Workshop with Newton Moraes: Dances of the Orixás from Nação (Batuque), Rio Grande do Sul
Saturday, June 14th | 55 W 8th Ave, Vancouver | 11am-1pm
Live atabaque + percussion by Leo

In this unique workshop, Newton Moraes will introduce participants to selected dances of the Orixás from the Afro-Brazilian tradition of Nação (Batuque), native to Rio Grande do Sul. The workshop will explore movements associated with a range of Orixás—from Bará to Oxalá—while offering cultural and historical context about their meanings and spiritual significance.

Participants will engage with traditional movement vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual narratives embedded in the dances. Newton will also share personal insights into how Afro-Brazilian spirituality has shaped his life and creative process.

Raised in the Catholic tradition, Newton found a more affirming and inclusive spiritual path through Afro-Brazilian practices after coming out as a gay man. This transformation has profoundly influenced his identity and artistic expression. Today, he weaves elements of this spiritual connection into his choreography, creating works that are deeply personal, resonant, and transformative.

This workshop is an invitation to explore the intersection of dance, identity, and spirituality through the lens of one of Canada’s most distinctive voices in contemporary dance.