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Meet Sonia, Sabrine, Malou and Ana, our Talented Instructors and the Live Band Gentlemen & Gangsters for the Upcoming Solstice Bern Workshop. Get ready to experience the energy and passion of Jazz, Charleston, Afro-Fusion and Afro-Cuban.
Sonia Ortega
Authentic Jazz
Sonia is a professional dancer based on Jazz music and the swing rhythm. Lindy Hop is her preferred dance style, as it allows her to fully utilize the techniques she has learned throughout her life, including Argentinian tango, Latin rhythms, classical dance, and contemporary dance. In her classes, Sonia encourages students to explore Jazz music through dance, developing exercises that focus on quality of movement, rhythm, and self-expression. She also places emphasis on learning from her students, fostering a positive and interactive atmosphere in the classroom and a strong teacher-student relationship.
Sabrine Ewies
Afro-fusion
Sabrine is a certified Dance Coach, owning and running the Sabou Dance Academy in Amsterdam. With over 17 years of dancing experience and 5 years of teaching, she has built a community of over a thousand women. Sabrine has created dance digital courses for brands such as Nike, ASICS, Tommy Hilfiger, and taught in Europe’s biggest gym. Her motivation is to help women step away from being fearful, self-conscious, and insecure by providing them with the tools, mindsets, and safe space they need to embrace their voice and live a life of alignment, fulfilment, and purpose
Street Afro Dance styles (Azonto, Naija Fusion, Afrohouse and Amapiano):
Afro street dance is a dynamic fusion of traditional African movements and urban street dance styles. With rhythmic and energetic movements, fluidity, and body isolations, it’s a cultural and musical experience that goes beyond just physical movement. Join Sabrine in exploring this vibrant dance form and discover the culture, music, and movements of styles like Azonto, Naija Fusion, Afrohouse, and Amapiano. Unlock your unique self-expression, increase body awareness, and let go of fear to embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Malou Meyenhofer
Authentic Jazz
Malou Meyenhofer is an accomplished dancer and choreographer with a wealth of experience in contemporary, modern jazz, and ballet. Her talent has taken her around the world, and she has worked with renowned choreographers such as Chester A. Whitmore. She founded her own dance company in 2016, and her first production, “Complicated!”, integrated dance and spoken word in a bold new way. Don’t miss the chance to learn from Malou and be inspired by her unique vision and expertise.
Ana Adelaida
Afro-Cuban
Meet Ana, a talented dance and Iyengar Yoga instructor from Cuba now based in Bern. With years of experience, Ana offers a blend of Afrocubano classes that bring focus to precise body movements and fluid, gentle yet powerful whole-body movements. Join her at the 2023 Solstice and deepen your understanding of these dynamic and inspiring styles.
Exploring the Role of Orishas in Afrocubano Dance:
Afrocubano dancing is steeped in the tradition of the Afro-American religion, Santería. The Orishas, the gods of this religion, represent natural forces such as water, earth, air, and fire. Each Orisha is associated with its own music, drum beats, songs, and dance movements, all of which reflect the complex Yoruba mythology. During Ana’s dance classes, participants will delve into the intricacies of these sacred dances, gaining a deeper understanding of this rich cultural heritage.
Gentlemen & Gangsters
Join the musical mayhem with Gentlemen & Gangsters, the jazz band with a vintage twist. Hailing from Gothenburg, this dynamic group blends traditional New Orleans hot jazz with a touch of swing, captivating audiences with their sophisticated yet edgy performances. Experience their high-energy rhythms and smooth melodies that pay homage to jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, all while incorporating a modern edge. This shady syndicate of jazz kingpins are not to be missed as they plot for world domination with their infectious sound. Praised by lindy hop dancers from around the world for their sensitivity to the dance community and presence on stage, get ready to move to the beat of their drumsticks. So grab your dancing shoes and be ready for a thrilling night with Gentlemen & Gangsters.
