Davina Gaddin-Xenophontos

When did you start dancing Salsa?

At the end of 2004

What inspired you to start dancing salsa ?

My late mother Molly was my inspiration, motivation, in short, my everything. The turning point in my life - she was diagnosed with terminal cancer in the year 2001.

Once a strong, vibrant, passionate woman...this disease rapidly and extremely painfully reduced her to a shadow of her former self. Wheelchair bound, bed ridden, desperately ill...We were devastated!

Throughout her illness, she never lost her grace nor zest for life. She reminded me that 'dreams' were not meant to be forgotten. They were 'born in our hearts to be followed!'

For her - A long life wasn't good enough, but a good life was long enough!

She passed on in March 2005 and I dedicate this studio to her and all others that have fallen to this unforgiving disease.

To Life!

What/who inspires you to keep dancing?

Well, to begin with - my husband and children. I get pushed out of the house after a long, busy day and am commanded 'go dance, you need it!'

The salsa spirit Team, my dear friends Emmanuel & Brenda- my other family!

Our wonderful students!

And last but certainly not least ~ The music! It's pure magic that bewitches and transports you to that place in your dreams...

What Salsa Style do you teach?

Cuban and LA Styles.

Love Rueda!

Is salsa your only/main profession? If not, details?

Nope. Salsa is my Sanity!

What was the funniest/most embarrassing salsa moment?

Crashing my head into someones nethers upon the ascent from a rather peculiar dip!!! VERY Embarrassing...

Do you have any words of wisdom for the salsa dancers out there?

Enjoy yourself! Keep smiling, keep listening and above all keep laughing and you'll find yourself getting lost in the moment and that magnificent music!!

What else would you like students to know about you?

I hate high heels! :-)