Saturday June 6th 2026
1:30-3:30pm
The Queer Afro Latin Dance Competition was created to open doors—to build a space where our community can be seen, celebrated, and empowered through dance.
Here, competition becomes connection. It becomes growth. It becomes a reflection of who we are and the freedom we are building together on and off the dance floor. Alongside this, we honor a high level of excellence—recognizing dancers who embody musicality, technique, presence, and a deep, authentic connection to the dance.
The 4th Annual Queer Afro Latin Dance Competition!
BREAKING STRUCTURES,
BUILDING FREEDOM
HOSTED BY
Grace Towers & Jahaira
03.
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Ready to compete?
follow these steps to register ⬇️
02.
In our quest for dance excellence and utmost integrity, we have put together this prestigious panel of judges:
About the Judges
Franklin Liranzo is a professional Latin dancer, coach, choreographer, instructor, judge, and photographer based in New York City. His dance trajectory has lead him to become an 8 times world champion, along with his partners: Lucia Jimenez and Mari Yogo. With Pro-Am competition Franklin’s students have received over 650 (combined) medals, making him one of the most successful instructors in the competition industry.
Franklin has traveled to numerous prestigious events around the world such as the World Salsa Summit (Miami), World Salsa Solo (Australia), Canada Salsa Congress, Calgary Salsa Congress, Houston Salsa Congress, Aventura Dance Cruise, Vietnam Salsa Festival and countless other festivals for the last 15 years.
Since Franklin’s competitive career started (2013) he has always placed in the top ranking positions, making him a world class dancer.
franklin liranzo
Lilly Rose Valore (she/her/hers) is a multifaceted artist, dancer, model, trans activist, filmmaker, and showgirl based in Boston, MA. As a full-time artist, Lilly Rose Valore performs extensively throughout the city, engaging in residencies, one-off shows, and numerous college appearances.
Throughout her career, Lilly has consistently demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the lives of marginalized groups. She frequently participates in LGBTQ+ awareness panels, teaches Vogue classes and history, and performs at LGBTQ fundraising events to improve the quality of life for queer individuals in Boston. By incorporating queer symbolism into her art, Lilly utilizes photography, film, and dance to share her story on social media platforms, thereby reaching a broader demographic.
Follow Lilly Rose Valore on all social media platforms and look out for her 5th video series “Looking For America” on all social media platforms. The POV of LRV in the USA.
lilly rose
Susana Arenas Pedroso is an internationally recognized Cuban Folkloric and popular (i.e. social) dancer. Born and raised in Havana, Cuba, Ms Pedroso began her career in dance at age twelve, studying at La Casa
de Cultura de Matanzas and at Conjunto Folklórico Nacional in Havana.
She danced professionally for seventeen years in Cuba with popular, folkloric and theatrical performing groups, including Tierra Virgen, Alafia Ire, Oche Olorun, Oriki, Clave y Guaguancó, Oba Wemilere, Rumberos
de Cuba, and Raíces Profundas.
Since her arrival in the United States in 1998, Ms Pedroso has performed and choreographed numerous pieces that have been exhibited throughout the United States, Mexico, Cuba and Hong Kong with companies such as Omo Ache, Omo Oddara, Ban Rarra, Ire Ile, Alayo Dance Company, Las Que Son Son and Obini Ashe.
A respected cultural bearer, Susana Arenas Pedroso teaches throughout the Bay Area and the country and is responsible for teaching thousands of students
susana arenas
Carlos Basquiat is a dancer with 25+ years of experience who has captivated audiences with his innovative and riveting performances. His choreography transcends traditional boundaries and explores the realms of imagination, symbolism, and cultural commentary. Carlos possesses a distinct style that seamlessly blends various genres including ballet, jazz, hip hop, salsa, and vogue to name a few. Carlos Basquiat has an impressive portfolio of exhibitions and collaborations to his name, including most recently Beyonce's renaissance world tour where he co-choreographed and danced. His work has garnered significant attention and praise from some of the most prestigious choreographers. Carlos is also committed to giving back to the community and has been involved in several initiatives, including teaching at multiple dance studios across the world. he is committed to providing the best for all dancers, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities. he believes that dance is a growth, and he's very passionate about sharing his passion with others.
Carlos Basquiat
this is your chance to shine!
Whether you're a seasoned competitor or taking your first steps into the competition scene, register for the Queer Afro Latin Dance Competition and be a trailblazer in the world of dance.
Watch the 2023 1st Place Winner Performance
Every dollar helps us keep this festival thriving and accessible.
Your donation supports queer and trans artists, inclusive programming, and the continued expansion of QALDF into a home for queer arts. Be part of the legacy.
Donations are tax-deductible through our fiscal sponsor, QCC: The Center for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Arts and Culture, which is a nonprofit organization based in the Bay Area. Thank you in advance for your invaluable support!
