Fabio has always had a connection with dancing. His parents loved to dance, and thanks to them, he learned the first steps. When he was 21, a teacher at his school asked him to help with new students, and soon after, he began assisting in other places as well. By the age of 23, dancing had become his profession.

In 2010, he moved from Setubal to the Algarve. First to Alvor, where he rented space by the hour to give dance lessons. It took some time for things to grow, but he gradually gained more students, and in 2014, he found a space to rent in Portimão.

Growing space

At first, it was only the upper floor, and later this space wasn’t enough, so now Fabio uses both floors of the building, and sometimes all four dancing rooms are busy with lessons. Dancing is for everyone, and Fabio makes sure anyone interested in learning to dance has the opportunity.

Children with disabilities used to attend regular classes, but during the pandemic, they needed extra protection, and later, their classes didn’t continue in school. Instead, Fabio visits them weekly at their association, so they can continue improving their skills. He does the same for a senior group at another association in Portimão.

Couple work

At first, Fabio worked alone, but now he works with his wife, Ana. I asked how they met, and Fabio shared a heart-touching story. “I had a student with Down syndrome, whose partner didn’t want to continue with the dance lessons. I really wanted to find someone who would like to dance with him, because he enjoyed dancing so much. I posted an advertisement on social media looking for a dancing partner, someone who liked dancing and didn’t even need to pay for the lessons. Ana, who is now my wife, replied. When she came to the studio, her only request was that she wanted to pay for the classes. That is when I fell in love with her, but we started as friends, and later a romantic relationship developed.”

Ana liked to dance, but she wasn’t a professional. Fabio saw a lot of talent in her, and she began practising more and trying different dance styles. At first, she attended Fabio’s classes only as a student or as a “little help” when he needed support. Now, they lead the lessons together, and Ana has her own Lady Styling class.

Variety of dance styles

Fabio offers a wide variety of classes and dance styles, and today he employs several dancers who teach the students. “Bachata, salsa, kizomba, and Argentinian tango are among the most popular, but we also offer Pilates, flamenco, ballet, and much more.”

Classes for all ages

Very popular are also children’s classes, such as Zumba or hip-hop. This is how I initially discovered Fabio: I used to take my son to Zumbini class, designed for children up to 3 years old. My son was 2 at the time, and he loved the dancing and singing. Fabio’s way of working with the children was very friendly and authentic.

If you are interested in learning how to dance, but feel shy or have no prior experience, Fabio’s message is “Come and dance. Every expert was a beginner once. Dancing is supposed to be fun, and we are here to help and make you feel relaxed.”

English classes available

Even if you don’t speak Portuguese, that is not a problem; everyone is welcome. Fabio speaks several languages, including English, and explains that the classes are international, often with five or six nationalities in one room.

Also, you don’t need to have a partner to join. In the past, it was mostly women attending classes, but recently the groups have become more balanced. Both men and women of different ages participate, and even if you come with your partner, Fabio encourages switching partners to experiment with different dynamics.

Continuous training

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Dança Mais;

When I spoke with Fabio, he had just returned from a weekend training course. Even after many years in this field, he continues to evolve, learn new things, and earn new certifications.

“In the future, we will keep sharing our teaching skills and knowledge, developing our skills, learning new methodologies, and offering the best experience for our clients.

When do the classes take place?

Balancing personal life and work looks a bit different for Fabio and Ana, since most dance classes take place in the evening or even at night.

“Our schedule is different, because we wake up later and have breakfast around 11 or 12 am, and our lunch is around 4pm. I go to the school around 5pm, and Ana joins me around 7 pm. We are lucky to have grandparents who can help us with the children, as our youngest is 3 years old."

During their free family time, they like taking trips to Cacela Velha or enjoying the family-friendly beach in Ferragudo.

Dança Mais offers Latin American, contemporary dance, and ballroom dance for all ages, with a friendly, warm approach from Fabio and his wife, Anna. They provide both technical training and social dance forms, as well as private classes.

Don’t hesitate to check their Facebook page, Dança mais or Instagram @dancamaisportimao to find more information.