the heart behind dte

Meet Cristi Mason-Rivera

Founder l Choreographer l Instructor

My love of dance began at the age five, and it’s been a part of my life ever since. After dancing throughout my younger years and into my early 20’s, I found my way back to dance at 37—and when I did, I took it back on with a vengeance! What followed was nearly two decades of dancing and taking classes in Portland and Los Angeles, with opportunities to learn from and dance alongside some of LA’s most accomplished professional dancers. Along the way I also spent three years performing with a Portland-based dance group.

With a background spanning hip-hop, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, modern, house, ballroom, Latin, Lindy Hop and West Coast Swing, my choreography blends a variety of influences into a style best described as Jazz Funk or Commercial Hip-Hop.

I founded Down to Earth Dance Collective because I wanted to create something I felt was missing in Salem: a welcoming space where adults could experience the excitement, creativity and challenge of dance, regardless of age or where they are in their dance journey. I believe dance is incredibly valuable in our adult lives—not only for its physical benefits, but for its therapeutic power to relieve stress, lift our spirits, build confidence and give us an outlet for self-expression.

My classes are built around learning choreography, developing dance skills, challenging yourself and most importantly, having a great time doing it. I believe in high standards without taking ourselves too seriously, and the kind of energy that makes you leave class feeling amazing.

Whether you’re returning to dance after years away or stepping onto the dance floor for the very first time, I believe there’s a place for you here.