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From Africa to Cuba: Afro-Cuban Dance Finds a Home in Hampton RoadsThe percussive rhythms of Afro-Cuban dance have resonated over time since it’s roots in Africa to the island of Cuba. Now Hampton Roads gets it’s first taste of not only the rhythms but the culture behind the dance.Afro-Cuban dance is not only the heart of Latin music and dance it is the baseline from which current and future generations continue to proliferate popular music and dance. Regaeton, Salsa, Cumbia, Bachata, Merengue and all popular Latin music have at its core influence of African and Afro-Cuban sounds. Ife Milligan, a Chesapeake resident, brings to the area Afro-Cuban culture, wisdom and dance. Milligan is no novice at her art form, with 11 years devoted to learning and performing. Her most recent performance was at the Mambo Room in Norfolk. Where dressed in white she emulated the wind as she danced for Oya the Spirit of the Wind. Milligan educated the spectators “ Oya is the spirit of the wind. You will see me demonstrate her as the wind picks up and becomes a hurricane.” It is said that Oya manifests in the form as sudden and drastic change or strong storms. The beauty in Milligan’s demonstration is her ability to captivate onlookers. Her one woman show left the crowd breathless and in awe of her interpretation. Milligan’s next Afro-Cuban workshop will be at the, Mambo Room 2200 Colonial Avenue in Norfolk on Saturday, September 13, 2008 from 3pm –5pm. The workshop welcomes beginners and novice dancers alike. The only requirement is to bring positive energy and comfortable clothing. |
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