Location: André Cailloux Center
2541 Bayou Rd, New Orleans, LA, 70119
12:30 pm- 2:00 pm
Afro-Cuban with Emilio Gonzalez Hernandez
This class introduces adult dancers to the foundational movements and rhythms of Afro-Cuban dance, with a focus on Orisha-based techniques and their spiritual and cultural roots. Through grounded movement, polyrhythmic footwork, and guided exploration, dancers will embody the powerful connection between tradition, storytelling, and physical expression. All levels welcome; open hearts and open minds encouraged.
2:15 pm- 3:45 pm
2nd Line Dance Aesthetic with Michelle Gibson
Rooted in the rich cultural traditions of New Orleans, this high-energy class explores the movement, rhythm, and spirit of 2nd Line dancing. Dancers will dive into the improvisational style, footwork, and attitude that define the 2nd Line dance—blending joy, resilience, and community expression. Come ready to sweat, groove, and celebrate the culture that moves the streets of New Orleans. All levels welcome.
4:00 pm- 5:30 pm
Grenadian Folkloric Dance with Dr. Shola K. Roberts
Through this workshop, the rich cultural heritage of Grenada is preserved while participants engage in a movement vocabulary that speaks to the polyrhythmic execution of the body. Participants will have the opportunity to navigate between principles like centering, alignment, gravity, use of breath, contraction and release, fall and recovery, balance and off-balance, tension and relaxation, opposition, succession, spiral, swing and momentum. Utilizing the genre of Soca music brings in a culturally relevant approach as it addresses the ever changing social element of Caribbean culture.
5:45 pm- 7:15 pm
Afro-Brazilian Dance with Isaiah Tyrelle Boyd
This all-levels class kicks off with a full warm-up, then flows through high-energy, full-bodied steps that build into a complete combination. Drawing inspiration from Isaiah’s mentor Tania Santiago, the class explores traditional Afro-Brazilian movement with a contemporary flair, all in a way that’s fun, accessible, and welcoming to everyone.
7:30 pm- 9:00 pm
West African (Guinean) Dance with Youssouf Koumbassa
Experience the power and beauty of traditional Guinean dance with master artist Youssouf Koumbassa. This high-energy class features live drumming and focuses on the rhythms, movement, and cultural significance of dances from Guinea, West Africa.