LOS ANGELES, CA (back in 2004) — It was said that out of the more than 100 salsa congresses that Albert Torres Productions put together around the globe at that time, the West Coast Salsa Congress that took place in Los Angeles, CA, was the biggest in the world! In 2004, and with the slogan of "Creating Unity Through Salsa," ATP set out to organize what seemed to be a world salsa convention and seemed grander than life for Salsa lovers. It truly was a production bigger than most events you can think of, even outside of Salsa, and of the likes of "Fiesta Broadway" in Los Angeles, CA or "Calle 8" in Miami, FL. 

Let me reiterate that again...the event was seriously massive (I mean it). I got to personally witness the work and long hours of preparation that went into it by legions of professional service workers, as well as salsa lovers who volunteered their time to help out. I was one of those volunteers and was lucky to meet many wonderful people who were behind the scenes. The experience truly fueled my love for Salsa.

Now, just to be able to generate a good idea of how grand the West Coast Salsa Congress was for all those readers who never attended it or never knew of it, here are some stats that should paint a good picture in your mind:

• It occupied about 173,000 square feet in the parking lot of the Hollywood Park & Casino
• It showcased major musical talents such as Africando, Spanish Harlem Orquestra, Oscar De Leon, and many more bands 
• More than 112 routines were presented on-stage and were carefully selected from 500 dance companies around the world, which included Eddie Torres, Tropical Gem, Santo Rico, Masacote, Salsabor y Cache, Los Rumberos, Jayson Molina, Salsa Brava, and many more! 
• About 40 instructors from around the world taught intensive workshops at the event.
• It was attended by about 4,000 salsa music lovers and dancers from a range of about 40 different countries.