Kiko – Francisco Ortega: Dancer, Choreographer, and Visionary of the Bachata Scene
Kiko – Francisco Ortega is much more than just a dancer. He is an artist, educator, and visionary who has been shaping the European Latin dance scene for over a decade. Together with his long-time partner Christina Schirjaev, he has not only established a dance studio in Basel but also created a teaching concept that inspires people worldwide. As an official Dance Travels Partner, Kiko brings his expertise to international dance trips – and passes on his knowledge to the next generation.
From Spain to Basel – The Path to Dance Icon
Kiko's career began in Spain, where his passion for music and dance became evident early on. Drawn by the energy of Latin American rhythms, he immersed himself deeply in the world of Bachata and Salsa. What started as social dancing in local bars quickly developed into a professional career. His natural approach to music, combined with a clear understanding of movement, soon made him a sought-after dancer.
In 2013, he met Christina Schirjaev – a connection that harmonized perfectly not only in dance but also conceptually. Together, they founded KC Dance Projects – a project that not only offered shows and workshops but also focused on a new understanding of partner work.
A special milestone was the co-organization of the first official Bachata competition in Germany. This took place as part of an international festival. Kiko developed the educational guidelines for fair assessment and set new standards for technical precision in social dance.
Basel as a new home – A center for quality
In 2017, Kiko and Christina moved to the Switzerland. In Basel, they founded the KC Dance Studio, which quickly became a hub for everyone wanting to learn Bachata and Salsa at a high level. Their ambition was clear from the beginning: small groups, personal support, and respectful interaction on equal terms.
The studio follows a philosophy that sets it apart from the mainstream. It's not just about steps or choreographies – but about connection, musicality, and individual development. Today, their style is considered one of the most thought-out teaching approaches in Europe.
Kiko's teaching philosophy - Technique meets emotion
Kiko – Francisco Ortega stands for structured teaching that unites heart and mind. His lessons follow a clear structure. Each session conveys not only technique but also expression, posture, and musicality. The work in the partner connection is particularly important to him – for Kiko, dance is communication, not just side by side.
A central building block is precision. Movements should not only look beautiful but also be biomechanically sensible and sustainable. This allows dancers to develop their style in the long term – without overexerting themselves or risking injuries.
Kiko manages to support dancers individually – from absolute beginners to stage dancers. He recognizes potential and provides targeted feedback that motivates and advances. His classes are characterized by clear language, a humorous atmosphere, and genuine commitment.
Kiko as an official Dance Travels partner
The partnership with Dance Travels is more than just a project for Kiko – it is an extension of his vision. As the main teacher on dance trips, he designs retreats where quality, community, and personal growth are at the center. His workshops are didactically clearly structured and offer real learning successes – even in just a few days.
Participants benefit from a special teaching approach. Kiko and Christina personally lead each trip. All Dance Travels trainers undergo internal training to ensure high standards. Kiko stands for quality, and this is felt in every encounter on and off the dance floor.
KC Dance Studio Basel - Home of modern partner dance
At the KC Dance Studio at Spalentorweg 11 in Basel, Kiko's philosophy finds its firm place. The studio offers Bachata and Salsa courses for various levels – from beginner courses to technique intensives and show training. Particularly popular are the intensive days and themed workshops, which dive deep into individual aspects – such as musicality, frame, or body language.
The combination of personal instruction, technical depth, and a family atmosphere makes the studio unique. Many students travel from other regions to learn from Kiko and Christina. The studio is not just a place for dance – but also for encounters, exchange, and inspiration.
Why Kiko – Francisco Ortega inspires dancers
Kiko is not just a dancer – he is a creator. He has sustainably shaped the European Bachata landscape. His teaching combines professional depth with personal warmth. He motivates, challenges, and provides space for development.
His work at Dance Travels brings people together from all over Europe. They travel not just to dance – but to connect with themselves and others. This quality has become rare. And that is exactly why Kiko – Francisco Ortega remains a central figure in the dance world.
Conclusion: A role model on the dance floor and beyond
Kiko is a teacher who inspires. An artist who moves. And a partner who takes responsibility. Whether in Basel at the KC Dance Studio or on a Dance Travels trip – those who dance with Kiko experience more than just steps. They experience connection, development, and a new awareness of dance as a language.
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