STUDENT COMMENTS

TJ and I had wanted to perform a salsa and disco dance number during our wedding day. But we were far from being dancers, much less performers. TJ was totally apprehensive and against the idea. But as we proceeded with our couple salsa dancing classes with Gustavo, we were both surprised that we can dance well as a couple! Gustavo just brought out the dancers in us. Gustavo was very patient and his teaching style was very easy to learn and follow. We totally enjoyed learning from him. For anyone needing a choreographer for special events, or even just to bring out the dancer in you, we highly recommend Gustavo. He's awesome!!

Celina Tuano - July 2008

'Hello Gustavo, This morning I had a pinched nerve and turned on the television, expecting to do some tai chi to help loosen it up. I saw your program instead and I am so thankful! I have been going to Cuba for years and love to do as many dance classes as possible...I've not seen anything like it here, until I saw your show. I did the class and I've ordered your DVD already...didn't even read the description! Are you ever in Toronto? If so, I'd love to come to one of your classes. Thanks again, I'm feeling great!

Gina Lamarino - Toronto June 2008

"All of our guests (from age 6 to 95) at our 25th wedding anniversary raved about your Latin Funk Dancing! Everyone had a great time and they wanted more! Thank you Gustavo and Pamela!"

Clinton and Constance Wong - May 2008

The students really enjoyed your lively and fun lesson. They weren't intimated at all and it was right up to speed with what the want to learn about Latin dance. They had a great time and keep asking when you are coming back! Thanks again.

Maria Di Lauro - MacNeill Secondary School - April 2008

"The kindergarten through to Grade 7 students from Fromme Elementary had a great time learning latin funk dance moves from Gustavo Ferman. It was thrilling to see the students moving their hips, spinning, sliding, doing the "funky frog" move, learning the mambo and cha cha steps, and having the time of their lives. By the end of the workshop the students were physically exhausted. Thank you Gustavo for energizing our students in such a fun and exhilerating way! "

Elizabeth McFarlane/ Music Teacher
Fromme Elementary, North Vancouver - Feb 2008

I have been attending Latin Funk Level 1 classes weekly for 9 months now and enjoy them tremendously. At 57 and unfit, the class was very challenging for the first few months. I had never danced before and have a terrible sense of rhythm but perservered because Gustavo made it so much fun. I have been overweight most of my life and have recently lost 50 pounds. The dance class helps me keep the weight off and has improved my flexibility and stamina and mood! All the sweat and chagrine is worth it!

Terry Clark, Vancouver, B.C. Dec 2007

Hi Gustavo, I am what you might call middle-aged and have worked out all my life, either taking dance classes or aerobic classes. In the last few years I was finding that high impact aerobics was causing back spasms, so I began to work out at the gym with a combo of cardio equipment and weights. After a while, this became boring. About a year ago a friend encouraged me to try your class, This was exactly what I needed: I was working out and having fun, just the way I used to with high impact aerobics, but without the back pain. I look forward to your 2 classes every week and feel that I am more fit than I have been in the last few years. Your exercise program is suitable for anyone at any age. There is an elderly woman in one of your classes, and she may not move as fast or gracefully as she used to, but at least she is still moving and having fun. Staying in shape is a life-long committment and you just need to find the exercise that's right for you. Thank you so much!

Linda - Student Dec 2007

Hi Gustavo, I am in Chile now and having the time of my life and a very well deserved rest. I just wanted to send you a note to really congratulate you on the wonderful job you do with your classes. I say this after taking various Latin classes since I left, I took some in Toronto and here in Chile and really, your´s are the best ! Not that I didn´t know this before but I can now tell everyone how lucky we are to have you as an Instructor in Vancouver! You really are the best Gustavo! Cuidate y nos vemos en Marzo a mi regreso.

Fanny Astete - Student from Richmond Nov 2007

Latin Funk is a liberating experience. It is a sense of freedom and very stimulating for your mental health. It is so much fun and I have met many new friends through these classes. Gustavo is something else! His creativity and originality in mixing many different dance styles together is fantastic! His professional dance background and amazing teaching skills set him way apart from the rest of the instructors I have seen. His classes are directed to anyone, no matter race or age! He radiates his energy and encourages his students, making them feel like they really can learn to dance. Gustavo is funny and he genuinely cares for his students."

Maria - Richmond/Vancouver Student and Corazon Dancer - 2007

Hello, Gustavo! I took my friends to Roundhouse performance today, and it was fantastic! All of my friends were so impressed by your demo class & performance. They decided to take your class: ) I usually take your classes at Kitsilano Workout, but it was my first time to see your performance. That was amazing! I wish I could dance like you! Thanks again for the wonderful show! See you at Kitsilano workout!

Chie - Kitsilano Workout Student - 2007

I discovered Gustavo's classes by accident: I was expecting a couples class, only to find a room mostly of women dancing as if they were born doing so. My wife urged me to give it a try, and although I felt intimidated and skeptical, within minutes I was hooked by Gustavo's contagious enthusiasm. Gustavo is a wonderful instructor; each lesson is an intense combination of new ideas, technique, and practice, but is balanced by his terrific sense of humour and encouragement. I'm a relatively slow learner in dance (like a lot of guys, I played many sports as a kid but never took dance), and it's wonderful to be in a class that feels friendly and positive regardless of your ability; Gustavo always stresses how well you're doing, especially when he pushes your abilities, and never lets you get discouraged. I had tried a few Latin dance lessons before with various instructors, but could never get a feel for the movements; I had felt awkward and uncomfortable. Gustavo's lessons have taught me proper fundamentals for many dance styles, all while having a great time.

Joel - Student - March 2007

The music, the dance, the steps, the exercise - all of which puts a smile on my face. I appreciate your ability to teach with such flare and enthusiam each week! Thank-you for brightening my world. I just keep trying to be better.

Roma - Student - Jan 2007

Hi Gustavo, You probably don't remember me, but I took one of your classes a while ago and have actually missed it since I've been too busy. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that I hope your knee recovers quickly. It's obvious you love what you are doing, and it's unfortunate you have to be away from it. Not to mention all the joy your classes bring to others. If my enjoyment of the class is any indication, you are being missed by many people. Get well soon.

Sincerely, Endie Tompkins - May 2007

How can I thank you enough Gustavo for the wonderful experience of dancing in your classes! You are so amazing, so talented! You are a unique dancer, charismatic and inspiring! I feel so lucky I danced in your classes for a year. Each class was fun and challenging. I hope you will continue the wonderful things u are doing. I wish you success and that all your goals and dreams will come true! Hugs!

Zoe - Student who had to move away - Sept 2006

Gustavo, your passion shows through in every class! Thank-you so much for making Vancouver your home and giving me and all of your students the opportunity to enjoy your talent and be able to "dance from the heart" with you!

Julie - Richmond Student - June 2006

"Gustavo! WOW! A whole year of your Latin Funk Classes. It sure has been fun! Thank-you very much. Your classes are always well prepared- your instruction - TOP NOTCH! I am looking forward to next year!"

Mary Jane M. - Student - Vancouver BC

"I have had the privilege of attending Gustavo's Latin Funk classes and they have catalyzed one of the most rewarding growth experiences I can remember. Gustavo's passion for dance easily coaxes me through the most rigorous cardio workout. By interweaving dance technique and fitness with anatomy, breath work, balance, rhythm and music, I am reintroduced to myself. Gustavo IS grace. I can think of few times that I have been moved to write a testimonial"

Zannah S - Student- Vancouver, BC

"Latin Funk Is a natural High! The classes are just so much fun! Gustavo is cheerful in every class while always encouraging his students with his fun, high energy dancing!"

Kita M. - Student and Dancer Vancouver BC

"Latin moves set to the hypnotic Latin beat is the ultimate workout. The Latin music is happy and energizing, and Gustavo teaches us enough of a sampling of different dances that we can immediately transfer to the dance floor at the local Latin clubs. Muy Caliente!"

Linda Folster Schaffner - Latin Funk Class - West Vancouver, BC

"Latin Funk is fun, energetic and a great workout! I love to dance and thought this would be a great way to get exercise and do something that I loved at the same time. Gustavo has unbelievable energy and has great motivating power. He makes you believe that anyone can be a great dancer!"

Denise – Long time student – Vancouver, BC

"Gustavo's Latin Funk classes help revive my soul, free my spirit, while physically challenging my body." Dance is a sensation of freedom and joy that frees my imagination and restores balance to the body and mind. Thank you for restoring a missing link in my life."

Arlene Decaire B.Sc. R.K., A.C.E. Occupational Health Consultant
Long time student of Latin Funk - Vancouver, BC

"Gustavo found the dancer in me! After years of doing aerobic classes of many types I found Latin Funk, which is a great cardio workout! The class leaves me invigorated and happy. The music is terrific! Gustavo's teaching style is perfect! All served up with a cheeky grin! It is the best! Come and join us!"

Jan Mackey- Latin Funk student - West Vancouver, BC

"Gustavo is a great instructor who teaches everything from proper technique and correct positioning to sexy Latin moves. Great for couples or individuals. It's a fun class and a great workout, which gets you pumped to hit the Latin Clubs! I really enjoyed it and learned a lot of new moves while having fun!"

Anna Maria - Student – Vancouver, BC

"One of the most fast-paced and innovative classes I've ever taken! Not to mention fun! A great way to get in shape AND improve your dance skills! Awesome!"

Wendy – Long time student – Vancouver, BC

"I love your classes! They have helped me to stay in shape and motivated. Also, it’s nice to hear good, high energy Latin music!"

Sandra – Long time student – Vancouver, BC

"I love the energy that this dance represents! Latin Funk is a dance that would not only bring dance knowledge to Canada, but also educate different dancers about the possibility of communicating through dance."

Teresa – Calgary, Alberta

"This is the only class I take to get in shape, as I am tired of aerobics. I have lost almost 20 pounds!"

Catherine – Student - Vancouver, BC

"I am not one for doing aerobics classes, but after I tried Latin Funk it was the best class I ever enjoyed. Gustavo's enthusiasm, dancing abilities, and teaching skills made the class enjoyable, fun and an incredible work out."

Rubina – Vancouver, BC

"These classes are totally awesome, an excellent workout, bundles of fun, great instruction, fun choreography! I can’t say enough! Just from doing these classes, whenever I go dancing, I find myself doing the funky moves we learn in class and I have a blast!"

Felicia –Vancouver, BC

CLIENT COMMENTS

"Our Community Living Celebration aims to promote and support community inclusion and celebrate the many contibutions that citizens with developmental disabilities bring to our community. Gustavo and his dancers put on an energetic and fun performance and then afterwards everyone was able to learn the moves themselves. It didn't matter what anyone's age or ability was. Anyone that wanted to join in did so and the energy made the room come alive. It was great fun for everyone. We hope you can join us next year!"

"The children and youth from my program really enjoyed the dancing (as did the workers) For those who were brave enough they joined in and had a great time but even those who watched enjoyed it because of the exuberance of Gustavo and all of the dancers. The energy was great and it was an excellent way to end an awesome celebration."

"Gustavo and his dancers were the highlight of the night! Everyone really enjoyed them. All I can say is it added a bit of spice for later that evening! I hope that he could become a regular at this function. It was a true highlight for everyone."

Joanne Weidinger - Family Respite Program - Coquitlam, Oct 2008

"Gustavo was simply brilliant, a highlight of our BBQ in the Park for Brain Injury Awareness. He practically radiates enthusiasm and has an infectious passion for his art. His Latin-Funk performance got our diverse audience to their feet and involved instantly. On behalf of Howe Sound Rehabilitation Services Society, we would like to thank him for coming and really kicking our event into high gear. We eagerly look forward to working with him again. "

Tim Green - Projec/Communications Manager Howe Sound Rehab Services 2007

Hi Mr. Latin Funk Man! You rock! It was absolutely perfect having you come to our wedding, all my guests were sooo happy! Thanks very much for the entertainment, it was great! Take Care...

Catherine Von Heidenburg 2007

"Gustavo's workshops were great! The children at all the sites were very engaged. Gustavo was very enthusiastic and exciting with the kids. They loved it! We would love to have him back whenever possible. Thank you Gustavo!"

Sundeep Sahota--KIDSAFE Literacy Coordinator - July 2006

"We have recently had the pleasure of welcoming Gustavo Ferman to our school to teach Latin Funk Dance to our students ranging from 5-9 years old. He taught in groups of approximately 50 students from kindergarden, grade 1, grade 2 and grade 3 students. The students come from a variety of cultural backgrounds as well as several having special needs. Gustavo was enthusiastic and energetic. He connected well with all the childern both as a whole group and individually. He was able to involve all the students in a non-threatening and welcoming way. Gustavo taught in a way that allowed childern of all ability levels to participate. We highly recommend Gustavo for his amazing talent in teaching Latin Funk Dance to people of all ages!"

Jacquie Nielson - Charles Dickens Annex School - April 2006

"Hello Gustavo! Thank you again to you and your dance group for coming to Picnic in the Park! You certainly did an amazing job of attracting people in and gave everyone a fun, charged, and high-energy experience! On behalf of the Roundhouse, thank you for coming and making it possible for us to have you there."

Bryony Hollick Program Assistant - Special Events/ Community Cultural Development Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre - July 2006

Hi Gustavo, thank you for your wonderful performance on Thursday night! You and your dancers were really great! The performance was a great success! We would love to work with you more in the future. Thanks again for your professionalism and talent!

Cristin Bostrom - Entertainment Coordinator - Pacific Show Productions Agency Vancouver Trade and Convention Centre Private Function 2006

Gustavo, thank you SO MUCH for today! My students had a great time, and learned a lot! The best thing is - the boys danced too! You know Canadian boys don't like dancing much. It was a miracle! I know the dance class wants you to come back. I had so much fun too. Thank-you!

Anju Garg - Spanish Instructor - Port Moody, Heritage Woods Secondary School 2006

"I would like to sincerely thank you Gustavo, for the joy and laughter you brought to out camp by visiting us to teach dance! I was able to visit each of your sessions and saw what a great afternoon the kids and staff had. But the greatest dance moment of each week this summer was seeing the kids at our Friday Night Dances remembering what they had learned from you! Most importantly, their knowing some steps allowed them to dance with their new friends without fear of 'not knowing how to dance.' Your support of Camp Goodtimes is greatly appreciated as well as your recognition of the importance of supporting 275 childern in BC and the Yukon who are affected with cancer. Thank-you for your generosity, kindness, and making this summer a memorable one for these childern."

David MacKenzie - Canadian Cancer Society's Camp Good Times - Summer 2005

"Gustavo, your Latin Funk Dance® interactive performance was the most amazing thing I've ever seen - it was phenomenal! The way you got the crowd going, got them on the dance floor and dancing and having fun - the sheer energy of it was incredible! So, hats off to you - you and the Corazon Dancers were the highlight of the evening and we really appreciate your support and your participation in the event.”

Stephen of Salsa Vancouver–Richards on Richards-KidSafe Fundraiser 2005

"Gustavo, we all have great feedback about your stint with us at our Christmas Party. You were absolutely fantastic! I don't think I've seen our Christmas Party that riotous for the last 9 years that I've been with the company. Thank you so much for sharing your time with us.

One of your big fans, Cecilia - December X-mas Party 2005

"Thanks so much for coming to our school today. You were definitely the high light of our morning and were so wonderful with the kids. The parents and staff were raving about your energy and dancing. The PAC were already talking about hiring you to work with the kids next year ,AGAIN! Great job! "

Kristina - F.W. HOWAY School New Westminster BC - 2005

"The First Latin Show performed by the King of Latin Funk (Gustavo Ferman) was the exception that night and made the audience get excited and re-energized to join the dancing floor! The Corazon Dancers added the sexiness to the night and showed their beauty as well as their advanced dancing skills, Let's congratulate Gustavo and the Corazon Dancers for such a great performance."

Mesa Luna Dine & Dance – Vancouver, BC

"Every one of my guests grooved with your moves, and did they ever shake it that night with those hip hop movements. But most of all it was your personality that stood out with your moves. Everyone was just raving at how much fun and entertaining you are!"

Patty & Wes Fung - BC Studies UBC- Vancouver, BC

"Thank-you so much for your assistance with making our Costa Rican kick off promotion event a success. Our guests were very impressed with your performance. Your unique Latin Funk fusion dance group was high energy and added the excitement and flash that we required for our presentation. Gustavo, I highly recommend you and your company and look forward to working with you in the future."

Joanne Russell - Operations Manager - Cascadia Destination Management
Vancouver, BC

"Thank-you for a fun and educational Latin Funk Dance Fitness Workshop last Sunday here at Meadow parks Sports Centre in Whistler. The workshop was a tremendous success! We received great participant feedback... you made efforts to pay attention to each participant - everyone liked your great Latin energy, enthusiasm and easy to learn choreography. Speaking in Spanish was an extra special touch to adding the Latin atmosphere!"

Marie Anne Prevost – Resort Municipality of Whistler – Whistler, BC