Papo grew up loving Salsa, and started dancing in the 1970’s at parties and family gatherings. Working with his sister, Papo’s youthful interpretations of Salsa was radically changed later as he began to formally study the technical aspect of the style.

In 1994, Papo took his first trip to the Copacabana in New York City with a few friends and danced the whole night … that was the turning point, he was hooked. Papo says, “We made the trip to the Copacabana at least twice a month from then on, and I suddenly noticed I wasn’t dancing the same steps as most of the other dancers.” Papo noticed their steps looked much sharper and more sensual than his own. Seeing the difference, Papo sought out New York’s acclaimed Eddie Torres and joined his intensive Mambo classes, riding the train to New York City every Sunday for the next couple of years.

Rising quickly to the top, Papo began instructing Mambo / Salsa On 2 lessons in the Trenton area in 1996. Papo has now taught over three thousand students throughout the Central Jersey area, most recently with Central Jersey Dance Society. Papo focuses on building the foundation for social dancing, rather than choreographed performances. You can often find him leading groups of social dancers at clubs through out New Jersey.