POTSDAM — Fernando V. Pantoja wants to spread his love for salsa music around the north country.

The Ecuador native has been offering dance lessons at the Ballet Academy of Northern New York, Potsdam, and the Yoga Loft, Canton.

But now he hopes to recreate a club atmosphere so his students can join area salsa enthusiasts to enjoy the pulse of Latin music, and show what they can do on the dance floor.

So Mr. Pantoja spends Friday nights at the ballet academy, spinning salsa music and showing people steps. He calls the promotion "Fiesta Fridays."

"I used to do work in the big clubs in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Cincinnati. I see we need something new in the north country," he said. "I want to try to share my culture in the community."

Mr. Pantoja, who goes by the name DJ Ferchi when he spins salsa music, says "Fiesta Fridays" will give people a taste of his culture, as well as provide a hot spot for Latino college students and professors.

"That's my focus — I want to grow the Latino culture in our country," Mr. Pantoja said. "We're going to establish a Latino spot."

He said that he has attracted interest just by dancing in local bars.

"I'll go and do a little show and everybody will go crazy," Mr. Pantoja said. "I want to get something different, something good, going."

Mr. Pantoja came to Canton last year when his wife, Susan Willson, accepted a professorship in conservation biology at St. Lawrence University. She also teaches Pilates at the Yoga Loft.

Haley E. Billings, the ballet and jazz studio's artistic director, said that her students are excited about Fiesta Fridays.

The 6 Elm St. academy also hosts "Tango with Todd," a popular monthly event sponsored by What A Racquette Music & Dance, featuring instruction in tango, rhumba and samba from Todd A. Moe and music by Piquant.

"We want to introduce a few new types of dance alternatives," Ms. Billings said. "A lot of people are interested in it."

"Fiesta Fridays" are open from 9 p.m. to midnight for people ages 16 and up. The cover charge is $5, though Mr. Pantoja said he'll waive that fee for women this week.

Eventually, Mr. Pantoja would like to expand his salsa events into his own space. But for now, he just hopes that the warm weather will get people's toes tapping — and ready to try the flirtatious dance.

"I want people to bring a partner, and dance salsa — the hottest rhythm," he said. "My business is making people happy, and having fun."

For more information about "Fiesta Fridays," call the ballet academy at 265-TOES (265-8637), or Mr. Pantoja at 566-9138.