Julio Cesar Soto Renteria, a dancer and choreographer from Mexico City, is working to expand reggaeton’s presence in LA’s professional dance community. He has established himself in the city’s dance scene through his efforts to integrate this style into professional studios and his commitment to sharing his culture while blending Latin rhythms with commercial dance.
Reggaeton first emerged in Puerto Rico during the late 1990s and is characterized by a mix of Jamaican dancehall beats with a Latin American twist, plus a dash of hip hop and electronic music. Its catchy tunes and distinctive rhythms have made it popular worldwide.
While reggaeton has gained global recognition, it has remained underrepresented in LA’s professional dance studios compared to other dance styles. Julio Cesar recognized a gap and stepped in, building a reputation as a choreographer while working to bring the genre further into the mainstream.
His efforts extend beyond helping to introduce a new style. He also wanted to create opportunities for others and give Latin dance more visibility in what’s generally considered a tough industry. Through his teaching work, he saw an opportunity to present Reggaeton as a legitimate commercial dance style.
Julio Cesar doesn’t just teach steps. He actively weaves Latin culture into mainstream choreography, making it accessible to a wider audience. His work has influenced how many people see and perform Reggaeton.
He blends authentic ethnic energy with the demands of professional dance, and his unique style comes alive in his extensive performance and choreography work. His dance credits include, among others, Amazon Music’s The Future is Ours (Times Square), where he danced for artists like Ryan Castro and Rich The Kid.
