Jose Louis Maldonado 

Jose started his dance journey in 1996 at the age of 13. Having danced under the Direction of Betty Vega. His leadership qualities led him to choreograph and direct his own team at the age of 18 known as the City Latin Dancers. 

In late 2003, he started his formal dance training with La Luna Dance Studio, a staple in Philadelphia’s Dance Community. There he had the opportunities to train under: Sonya Elmore, Victor Colon, Fernando Sosa, Jayson Molina, and Andy Cruz. Through La Luna’s Dance Company Luna Negra; Jose has Performed at the Puerto Rico Salsa Congress, The New York Salsa Festival in Brooklyn, and venues all over Philadelphia.

In 2008 he helped form Calle Luna Dance Company alongside Noel Rodriguez. Becoming one of the most featured and sought after Dance Companies on the east coast. In 2013 Calle Luna took 2nd place in the Small teams division at the World Salsa Summit. 2014 brought Calle Luna’s First Small Teams World Championship at the World Salsa Summit. 

Jose partnered with Loretta Chianese from 2011-2020 winning 9 World Championships in Salsa, Bachata, Cabaret, and Latin Hustle. Under the guidance of their coach Billy Fajardo;  Jose and Loretta became certified judges in 2015. And Winning his 10th World Championship In Salsa at the 2023 International Latin Hustle Competition with his wife Isabel.

Jose and Isa have opened their own studio and started their own company. Ritmos Unidos Dance Studio. Jose has influenced many of today’s up and coming professional dancers coming out of Philadelphia.