The sixth annual Mambo Nights in Bermuda starts tonight and will feature two dance showcases with international and local performers, social dancing as well as workshops.

Called 'Latin Beat: The Evolution of Mambo', events run until Monday and it is being presented by the BermudaSalsa.com Group, whose manager Travis Gilbert said: "The rise of Latin cultural expression in Bermuda has been amazing.

"Its growth and success in Bermuda over the past 12 years is the result of the way it makes people feel.

"It reminds us that we are alive and no matter how challenging life may get, it should always be celebrated."

The event is being supported by a partnership including the Bermuda Department of Tourism and Brown & Co. and the entertainment begins tonight with music and dancing at Latin Restaurant.

Tomorrow will feature the Grammy award-winning Latin recording artist Willy Torres from Puerto Rico, who will perform at the Lido Complex.

He will be followed up by a host of international Latin DJs that will spin tunes for social dancing in The Deep Lounge and Nightclub.

This year's showcase, 'Latin Beat: The Evolution of Mambo', will be staged in the Mid-Ocean Amphitheatre of the Fairmont Southampton on Friday and Saturday starting at 8.30 p.m.

"For those who wish to find out what this Latin craze is all about, or for those who just want to learn more about its history, this year's show is for you," he said. "Each showcase will highlight the evolution of mambo in different ways, with dance routines playing the primary role in Friday's showcase.

"Saturday's showcase will take audience members on a journey as seen through the eyes of the retiring caretaker of a theatre which is closing down after many years of presenting some of the finest Latin entertainment of its time.

"The caretaker, who is played by Bermudian actor Robert Godfrey, reminisces of years gone by while the audience witnesses performances by local and international dancers as they unravel a spellbinding story beginning with the birth of Big Band Mambo onto its modern and fiery fusions."

The Mambo Nights weekend also includes social dancing at Latin Restaurant, Bonefish Bar & Grill and the beach at Horseshoe Bay, as well as a fabulous variety of workshops by international instructors.

Workshops include instruction in Guaguanco, Rumba, Samba, Hustle and of course, Salsa.