Open-Level Contemporary Dance Masterclass with Boca Tuya

Dance Victoria is hosting a FREE open-level masterclass in partnership with the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL), led by artists from Boca Tuya, a New York-based contemporary dance company making their Canadian debut in Victoria.

Step into a welcoming space where everyone can move, play, and experience the joy of dance—no experience required. This high-energy class is designed for all bodies and all levels, with a focus on rhythm, coordination, and cardio. Expect a fun, follow-along format that will get your heart pumping and your body moving.

Rooted in Boca Tuya’s commitment to community and connection, this class celebrates self-expression and the power of movement to bring people together. It’s a chance to move freely, build confidence, and engage with the vibrant physicality that defines the company’s work.

After the class, stick around for light snacks and an opportunity to mingle and connect with fellow participants.

Masterclass Details

Class Level:
Open to all levels (no dance experience needed)

Arrival Time:
Please arrive by 10:15 am for check-in

Location:
GVPL Central Branch Community Room
Enter through the main entrance and turn right past the front desk. Follow the ramp up toward the children’s area, continue past the women’s washroom, then take the ramp on your right back down. At the end of the hallway, turn left—the Community Room will be just ahead. If you need help finding the space, GVPL staff will be happy to assist.

What to Bring:
• Comfortable clothing you can move in
• Indoor runners or socks
• Water bottle (water stations are available onsite)

About the instructors

Omar Román de Jesús is a Puerto Rican choreographer and the Artistic Director of Boca Tuya, a New York-based cultural movement collaborative. His work has been presented internationally across stage and film, and he has created for over 20 companies and institutions including Ballet Hispánico, The Juilliard School, and Parsons Dance.

A recipient of the Princess Grace Award in Choreography and a Dance Magazine Harkness Promise Award, Omar has held residencies with leading organizations such as the Baryshnikov Arts Center, 92NY, and the Kennedy Center. His choreography blends powerful storytelling with dynamic physicality, rooted in themes of identity, community, and connection.

Omar is also a passionate educator, teaching masterclasses and workshops around the world for dancers of all levels and backgrounds.

Santiago Villarreal is a Mexican-born dancer and choreographer who began his training at age 16 and earned his BFA from Chapman University. Based in Los Angeles, he has worked across both concert and commercial dance, collaborating with artists and companies such as Ate9, NW Dance Project, Yin Yue, and Jacob Jonas.

His commercial credits include work with musicians like Kali Uchis—performing at Coachella and on international tours—as well as appearances in national campaigns. Santiago brings a dynamic, versatile approach to movement and continues to explore new styles while growing his work as both a performer and creator.

Dance Victoria presents the Canadian premiere of on April 10 + 11 at the Royal Theatre in a mixed program rooted in the cultural heartbeat of Puerto Rico. Under the visionary direction of Artistic Director and choreographer Omar Román de Jesús, the New York-based movement collective has taken the dance world by storm, establishing de Jesús as an important voice in American dance.

For tickets call the box office at 250-386-6121 or toll-free 1-888-717-6121⁠ or buy tickets online at

Important Note
Photos will be taken during the workshop. A photo release form will be available to sign. Consent to photos is NOT mandatory to participate. If you are under 18 years old, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver and photo release form.

Boca Tuya. Photo Jacob Jonas

Left: Omar Román de Jesús (photo by Stefano Altamura); Right: Santiago Villarreal (photo courtesy of the artist/company).

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Host or Publisher Dance Victoria Society