Our Team

Arelis Beato has been in the forefront of the mambo industry for two decades. She is known to her peers as "Magic Feet", a name acquired early in her dance career for her open footwork speed and unique ability to interpret the music. Her style is described as wicked and energetic, for the deep feeling and intensity she uses in her steps and movements. Arelis has been the owner and Artistic Director of the Tropical Image Dancers since 2000, and formed her own funded not-for-profit organization "Tropical Image Inc". in 2007, where the "Get Kids off the Streets Program was born and continues the mission to preserve the Latin Culture, music and dance as well as provide many other benefits to the youth in various communities. 

Her unending accomplishments and numerous awards include radio, television appearances and interviews in La Epoca Part 2, Santo Domingo Invita, La escena TV, Nuevotec, iMambotv, Que Chevere TV Show, Salsa & More Magazine, Despierta America, Al despertar, Sabado Gigante, Local Newspapers and others. 

Arelis represented New York at the ESPN World Salsa championships, in 2007 and 2009.  In May of 2008, she received the Highest Honor is the Mambo community, "Female Dancer of the Year" award from Albert Torres, the world renowned promoter of Latin dance and Music at the West Coast Salsa Congress in Los Angeles, CA. She also received a Merit Citation by the Public Advocate of the City of New York; and was chosen as the exclusive performer for the Chinese Delegates visit to the USA for 2 years in a row.   

Arelis has been the featured dancer for Chino Nunez, Conjunto Imagen and Frankie Negron, She has also performed in Major concerts for Robert Roena, Mambo Memories, LIU, Leahman College, NFL Monday Night Football and MLB Latin night concerts and more..  Arelis competed at the NY/NJ Salsa Open and judged several dance & Step Competitions in NY, NJ and Curazao, and was Classified a world Class instructor by Willie Torres, one of the World Salsa 7 members in 2007, and named a NEW YORK ALL-STAR by the Late David Melendez at the 3rd NY Salsa Congress.

Arelis is mainly recognized as the most accomplished Latin/Mambo Dancer, performer, Choreographer and Most Technical Salsa On 2 Dance Instructor in Brooklyn,  She has earned the merit as one of New York's top Female dancers, and Instructors.  She has directed, choreographed and produced original Latin/Mambo showcases, shared her knowledge and expertise at various Dance studios,  after school programs, NYC parks department, Latin events, corporate, Public & Private educational institutions; through workshops, lectures, educational showcases and performances both in the USA and other countries. 

Natalie Arce, is a dynamic and multi-talented artist who has dedicated her life to the arts from a young age. Beginning her journey as a dancer and makeup enthusiast, she has honed her skills to become a certified fitness instructor and a professional makeup artist. Her love for dance, especially Latin styles, has taken her across the globe, where she has performed in a variety of international venues, captivating audiences with her passion and precision.

Natalie's expertise isn't limited to the stage; she is also a skilled choreographer, crafting intricate routines that highlight the richness and diversity of Latin dance. Her choreography has been featured in numerous productions, earning her recognition as a leading figure in the dance community. 

Beyond her work in dance, Natalie has made her mark in the world of theater, contributing her talents to major shows and Off-Broadway productions. Her experience in these prestigious settings has not only refined her performance skills but also deepened her understanding of the artistic process, allowing her to bring a unique perspective to every project she undertakes.

Whether she is on stage, behind the scenes, or working with clients as a fitness instructor and makeup artist, Natalie Arce’s dedication to her craft is evident in everything she does. Her ability to blend creativity with discipline has made her a respected and influential figure in the world of performing arts.

Jamileth is from Brooklyn, NY and became the youngest dance instructor at Tropical Image at the age of 10, teaching Salsa Beginner and Styling classes to the Youngest team in the company. She was the 2nd youngest to also be chosen to perform with the Professional Dance company and has traveled and performed both in the USA and internationally. Jamileth has gained experience in choreography, teaching and performance with Ms. Arelis Beato, is certified to teach the Tropical Image Curriculum and has represented the company as an instructor at various NYC school afterschool programs. She is now a Nurse in her professional career and we value her assistance at Tropical Image.