Part 3 of 3 - Afro Urban Dance Workshops Vol. 11
About this Event
Woezo Africa Music & Dance Theatre Inc. presents Afro Urban Dance Workshops (AUDW) Vol 11: Coupé-Décalé Evolution and Azonto.
Join us for a vibrant celebration and recognition of popular Afro-diasporic dance forms. This workshop series invites participants to explore movement, history, and cultural context through African traditional, street, and social dances that continue to shape urban culture in Calgary.
In this eleventh installment of the AUDW series, we are excited to spotlight dynamic modern and traditional styles from Africa and the Afro-diaspora. Participants will have the opportunity to engage deeply with both Coupé-Décalé Evolution and Azonto, learning not only the movements but also the cultural stories and influences behind them.
We look forward to welcoming you for an energetic, educational, and inspiring dance experience!
WORKSHOP DETAILS:
Ordinateur - Coupé-Décalé Evolution
10 am - 12 pm
Class Description: Explore the evolution of Coupé Décalé through the dynamic second wave of the genre, popularized by influential artists such as DJ Arafat. This high energy class introduces participants to modern Coupé Décalé techniques, featuring powerful movements, intricate footwork, and signature steps such as Kpangor, Cheloubouka, and Deboitement. Dancers will develop rhythm, musicality, improvisation skills, and performance presence while experiencing the vibrant spirit and playful energy that define this iconic Ivorian dance style.
Akosua Akoto - Azonto
1 pm - 3 pm
Class Description: Discover the energy and creativity of Azonto, the iconic Ghanaian dance style that gained global recognition for its playful storytelling and expressive movement. Rooted in the traditions of the Ga people, Azonto transforms everyday actions into dynamic dance while blending rhythm, musicality, and personality. This class explores both the original foundations of Azonto and its modern evolution, featuring intricate footwork, freestyle expression, and contemporary choreography. Suitable for all levels, participants will build confidence, coordination, and a deeper appreciation for one of Ghana’s most influential dance forms.
TICKETS:
One Workshop (Either Coupé-Décalé Evolution OR Azonto): $30
Both Workshops: $50
NOTE: This is one of three AUDWs that are happening in July. The other dates are July 11and 18, and the guest dance artists are teaching Traditional Ethiopian Dance, Kuduro, Traditional Cameroon dance - Bikutsi and Coupé-Décalé Foundations.
Contact Aissatou at [email protected] if you have any questions or for more information.
Born in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Ordinateur is widely recognized as a pioneering force in Ivorian urban dance and the originator of the distinctive Magic Feet style, a technique celebrated for its speed, precision, and rhythmic complexity.
Identified early for his exceptional agility and creativity, he quickly rose within the coupé-décalé movement, contributing to its evolution both on the streets and on major stages. His collaborations with influential artists such as DJ Arafat helped amplify his visibility and solidify his role in shaping the visual identity of the genre during a critical period of its global expansion.
Now based in Europe, Ordinateur continues to extend his impact internationally through performances, masterclasses, and cultural exchange initiatives. His work goes beyond technique, rooted in a philosophy that positions dance as a tool for empowerment, transmission, and social connection. Through workshops and community engagement, he actively invests in the next generation of dancers, particularly within diasporic and underserved communities.
Balancing stage practice, pedagogy, and humanitarian efforts, Ordinateur embodies a generation of artists who are both culturally grounded and globally engaged. His explosive yet intentional style reflects not only artistic excellence but also a deep commitment to unity, resilience, and the transformative power of movement.
For Akosua, traditional West African dance was ritual before it was performance and urban African dance styles were part of social gathering before they were an Instagram video. While the majority of movers are catching onto the trend of African dance styles one popular dance move at a time, Akosua uses dance language to shine a wider spotlight on African culture as a whole. A dance scholar, performer, choreographer, movement coach, and artistic director; Akosua is working to strike a balance between the commercial industry and the underground universe that is traditional African dance.
Born and raised in Washington DC, Akosua is a product of Ghanaian culture, a traditional Senegalese ballet, and a hint of life in the Caribbean. She made her first appearance on stage at age 3. Her early work in choreography and dance instruction began at age 13 for a collection of after school programs in the Washington DC Metropolitan area. She taught her first adult West African dance class at age 15, an achievement that would jump start her career in choreography. Akosua’s undergraduate career at Howard University is a melting pot of both exercise science and an introduction to the world of modern and contemporary dance. An experience on which she bases unique strategies as a movement coach.
She founded ASA! Enterprises in 2011 – an umbrella company covering ASA!, one of the first international African dance fitness programs, a line of sport and dance apparel, a group fitness certification, the SBJ Dance and Mentorship program and the ASA! Body Personal Training Studio. She is also the co-founder of the Antigua-based carnival company, FUZE. She is an injury rehabilitation specialist and personal trainer with 4 national certifications, 2 degrees, and 10 years experience in the physical therapy and fitness industries. She has traveled the world as a performer and dance instructor gracing stages, TV screens, and studios across the United States, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and West Africa. She has worked with celebrities across cultures including Jidenna, Janet Jackson, Busta Rhymes, Machel Montano, Fally Ipupa and more. With every opportunity, Akosua moves from and through culture.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 33.40 to CAD 54.73
