Biography

Ahmed F. Hodelin, known as “El Bailarín”, arrived from Cuba to enrich Canadians with his Cuban culture. He graduated from the National School of Art in Havana where he specialized in dance (both contemporary and folkloric styles). Following this, he spent nine years dancing with the National Ballet Folkloric Company of Cuba, where he learned and later taught several styles of AfroCuban rhythms; such as, Contradanza, Danza, Danzon, Rumba, Santería, Mambo, Cha cha cha, Son, Mozambique, Pilón, Dengue, Congo, Abakua, Comparsa, Arara, Salsa Casino, Salsa Casino Rueda and more.

In addition to being a professional dancer, he studied at the conservatory of music ‘Felix Varela’ where he became a professional musician as a percussionist and drummer. He was invited to teach in Canada for Decidedly Jazz Danceworks (DJD), an internationally recognized Jazz company in Calgary, Alberta. He was then offered a full-time contract as a dancer, performer, instructor, and choreographer for DJD where he spent 7 years of consecutive training in Jazz, Tap and Swing.

Currently he is the Director of his own Cuban Dance Project called “Locos for Havana Dance Studio (formerly known as El Bailarin), where he is developing a fusion of both music and dance between Afro-Cuban, Jazz, Swing, Hip Hop, and various Latin rhythms. He has performed and shared the stage with several local musicians and performing artists in Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver, and with great Latin international artists such as ‘Oscar de Leon’ from Venezuela, ‘Fulanito’ from N.Y., and “Grupo Niche” from Colombia.

Currently, Ahmed F. Hodelin – “El bailarín” – is composing his own original music and arrangements.  His inspiration as a professional musician and composer originated from his experience as a professional dancer. Ahmed is the only professionally trained Cuban dancer, choreographer, musician and performer in Calgary, Alberta, providing him the ability to mix dance and music together on stage, creating a unique performance and concert atmosphere.

He is enthusiastic to work with individuals, couples, and groups of all levels to develop their ability to dance socially or professionally. He is available for private lessons, group training, choreography, and performances. Contact him today!