The morning started in an energizing and celebratory way. Muscles and knowledge about dances with African roots were strengthened, and the soul was renewed to the sound of Djembe, Kenkeni, Sangban, Dunun, Balafon and Guitar. Rita Santos coordinated the Workshop, teaching not only the steps, but also their symbolic value. Armando Santos, Paulo Martinez, Pedro Amaro and Nuno Presa, from Madandza, added musicality to the beauty of the moment, which left goose bumps.
The afternoon workshop dedicated to Portuguese and Galician dances was the responsibility of Montse Rivera, but the trainer couldn’t resist inviting her friend and equally talented dancer, Mercedes Prieto, to help her. Together they taught some of the dances for the night’s ball, but not all of them, reserving some surprises for this one.
The Folk Dance was a fun debut. It was a completely new dance called “Foliada Asalto”, which PESDELAN prepared especially for the Dance Festival, but which they hope to take to more Folk Festivals. The singer Icia Varela, the instrumentalists Ramón do Pico (percussion), Xiao Berlai (Mandolina) and Fran Barcia (Accordion) and the leaders Mercedes Prieto and Montse Rivera, got everyone dancing.
The ball also featured an unexpected visit from the dancer and musician Sergio Cobos, who collaborated with the two “in charge” in the successful conduct of the Ball. Sergio Cobos is the author of the book “Bailegramas”, a fundamental publication for the memory, knowledge and dissemination of traditional choreographic heritage, among other publications.
At the end of the dance, AGFAM announced the last date of this edition (April 27th) whose program will be announced shortly.
Please remember that the Dance Festival is organized by Viana do Castelo City Council, AGFAM – Association of Folkloric Groups of Alto Minho and Casino Afifense, with the support of the INATEL Foundation.
