Caribbean vibes with Kizomba UK
Left to right: Iris de Brito, Danilo, JV
Salsa seems to have been the dance craze of the past decade, taking London by storm, with classes and parties sprouting all over the capital. Samba, the dance from Brazil, was a strong contender and found home in the Guanabara in Covent Garden. Quietly but steadily, kizomba, a dance originating from Africa, has been making its mark too. And it’s down to the work of passionate people such as Kizomba UK, promoters of Afro-Latin cultural events in London and around the UK.
Kizomba, is “the first dance” two time UK Salsa champion Iris de Brito has learned: “Kizomba is originally from Angola and it is danced with a partner. It’s a mix between semba from Angola and French zouk. When I was growing up only Angolans would dance it, now, Portuguese do it, most Palop countries (African countries that speak Portuguese) and the rest of Europe is catching on”.
Kizomba is also a music genre, a sensuous sound derived from zouk, a music style from the French Caribbean islands. The parties organised by Kizomba UK are an energetic mix of kizomba, livened up with zouk, kuduro (Angola), funana (Cape verde), coupe-decale (Ivory Coast) and r&b. The nights gather “people from everywhere, from Ghana to Malaysia, anyone who enjoys the music is made to feel welcome.” Newcomers can also attend an introduction class before each party, in order to learn the few essential steps that they will be able to practise all night. As the promoters state: “It’s all positive vibes. It’s about feeling good, having a laugh, meeting people. Almost like a massive house party. I think that’s what people like the most at Kizomba UK parties. “
This New Year’s Eve, Kizomba UK are organising a Grand Africa Ball, that should deliver the good vibes and fun atmosphere they are renowned for. JV, Iris and Danilo will be in the crowd, dazzling a few people or two with their skills. Asked where they would be if they were not throwing this NYE bash, they give an answer that matches the spirit of their parties: “Catching good vibes with the rest of Kizomba UK team, our family and closest friends, at home!”
More details about the Grand African Ball on New Year’s Eve + check our COMPETITIONS page WIN FREE ENTRY for 2 people!
For info on events like this, sign up to our newsletter
* Do you love kizomba, semba or kuduro? Share your passion with us: use the form below and leave a comment *
Just want to say Kizomba UK parties rock! the atmosphere is lively and welcoming and it’s a great environment to meet new people. Check it out people!
Well as a Portuguese speaking person (Capeverdean) I grew up within this Kizomba environment in Lisbon – Portugal. My intention is not to dispute the origins of the genre or anything like that but I believe it worth revising some affirmation that in my opinion it’s not correct. But, that will probably take us to the Chicken and egg issue which one came first…anyway perhaps it should go to table for discussion…
Aida Lomba