Meet Jose SantoyoJose

Jose Santoyo is an award-winning professional dancer, choreographer and instructor who has performed on stage and        television for over twenty years. With a specialization in Latin dance, Jose is noted for his versatility in integrating all dance genres – from ballroom to breakdance. He has performed and/or choreographed for performances on TV’s So You Think You Can Dance, in venues such as the Rose Bowl, and with a list of artists that includes Jennifer Lopez, Mark Anthony, Eva Longoria, Patrick Swayze and Jimmy Bosch. 

Jose is founder and artistic director of Top Shelf Latin Entertainment, a dance production company based in Austin, Texas that specializes in story-line theatrical performances. Formed in 2014, the Company produces dance performances for entertainment venues, television commercials, and special events such as weddings and bar mitzvahs, sporting events, and private parties. Jose is also a private dance instructor for individuals of all skill levels, Including Oscar De La Hoya, Farrah Abraham, and many other Hollywood Actors with a focus on Latin and ballroom dancing.

Among Jose’s many accolades is the Bronze Halo Award for Excellence in Entertainment from the Southern California Motion Picture Council for Rhythm & Passion, a theatrical musical show he choreographed in collaboration with Gloria Otero of the Otero Dance company who Traveled and performed all over Asia Also, he choreographed and performed in the critically acclaimed “Hector Lavoe” number that won the Mayan World Championship dance title in 2007. 

Known for his innovative style and willingness to break barriers, Jose is especially proud of  " Patria Y Vida "a Short Film shot by Big and Little Productions. Directed, Cheoreographed, and Produced by Jose Santoyo, His Vision takes you through the streets of Cuba and Its Culture. He captures the Essence of Cuban Music and Dancing with Live Music. His project, “La Boa,” features live musicians performing on stage along with dancers, creating an impactful theatrical performance for the famous Mexican band Sonora Santanera. 

Jose’s production titled “Mi Gente,” has been performed around the world to standing ovations, in places such as New York, Puerto Rico, Miami, San Antonio, Houston, and Austin. He danced with Eva Longoria’s Hot Tamales Live at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. 

 Jose now resides in Austin Tx and continues to Teach, Coach and Train with his Dance Company Top Shelf Latin Entertainment. He also Hosts Live Music Venues here in Austin and Surrounding Cities. His Vision and Inspiration is now focused on Growing the Latin community and Preserving the Latin Culture by Working with local Artists and Venues to Hold Live Music and Dancing focused on Salsa he Learned from Los Angeles.