It’s not all disrespect and ego battles on Cape Town’s dance floors. Believe it or not, there are some bright spots – and I’m not just talking about the disco lights.

Cape Town’s SBK (Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba) scene does have its moments, especially when you consider the venues. Let’s face it, we’ve got some pretty epic locations to shake what your mama gave you.  

Take, for instance, the SBK session at Sea Point promenade. Familiarly (and somewhat romantically) known as Sunkissed Salsa, this open-air dance spot is equal parts tourist attraction, local hangout, and casual stage for dancers to show off their moves. It’s right by the sea, and when I say right by the sea, I mean if you trip mid-spin you might just end up in the Atlantic.

And let’s not forget the view. Depending on where you’re standing (or spinning), you might catch a glimpse of Lion’s Head peeking over the apartment blocks like a nosy neighbour. On a mild summer’s day, it’s a dreamy place to sway and maybe even, do I dare say, TALK to other people.  

But hey, no venue’s perfect. My issue with this little slice of dance heaven? The slow Kizomba tracks that creep into the playlist. Look, I LOVE Kizomba, but; when it’s slow enough to rival a romantic tortoise first date and dancers start gyrating in ways that make onlookers clutch their pearls… well, maybe save that for somewhere less public? 

Or at least turn it down (oops I meant up) a notch when there are kids and titi’s enjoying their ice cream nearby. 

Thankfully, some DJs agree with me.

Moving on! Let’s talk about other uhh venues. The SBK scene has its share of lekka spots – restaurants, hotels, even clubs, each offering smallish dance floors and decent sound systems for our “not-quite-booming” community.  

This past festive season (is it evens over?), the Forever Dance Academy has been hosting parties at The Artezian and let me tell you, it’s been a good flow. Hot, sweaty, and full of joy – it’s like stepping back into 2018 when Baila Afrika parties had vibes, and still do. 

Although, quick side note: where are all the Bachata parties? Poor Bachata. The beautiful Dominican cousin in the SBK trio left out in the cold like an unwanted stranger (wink wink Gerhardus). Can someone please throw it a party already?  

Anyway, back to The Artezian. The vibe here is pure energy, thanks to the Angolan crew, backed by Coloured sisters from FDA who know how to Kizomba.(see what I did here).

They do serve up the best Kizomba tracks straight from Luanda with an excellent balance of music, slow to quick-quick-slow and ofcos mid-tempo.

And if you’re not in the mood to dance? You can always sit outside, sip on something cold and eavesdrop on the music while casually dodging small talk. (see what I did there you anti-social socialite)  

But here’s the thing: venues are great, sure, but at the end of the day, it’s the people who make it lekker. The hosts, the DJs, the dancers, they’re the ones who turn an okay night into something unforgettable. 

So, cheers to the ones who bring the heat, the flair (and sweat) and the beats that keep us coming back for more.  

Cape Town SBK, you’ve got a little magic in you. Forca mos.