Experience the Heartbeat of Angolan Culture
Get ready for an incredible cultural and dance experience right here in Sarasota! Join us for a full day of immersive training, an authentic Angolan dinner, and a vibrant late-night social party. Whether you want to master the energetic roots of Semba or dive into the smooth, grounded connection of Kizomba, this intensive event is designed to elevate your technical precision, correct your posture, and connect you directly with the historic legacy of Angolan rhythm groups.
What is Kizomba & Semba?
To truly appreciate these social styles on the dance floor, it helps to understand their rich cultural development history:
- Semba: The traditional predecessor to Kizomba. Originating in Angola, Semba is a bright, high-energy, and playful social dance characterized by quick footwork, improvisational tricks, and a joyful cadence. The word itself translates directly to "a touch of the bellies" (umbigada).
- Kizomba: Born in Luanda, Angola, during the late 1970s and early 1980s, Kizomba evolved as a structural fusion of traditional Semba rhythms with the slower, romantic cadence of Caribbean Zouk music. It is a dance of deep connection, characterized by smooth, fluid ground movements, precise leg geometry, and a close partner embrace. "Kizomba" translates directly to "party" or "celebration" in the Kimbundu language.
Meet Your Organizers: Alicia & David Kota
This fantastic community event is brought to you by Alicia Kota and David Kota, professional instructors and promoters dedicated to spreading the authentic roots of Angolan dances - including Semba, Kizomba, and Tarraxinha - across Chile and the United States.
True cultural ambassadors, David and Alicia are officially certified by Mestre Petchu, one of the world's most revered pioneers and authorities on Angolan dance history and technical execution. Their training modules focus heavily on deep cultural context, correct alignment, body placement, musicality, and genuine partner connection.
Passes & Tiered Pricing Structures
Select the registration option that best fits your schedule and training priorities:
See flyer for schedule time and prices.
Note: This page is curated with AI assistance to support our local social dance community hub. Don't miss this rare opportunity to study authentic Angolan rhythms right here in the Sarasota region! Grab your indoor dance shoes and we will see you on the floor.