Afro-Cuban Folkloric with Ethan

AFRO-CUBAN FOLKLORIC The origins of timba and salsa—both the music and the dance—that spread around the world have their roots in Afro-Cuban folkloric dances, the movements and rhythms that were brought to the island of Cuba by the African peoples who were taken and sold as slaves by the Spanish colonists. These dances are full of depth and soul, ranging from the sacred and spiritual to the ceremonial and celebratory. They include the traditions of a wide variety of African cultures—Yoruba, Congo, Dahomey, Carabali, and others. Many of the steps that we now use in salsa owe their history and development to these Afro-Cuban traditions, and many of the best dancers incorporate Afro-Cuban elements into their style. This workshop will introduce you to some of the movements and rhythms of this beautiful culture. Note: Please wear clothes that you can easily move (and sweat!) in for this class; it is recommended to dance barefoot.