2012 Capital Congress

Orlando Machuca

Orlando Machuca started as a young shy kid who loved to perform. He began with Eileen Torres in a youth group called LPG, performing locally where he was discovered by Dee (Pyson) to become a member of ClaveKazi directed by Shaka Brown. Orlando Performed with ClaveKazi for 3 years, developing as a social dancer and traveling to many Salsa congresses and Latin events. Orlando's dancing has taken him to Puerto Rico, New York, New Jersey, Texas, Philly, Canada, Miami, Los Angeles, San diego, Chicago, and Paris. Orlando has shared the stage with top notch legendary dancers such as Andy Cruz (Chicago's prince of Salsa), Stracy Diaz (world renowned dancer and phenomenal dancer), Julissa Cruz (director of Pura Vintage) and Candy Mena (styling goddess).

Born and raised in Arlington VA, Orlando is proud of his Salvadorian descent. Orlando is recognized as one of the best instructors in the DC area, and is popular for his sense of humor and upbeat personality which attracts all ranges of dancers. Orlando is a fixture of the DC Salsa community, teaching regularly at both The Salsa Room and Café Citron, as well as being one of the first instructors to start gay salsa in the area at Cobalt on Mondays, and Fuego on Fridays. Orlando also teaches at Northern VA Community College, George Mason University, and most recently John Hopkins University. In 2009 Orlando, along with co-director Hugo Mussenden introduced the HD Dance Company to the world, and they have been keeping the party going ever since! These two are two of the best leads and followers in the area bringing fire to any floor!