Salsa LAon1 festivals and congresses

L.A. style is purely danced on 1, in a slot. It traces its evolution from the Salsa explosion of the 80s and 90s with Latin migrants and commercial growth of Salsa music in the west coast. It is strongly influenced by the Mambo, Swing and Argentine Tango styles of dancing. L.A. style emphasizes sensuousness, theatricality, aerobics, and showstyle. The two essential elements of this dance are the forward/backward basic as described above, and the cross-body lead. In this pattern, the leader steps forward on 1, steps to the right on 2-3 while turning 90 degrees counter-clockwise (facing to the left). The follower then steps forward on 5-6, and turns on 7-8, while the leader makes another 90 degrees counter-clockwise. After these 8 counts, the leader and follower have exchanged their positions. Most LA Style dancers are not particular on the quick-quick slow rhythm seen on NY Style or Latin American style.

Major LA Style pioneers are Albert Torres, Laura Canellias and Joe Cassini rightfully deserve much of the credit for the early development and growth of L.A. Style Salsa.[citation needed] Later, such dancers as Alex Da Silva, Edie Lewis, Joby Martinez, Thomas Montero, Rogelio Moreno, Josie Neglia, Liz Rojas,Tropical Gem,Maximo Rea, Francisco Vazquez and Janette Valenzuela are often credited with developing the L.A. style of Salsa Dancing as we know it today.

Source:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salsa_%28dance%29