The amazing dance group "DanceBrazil" delivered a great performance on Saturday March 22, 2008 at 7:30 pm at Cincinnati Music Hall. Presented by the Cincinnati Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, "DanceBrazil" performed for the first time in Cincinnati. "DanceBrazil" is an electrifying example of the globalization of dance. It offers the best of traditional and contemporary Afro-Brazilian dance, including the sensational martial arts form of capoeira.
The performers of "DanceBrazil" have thrilled audiences around the world for more than 25 years with their unique dance style, and it did the same in Cincinnati. This one of a kind event should not be missed!
All proceeds of this event benefited charitable programs and services of the Cincinnati Chapter of the Links, Incorporated. The Links, Inc. is a volunteer service organization of committed women concerned with contributing to the formulation of a positive, productive and culturally diverse society. The Links, Inc. also focuses on education, cultural enrichment, health and wellness and civic involvement. This focus is implemented through strategies such as in public information and education, economic development and public policy.
Afro-Brazilian dance and martial arts to electrify audience
Afro-Brazilian dance is coming to Cincinnati. The Links, Incorporated, Cincinnati Chapter is excited to bring DanceBrazil to Cincinnati Music Hall on Saturday, March 22, 2008. Tickets are on sale now.
As part of the Cincinnati festivities, The Links will present the following community service awards: Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth; Michael Beck; James Anderson; Joe and Susan Pichler; and Marvel Gentry Davis.
Founded in 1975 by Jelon Vieira, and with the assistance of the late Alvin Ailey, DanceBrazil undertook the goal of spreading an Afro-Brazilian cultural message through its performances and educational activities. The company’s mission is to entertain audiences through a mixture of dance, martial arts, acrobatics, and pulsing live music, while educating them about the history and culture of African slaves and their descendants in Africa.
The company fuses traditional Afro-Brazilian movements and rhythms with modern dance. DanceBrazil is an electrifying example of the globalization of dance. It offers the best of traditional and contemporary Afro-Brazilian dance, including the sensational martial arts form of capoeira.
Within a few years of its inception, DanceBrazil performed at the prestigious Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall in New York City. They now tour throughout the United States, Asia and Europe.
When not on tour, Vieira and his 20 dancers are at home in Brazil teaching children and young adults, building their self-esteem, and instilling in them self-discipline to raise social consciousness so that the youth become a vital part of their own communities.
Prior to the performance on March 22, there will be the following events:
• Thursday, March 20, at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. – “From Slavery to Freedom” Museum Tour, and 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. – Lecture and Demonstration by DanceBrazil for junior/middle and high school students.
• Thursday, March 20, 7-9 p.m. at the Havana Martini Club downtown: The Cincinnati Chapter of The Links will host a “Welcome to Cincinnati V.I.P. Reception” for Honorees, Presenting Sponsors, the Mayor and other dignitaries, the Press, and $100 ticket patrons to meet the DanceBrazil group.
• Friday, March 21, 10 – 11 a.m. (time subject to change): Afro-Brazilian Master Dance Class with DanceBrazil at the Cincinnati Ballet’s Otto Budig Academy downtown. Open to the public.
Regina Daily, chair of The Links’ DanceBrazil event, says proceeds from the event will benefit the Summer Linkages programs for senior citizens and youth, the Links’ Annual Girls Conference, and the Youth Docent Program at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.