CBC Calgary and Calgary Public Library Present: Stories in Motion
Exploring global dance forms through a workshop series
Introducing CBC Calgary's Stories in Motion in partnership with Calgary Public Library, a free workshop series that celebrates global culture and community through the mesmerizing art of dance. Just as we did with the hugely successful Instrumental Stories, we're extending our commitment to bringing diverse stories to life through the universal language of movement.
Stories in Motion, curated by DANCE YYC, will take you on a journey through the rhythms and expressions of Calgary's vibrant communities. Our project is an invitation to explore the beauty of cultural dance and stay connected with your roots, or simply find common ground through shared passions. Join us as we step off the airwaves and onto the dance floor, reaching hidden pockets of dance enthusiasts and keen learners. Let's move together, Calgary!
Afro-fusion: Where cultures unite and bodies groove
Saturday, May 25
Workshop begins at 11 a.m.
Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the start
Central Library (Shaikh Family Welcome Gallery)
800 3 St. SE
Registration closed
Be prepared to dance! Please wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes.
About the dance form:
Afro-fusion is a dance party where explosive African moves meet the hottest styles from around the globe. Rhythms that will make your body buzz? That's the magic of Afro-fusion! It's a class that explores the different urban styles and grooves that come from the continent of Africa. It's a dance journey through history, a celebration of culture, and a guaranteed way to sweat out a smile.
Get ready to unleash your inner rhythm royalty:
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Own your movement: Explore the roots of African dance and connect to a vibrant, global tradition.
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Shine bright: Let loose, have fun, and discover a joy of movement that'll leave you wanting more!
About the Artist:
Amanda Okafor is a Calgary-born dancer and choreographer. She has been a member of the African dance community since the age of eight and has since been a driving force in sharing and introducing Afro dance styles to the greater community of Calgary. She has provided classes and training for Pulse studios Calgary, Decidedly Jazz Danceworks, Calgary Catholic Immigration Society, the Calgary Catholic Board and Calgary Board of Education. Amanda's work as a dancer has often been described as very energetic, vibrant, powerful, and moving – a direct representation of her favorite aspects of African culture.
West African Groove with Masani St. Rose
Saturday, March 23
Workshop begins at 11 a.m.
Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior
Central Library (Shaikh Family Welcome Gallery)
800 3 St. SE
Registration closed
Please wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes.
About the dance form:
West African dancing encompasses a diverse range of traditional dance styles originating from the countries of West Africa, including but not limited to Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Guinea, Mali, and Ivory Coast. These dances are deeply rooted in the cultures, histories, and traditions of the various ethnic groups within the region. West African dancing is characterized by energetic movements, rhythmic footwork, and expressive gestures that often convey narratives, emotions, or spiritual themes. Dancers typically perform in groups, with intricate patterns and formations, accompanied by live percussion music such as drums, bells, and sometimes vocals. Costumes and attire may vary depending on the specific cultural context but often include vibrant fabrics and accessories that add to the visual spectacle. West African dancing serves various purposes, including social gatherings, celebrations, rituals, and storytelling, and it plays a significant role in preserving cultural heritage and fostering community cohesion.
About the Artist:
Masani was born and raised in Mohkinstsis (Calgary, AB). She immersed into learning about her ancestral roots through dance at the tender age of 3, specializing in West African and Caribbean dance. Upon the introduction to dance, Masani found passion for the West African traditions, culture and style. It was through training under Michèle Moss-Johnston at Decidedly Jazz Danceworks, she was able to build her foundation. Still working very closely with Michèle Moss-Johnston and various other artists from Guinea, West Africa, she finds every opportunity to take master classes from various regions of Africa including Congo, Uganda, Ghana, Mali, Guinea and Zimbawe. Throughout the years, Masani has worked with various studios and professional groups across Canada. It is her mission to keep the art and culture alive from soul to sole!
Samba Soul with Tina Fedun
Saturday, March 2
Workshop begins at 11 a.m.
Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior
Central Library (Shaikh Family Welcome Gallery)
800 3 St. SE
Registration closed
Please wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes.
About the dance form:
In May 2023, a law was enacted in Brazil that officially declared Samba schools, their parades, music, rehearsals, and traditions as expressions of the national culture. Originating in Brazil in the 19th century, Samba owes its rhythm and movements to the enslaved Africans of the Brazilian sugarcane plantations. After slavery ended, the form migrated to the Favelas, informal settlements outside of cities, where former enslaved people built their communities, gathered in their spiritual groups, and formed dance troupes and musical groups for Carnival. Samba gatherings were boisterous and uninhibited, often frowned upon by Brazil's predominantly European ruling class, and even illegal at times throughout the country's modern history. Despite this, Samba proved irresistible, its popularity crossing class and border lines, with its music and movements richly coloured by its roots as well as regional and international influences.
About the Artist:
Tina Fedun, Co-Founder of SambaSoul YYC, discovered her passion for dance in childhood, embracing Ukrainian Folk Dance, Ballet, and Jazz. Entranced by the sounds of Samba Bateria drums as a young adult, Tina delved into Samba and Afro-Latin dance forms, seeking to explore movement, rhythm, and community connections. Immersing herself in Samba, Tina learned from Brazilian instructors and journeyed to Brazil in 2018 for first-hand cultural experiences. The pandemic, while restricting travel, offered Tina a unique opportunity for online training with esteemed Brazilian teachers, expanding her knowledge of Samba's roots and modern influences. Inspired by her transformative journey, Tina co-founded SambaSoul YYC in 2022, a Calgary-based dance group specializing in Brazilian dance, particularly Samba. Their mission is to empower through cultural education, spiritual connection, and the joy of dance. Through her dedication to dance and cultural exchange, Tina strives to spread the infectious joy and rhythms of Brazil to the world.
Soca Rhythms with Simeon Peters
Saturday, Feb. 10
Workshop begins at 11 a.m.
Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior
Central Library (Shaikh Family Welcome Gallery)
800 3 St. SE
Registration closed
Please wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes, and also try to bring either a Canadian or country of choice hand flag if possible.
About the dance form:
Soca, short for "soul of calypso," is a vibrant and energetic genre of music that originated in Trinidad and Tobago. This style fuses various Caribbean styles such as chutney, funk, soul, and Latin music. Recognized for its infectious beats, lively melodies, and spirited lyrics centered on celebration and dance, soca has evolved over time by incorporating electronic elements while preserving its traditional roots. Widely embraced during Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival season, soca's high-energy tunes create an atmosphere of exuberant celebration. This genre's global appeal lies in its ability to captivate audiences worldwide with its festive and uplifting vibe.
About the Artist:
Trinidad and Tobago-born Simeon Peters is a dancer and aspiring ethnographer, specializing in the Afro-centric aesthetic, particularly Trinidad and Tobago folklore. Holding an undergraduate degree in performance arts with a focus on dance from the Academy of Performing Arts in Trinidad and Tobago, he also earned two diplomas in traditional Chinese folk dance and modern dance from the Beijing Dance Academy in China. Notably, Peters toured extensively in the USA with UniverSoul Circus, showcasing his exceptional skills. Passionate about preserving Trinidad and Tobago's folklore, Peters collects data for future generations while actively contributing to cultural retention. Handpicked in 2022 to join Decidedly Jazz Danceworks after a groundbreaking audition in Trinidad, he looks forward to building connections in Canada and dreams of organizing a dance conference back in his homeland. Simeon Peters exemplifies the essence of community-building and cultural bridge-building through his artistry.
Feet-tapping Bhangra with Chetanvir Sadioura
Saturday, Jan. 27
Workshop begins at 11 a.m.
Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior
Central Library (Shaikh Family Welcome Gallery)
800 3 St. SE
Registration Closed
About the dance form:
Bhangra, a lively and exuberant dance form originating from the vibrant regions of Northern India is a celebration of joy and culture. Rooted in the agricultural traditions of the Punjabi people, Bhangra reflects the rhythmic movements and expressions associated with the harvesting season. The dance is characterized by energetic footwork, robust drum beats, and vibrant costumes that add a visual spectacle to its dynamic performance. Originally performed to the beats of live drumming, Bhangra has evolved with time, incorporating contemporary music while retaining its cultural essence. As a cultural emblem, Bhangra has transcended its regional roots, captivating audiences worldwide with its infectious energy and showcasing the rich heritage of Punjab.
About the Artist:
Chetanvir Sadioura is a law graduate from the University of Leicester, UK, currently pursuing qualification as a lawyer in Alberta. Since 2016, he has immersed himself in the vibrant world of Bhangra, transitioning from a student to a competitive dancer. Having competed all over North America and the UK, Chetanvir has earned accolades and placements at numerous competitions, including the world's biggest collegiate Bhangra competition in the UK.
As the retired captain of the Leicester University Bhangra Team, Chetanvir has successfully led teams to triumph on the global stage. Beyond Bhangra, his passion extends to various Punjabi folk dance forms such as Luddi, Dhamaal, Jindua, Sammi, Sialkoti, and Jhoomar. Currently serving as the head coach and choreographer at Dhamak Punjab Di, Chetanvir guides beginners to competitive teams. Actively involved in the Dhamak Bhangra competition, one of North America's biggest Bhangra competitions held in Calgary, he contributes to growing the rich tradition of Bhangra dance.
Rhythms of Ukraine with Olena Brahina
Saturday, Nov. 25
Workshop begins at 11 a.m.
Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior
Central Library (Shaikh Family Welcome Gallery)
800 3 St. SE
REGISTRATION CLOSED
About the dance form:
Traditional Ukrainian Folk dances were performed at weddings or festivals, with characteristic movements, rhythms, and costumes, specific to a region of Ukraine. Ukrainian dance for the stage has evolved from these typical house folk dances to dynamically choreographed masterpieces supported by colourful costumes, music conducted by symphony orchestras, and highly trained dancers. Olena will be teaching steps and movements typically done as a "traditional" Ukrainian folk dance. Much like a wedding celebration, we'll encourage everyone to get involved, participate, and have a great time learning Ukrainian Dance.
About the Artist:
Olena Brahina, school lead instructor and ensemble assistant at Tryzub Ukrainian Dance Society, is a graduate from the Berdiansk State Pedagogical University with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in dance.
Olena was a dancer of the Academic Song and Dance Ensemble Zaporozhtsi of the Zaporizhia Regional Philharmonic from 2006 to 2022. As part of the team, she visited many Ukrainian cities to present Ukrainian folk dance. Also, since 2003, she taught at the Baida Children's Folk Dance Ensemble as an instructor and later as a choreographer. The children's team took an active part in all Ukrainian and international competitions.
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