Today we’d like to introduce you to Lee Rios.
Hi Lee, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I originally moved to San Antonio to pursue my education. But just a few months in, I discovered a deep and unexpected passion for dance—a discovery that would completely change the course of my life.
In 1999, I began teaching private dance lessons out of my modest one-bedroom apartment. With no formal studio, my living room became my first classroom. What started as a humble side endeavor quickly blossomed. I soon found myself traveling to nearby cities, competing in dance competitions, and building a dedicated clientele.
As my reputation grew, so did the demand for my instruction. Eventually, I opened my first dance studio—a move that allowed me to fully step into my role as both an artist and an entrepreneur. From there, my journey took on a global dimension. I had the opportunity to teach and perform around the world, traveling to places like Africa, Paris, Belgium, England, Italy, France and Russia to name a few, sharing the joy of Latin dance with international communities.
Years of dedication culminated in the opening of a 25,000-square-foot dance studio and event center in Balcones Heights. This space became a vibrant hub for dancers of all levels, a place to connect, grow, and celebrate culture through movement.
Then came 2020. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I made the difficult decision to close the studio. It was a period of reflection and realignment—an opportunity to take stock of my life, values, and vision for the future.
By 2022, I returned to the dance scene, this time with a refreshed perspective. I opened a more intimate 2,000-square-foot studio that allowed me to better balance my greatest passions: dance, family, and community. Today, I focus on cultivating meaningful experiences while spending time with my wife and children.
One of the most rewarding parts of my journey has been the creation of The B.I.G. Salsa Fest, now in its 13th year. Hosted by RISE San Antonio, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the festival brings together international artists and top-tier talent from across Texas and the U.S. Over four days—Thursday through Sunday—we offer workshops, performances, and exhilarating social dancing that lasts into the early morning hours. It has become a cornerstone of our city’s dance community and a vital platform for cultural exchange and artistic expression.
More than just movement, dance is healing. Scientific research continues to affirm its therapeutic benefits for those living with PTSD, dementia, and Parkinson’s. I am deeply committed to expanding access to dance—not just as a form of art or entertainment, but as a powerful tool for emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
My mission moving forward is simple: to share the transformative power of dance with as many people as possible.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Being both a dancer and an entrepreneur has come with its fair share of challenges. There’s no handbook for running a dance studio—especially one that must operate as both a creative space and a business. Balancing the demands of a nightlife-centered profession with early morning private lessons can be exhausting. And when you add the responsibilities of being a present parent, the juggling act becomes even more intense.
The most difficult period, without question, was during the COVID-19 pandemic. The uncertainty around hosting large events or even holding in-person classes made every week a new kind of challenge. I was constantly revising safety protocols, trying to adapt, and scrambling to figure out how to cover rent without the lifeblood of the business—people dancing together in the same space.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
By day, I run a construction business; by night, I operate a dance studio and organize monthly dance events as well an annual event. It’s a unique balance, but one that reflects who I am—both a builder and a creator.
In the world of Latin dance, I’m widely recognized as one of the pioneers in San Antonio. Over the past 25+ years, I’ve collaborated with nearly every major studio in the state. Many consider me the “Father of Latin Dance” in this community. While I’m best known for salsa, I’ve also performed and taught bachata and kizomba, bringing a well-rounded passion to every stage I step on.
I’m also one of the founders and organizers of The B.I.G. Salsa Fest, a cornerstone event in our city’s dance culture that brings people together from across the globe.
Recently married, I can honestly say that my greatest source of pride is my family—my wife, Larissa and our beautiful, blended family of five children. I take immense joy in being present with them and creating meaningful time together.
What sets me apart isn’t just the steps I take on the dance floor or in business—it’s my heart. I lead with kindness, humility, and a genuine care for people. I want everyone to feel valued, to feel seen, and to know that they matter. That’s the legacy I hope to leave behind.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be this: make sure you’re truly passionate about what you’re pursuing.
Any new endeavor—whether it’s launching a business, starting a creative project, or building a community—will come with its share of setbacks. Challenges will arise that can knock the wind out of you. Disappointments will show up when you least expect them. And without a deep sense of purpose, it’s easy to lose your way.
But when you’re genuinely passionate about your vision, that passion becomes your fuel. It reminds you why you started and keeps you focused on what you’re building—something that didn’t exist before you imagined it. That’s exactly what kept me going.
I had a vision for the dance community in San Antonio—something bigger, more connected, more vibrant. That idea lived in my head and heart long before it became reality. And it was that vision that pushed me forward time and time again, even when the road got hard.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thebigsalsafest.com
- Instagram: @THEBIGSALSAFEST
- Facebook: lee4rios
