Afro Haitian [Beg.Level]

A class for all! This Haitian dance class will take you on a journey to the ‘nanm’, meaning ‘soul’ in Haitian creole. Learn from the source with Julio Jean, experienced, Haitian dancer, artist and teacher. Haitian cultural dance is a musical and embodied ode to the different ‘Iwa’, the gods of Vodou religion. Through dance, song and rhythms you’ll explore traditional Haitian dance forms whose ancient roots trace back to Africa and whose unique identity was shaped through a rich history of cultural exchanges in Haiti. Feel the undulating movements of ‘Yanvalou’, the powerful precision of ‘Nago’ and the grace and beauty of the ‘Kongo’ with the immersive instructions of Julio Jean whose extensive credits include work with the creator of Dunham Technique, Katherine Dunham.

Julio Jean is a renowned, master Haitian dance teacher and choreographer. He blends traditional Haitian dance forms with modern and contemporary dance to create compelling movement narratives. Born and raised in Haiti, his extensive career of over 20 years includes work with Katherine Dunham and performances of his company’s choreographies at Alvin Ailey and Central Park’s Summer Stage. Julio studied with Lavinia Williams, a company member of Katherine Dunham, at the National School of Arts in Haiti. In 1989, he moved to New York City and worked directly with Katherine Dunham, teaching traditional Haitian dance for her teacher trainings. He’s been a guest teacher at Webster University in Saint Louis and Humboldt University in Berlin, Germany, and has taught workshops across the USA. Currently, Julio teaches in New York City and at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. He’s a versatile artist, next to being a dancer, he’s also a songwriter and composer of traditional Haitian music. He released the album: “Kenbe la”, which encompasses the panorama of traditional Haitian music.

Want to learn more about our instructor, Julio Jean? Check out Julio's Instagram with the link below!

I G: @julio.jean.71

Cumbe offers a lot more than our regular classes! We provide special workshops and social events that anyone can join!

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https://cumbedance.org/workshops

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Host or Publisher Cumbe: Center for African and Diaspora Dance