Dancer of the Week: Ryan Ramirez dance Shark

In the world on hip-hop and break dance, local dance studio's in North County would not be as prominent today, if it wasn't for dance teachers like Ryan Ramirez.

The San Diego native, and Encinitas local has inspired young dancers through his forcefully danced & aggressively taught classes commonly taught at 429 Dance Studio, in Encinitas Ca.

As a result, more and more Encinitas dance studio's are filling up with aspiring student dancers, eager to collaborate with Ramirez. Teaching dancers of all ages, college & high school students, to mini boppers as young as four, Ryan has permanently replaced the meaning of what it means to be a traditional dance teacher.

The break dancer is also a member of one of San Diego's most established dance crews called "Uncomfortably Fresh". During his leisure time, the performer enjoys to organize dance fundraisers and events for low income San Diego dance studio's.

February 12, the 24 yr old will be conducting a dance competition at the Encinitas YMCA with entry fee of $5 to raise money for kids in the Encinitas dance community. We sat down with the performer to find out how dancing became a significant part of his life.

1) Ryan, how & when did you get into dance? I got into dance my junoir year in high school when I was 17 years old. I had a lot of dancers friends that did regular hip hop but it didnt catch my eye. Then I saw one of my fiends brother break dancing at a practice and i was hooked from then on.

2) What are your favorite style of dance do dance personally? In order are Break Dancing, Hip Hop, House, Salsa, Lyrical

3) You are a very experienced break dancer, a very
challenging form of dance? How long did it take you to learn?
It is very challenging. I've been dancing for 7 years now and Im still learning to this day. Theres so many moves out there to keep you busy.

4) How many hours a week do you spend dancing? It really depends on my scedule but im usually getting at least 6-8hrs a week.

5) What types of style music are your favorite to dance to?
Original Hip Hop, Funk, House, anything latin, and pretty much really anything. I love all types of music. A true dancer can dance to anything.

6) Do you practice dance in the mirror at home? Yes I do. I have closet mirrors so when im bored I start practicing.

7) Are there any particular dancers in the media you admire? JabbaWockees, Poreotics

8) Do you watch dance shows like "America's Best Dance Crew, Dancing
with the Stars, or Do you think you can Dance?"
I'll only watch these shows if my friends our on them.

9) What advice to you have for young dancers who hope to become "experienced"? To always stay focused and just have fun at what you do. Dance in a art form so dance your dance.

To learn more about the established break dancer visit his website at breakyoselfproductions.com.