Jeff
Dancer | Choreographer | Instructor | Studio Owner | Multi-Time Salsa Champion
Born and raised in Corona, Queens, Jeffrey Taveras has built an impressive career as a professional dancer, choreographer, instructor, and entrepreneur in the Latin dance community.
Jeff began his professional dance journey with the renowned Santo Rico Dance Company, where he spent eight years developing his craft and becoming an integral part of the organization. His dedication, leadership, and artistic vision eventually led him to become the Director of Santo Rico Queens and later the prestigious Santo Rico Professional Team.
Throughout his career, Jeff has earned numerous championship titles, including Salsa Summit Large Team Champion, Salsa Summit Small Team Champion, Euroson Latino Small Team Champion, and Two-Time Professional Cha Cha Cha Champion.
His performance career has also given him the opportunity to share the stage with some of Latin music's most legendary artists, including Gilberto Santa Rosa, Oscar D'León, Los Adolescentes, El Gran Combo, Andy Montañez, and Fruko.
In 2016, Jeff embarked on a new chapter in his career by founding Huracán Dance Studio, bringing his passion for dance education, technical excellence, and artistic development to a growing community of dancers. His entrepreneurial vision continued with the acquisition of Latin Moves Dance Studio in Connecticut and the expansion of the Huracán brand to Toronto, Ontario.
Under his leadership, Huracán has grown into an international dance organization, with five dance teams across three locations, more than 60 team dancers, and over 400 students participating in its classes. Beyond operating his studios, Jeff continues to train dancers and create choreography for performers and teams throughout New York City.
Jeff's roots remain deeply connected to his hometown of Queens. A graduate of Newtown High School, he went on to attend Dominican College in Rockland County, where he continued his athletic career playing collegiate baseball. He also played high school and college baseball alongside fellow educator and dancer Edwin Tolentino.
Today, Jeff continues to dedicate himself to developing the next generation of dancers, combining his competitive experience, performance background, and commitment to education to help students reach their fullest potential.
For Jeff, dance is more than learning steps—it's about building technique, confidence, discipline, and a lasting connection to the music and culture.
Favorite Quote:
"If you want to be great, deliver the unexpected. If you want to be the best, deliver a miracle".
~Tim S. Grover, Relentless

