04/28/2026
This week we lost a light in the New York Hustle Community, Herb Alicea.
Many of us know Herb as the first person willing to dance with us at a social when we were just starting. He was sweet, playful, bright—always encouraging, generous with feedback, respectful and safe. Even after dancing for many years, he never stopped being a student—a regular in Hustle Club class, or trying waacking on the social floor.
When I showed up to my very first hustle social at DanceSport as a baby beginner, Herb spent most of the night helping me. Because of him, I always knew that if I showed up, I would have someone to dance with. His generous spirit is the reason so many of us came back to a hustle social a second or third time—and in that way, he helped build the community we have today. He embodied the spirit of welcoming and openness that Hustle Club aspires to.
What I learned from Herb is this: if you have something to share, share it. When you reach out to someone new and offer a dance and some encouragement—no matter how advanced you are—you have a huge impact.
Herb was a resilient man with a layered life who took so much joy from dancing, and from bringing that joy to others. I admire and respect him, and I will miss him so much.
We will dance in Herb’s honor this Wednesday, and all Wednesdays. ❤️
If you have any stories you’d like to share about Herb, we would love to read them in the comments.
