SPA26: La Salsa Vive

Australian premiere

Telling the story of two cities bound by the rhythm of salsa, New York City and Cali, Colombia, La Salsa Vive is a vibrant cinematic exploration of the evolution of the style and a collective passion that has inspired generations.

Following the roots of salsa in the neighbourhoods of NYC during the 1970s, the documentary explores its subsequent consolidation as a cultural symbol in Cali, Colombia, the self-proclaimed “world capital of salsa,” where it thrives with unmatched passion.

Through over five decades of stories, anecdotes and profound transformations, it shows how this genre, which lost strength in its city of origin and instead found a new life in Cali, where it continues to vibrate in dance schools, nightclubs, orchestras and popular neighbourhoods.

Featuring insights from salsa legends like singers Rubén Blades and Henry Fiol, percussionists Samuel Formell, Johnny "Dandy" Rodríguez and orchestra conductor Willie Rosario, and highlighting the dedicated dancers, music collectors, and enthusiastic youth who are united through music and dance, La Salsa Vive is a pulsating journey of a vivid cultural history.

Festivals & Awards

OFFICIAL SELECTION – Palm Springs Film Festival 2026
OFFICIAL SELECTION - SXSW Film Festival 2025
OFFICIAL SELECTION - Vancouver International Film Festival 2025

Colombia, USA | Spanish with English subtitles