at major festivals worldwide and is known for his unique and authentic DJ sets.

    Erika Saucillo Rivera is Edwin’s wife and dance partner. Together, they have made significant contributions to the Latin dance community, including working with the iconic Latin label Fania Records for an instructional dance series.

  • Adriano & Samantha

    Montreal, Canada

    Samantha Scali and Adriano Ieropoli are a celebrated salsa dance duo based in Montreal, Canada. They are multi-time world salsa champions, known for their exceptional performances and choreography. Together, they founded Novaera Productions, a dance company that serves as a hub for salsa lovers of all levels.

    They have competed and performed globally, earning titles such as the Professional Salsa On2 division at the World Salsa Summit. Their dedication to the art of salsa has made them influential figures in the dance community.

  • J. Salez

    Los Angeles

    J Salez is a talented bachata artist known for his captivating music and performances. Based in California, he has gained popularity with hits like “Under the Influence”, “Maria Maria” and "Chill Bachata". J Salez, often referred to as “El Bachatero Mexicano de California,” blends traditional bachata with modern influences, creating a unique sound that resonates with fans worldwide.

  • Harold & Regan

    Cuba/Winnipeg, Canada

    Harold Rancano and Regan Hirose are a renowned Latin dance couple based in Winnipeg, Canada. They are best known for their energetic and acrobatic performances, particularly in bachata and salsa. They have achieved significant success both nationally and internationally, including being nine-time World Bachata Cabaret Champions.

    Harold and Regan direct Dance World Co., a dance school in Winnipeg, where they train and mentor dancers of all levels. They also coach and choreograph for teams worldwide. Their dedication to the art of dance has made them influential figures in the Latin dance community.

Tentative Schedule

**Schedule subject to change - Check back closer to festival for confirmed schedule.

Friday

9am - Registration table opens
10am - Competitors Call Time
11am - Competition Begins
9pm - Social Dancing Begins
10pm - Performance Showcase
11pm - J. Salez Concert
2am - After Party

Saturday

9am - Registration opens
10am - Workshops begin
4pm - Open floor
6pm - Call Time
7pm - Open Division Showcase Competition
7:30pm - Performance Showcase
9:30pm - Social Dancing Begins
1am - After Party

Sunday

10am - Check-in opens
12pm - Workshops begin
3pm - Mini showcase
4pm - Social dancing begins
5pm - Jack & Jill competition
6pm - Social dancing continues

COMPETITION

Do you have what it takes to be one of the next Winnipeg Bachatafest champions this year? Registration opens February 1st!

Competition includes:
- Divisions for Children Under 17
- Solo/Duo/Teams Divisions
- Open Showcase Division (cash prize)

2024 Recap Video

Thank you to all our sponsors who made last year’s Bachatafest possible!

  • Donna Sarna Physiotherapy

  • Popeye’s Winnipeg

  • Habanero Sombrero

  • Alberto Carmona (Su Amigo en Real Estate)

  • Far From Ordinary Clothing

  • Ted Motyka Dance Studio

  • GFranco Shoes

OFFICIAL VENUE

Nestled in the heart of Winnipeg, the historic Fort Garry Hotel stands as an iconic main venue for the upcoming Winnipeg Bachata Festival.

Join us at the historic Fort Garry Hotel, built in 1913, for a weekend of dance, music, and cultural celebration. This enchanting venue not only adds a magical touch to the festival but also aims to boost local tourism by attracting participants from around the world. Experience the unique blend of dance and historic elegance, and explore the vibrant city of Winnipeg for an immersive festival experience beyond the dance floor.

Please check back shortly for special hotel rates for the Bachatafest Weekend!

SPONSORSHIP, VENDORS & MEDIA

Please fill out the following form or email us at info@danceworldco.com if you are interested in learning more about sponsorship opportunities or in being a vendor at our 2025 event.