Mariano De Simone grew up in a humble part of Naples, Italy, he was lucky enough to discover a passion for Cuban salsa in 2007 when persuaded to accompany a friend to class, since that day De Simone has devoted his life to the perusal of dance and teaching.
Since taking classes in 2007 in Cuban salsa, bachata and merengue (Academy de Cuba), he achieved a Diploma in Latin-American Dances, as well as studying cultural dance traditions, Latin leading techniques and license to teach.
Over the years he attended many masterclasses with some very famous dancers and teachers such as Maykel Fonts, dance group Dominican Power, Alberto Valdes, Seo Fernandez, and many others. His training also included ballet preparation with Manuela Carrino. His focus turned to Cuban salsa and Afro-Rumba with the master Maykel Fonts and perfected later with Maestro Giuseppe Sabatino.
In 2015 De Simone moved to Wales to start his Latin dance company dream “Havana People Salsa Wales” from scratch, and to spread the knowledge and style of Cuban salsa and bachata in the UK.
Today he is particularly known for his passion for technique and leading skills which make his classes well sort after. De Simone has committed himself to understanding and exhibiting the true culture and musical interpretation behind Cuban salsa, including Son, Rumba and Guaguanco, this extra layer to his dancing sets him apart from other dancers and teachers in the UK and Europe.