Regan 'El Tumbao' Christmas (Paradiso Academy, Cape Town, South Africa)

Regan "el Tumbao" Christmas - founder, director, choreographer

Durban born Regan found his musical ability at the age of 13 when he opted for cadet/marching band instead of sports. Within a year he was teaching trumpet and within two years, the drums, receiving provincial school colours at age 15. After school Regan played in a few rock bands while also developing his love of music as a DJ in Durban nightclubs.

Regan also trained in martial arts for five years, and his most memorable teaching post was junior karate classes to children affected by ADHD (Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder).

In 2003 after his move to Cape Town, Regan started teaching Ballroom/Latin dance styles for an international social dancing school. From 2005 he first learned Salsa locally in Cape Town, and then continued his training in Europe from 2006. On his return to South Africa in 2007, he opened his own Afro-Latin dance school called The Salsa Studio.

In 2015 husband-and-wife team Regan and Candice Christmas opened Paradiso Academy, Cape Town's only full-time studio and club created by dancers, for dancers. Paradiso Academy teaches Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, and the many derivatives of these umbrella styles.

Labelled a “genius” by his business coach and mentor for his “knowing of the body; the music; and empathy for his students” Regan displays a unique pedagogy that must be experienced. His passion for artistry and mastery of self through the arts keep him motivated to change the world for the better through music and dance.