Alliance Française de Lagos, SPAN celebrates International Day of Dance — Lifestyle — Headline News – Nigeria and World News
Alliance Française de Lagos, Nigeria’s French cultural center, in collaboration with the Performing Arts Society of Nigeria (SPAN), celebrated the 2024 International Day of Dance and provided opportunities for aspiring dancers. The event, which was held at the Mike Adenuga Center in Ikoyi on April 28, showcased energetic Afro-hip-hop moves.
Alliance Française de Lagos, Nigeria’s French cultural center, in collaboration with the Performing Arts Society of Nigeria (SPAN), celebrated the 2024 International Day of Dance and provided opportunities for aspiring dancers.
Held on April 28 at the Mike Adenuga Center in Ikoyi, the event featured energetic Afro-hip hop moves from StarKids Dance Group and graceful ballet performances from Brian and Andrea, Monica and Ilya. was unveiled.
Rocking Mike, Princess, SPAN Dance Group, and Samson Bethel performed rocking, contemporary, and Afro house, and Hilary Jackson paid homage to Michael Jackson. Faculty of Breaks, Space Unlimited, Ofuobi and Footprints of David also brought to life, showcasing a variety of mesmerizing Nigerian and international dance forms.
In her opening remarks, Leticia Bertrand, Chairperson of the African Artificial Intelligence Empowerment Foundation, representing SPAN Founder Sarah Boulos, noted the unifying power of dance and its ability to transcend cultures and generations.
“This day is a testament to the power of dance to unite us across cultures, borders and generations. Dance is more than movement. It is a language, a form of expression, a way of life. It has the power to evoke emotion, tell a story and bring people together,” she said.
“Nigeria is blessed with a rich cultural heritage, and dance plays an important role in our traditions and customs. From the graceful movements of Bata dance to the energetic rhythms of Afrobeats, our dances are recognized around the world. Celebrating Dance Day reflects our history, our people, and our resilience.”
Mr. Bertrand acknowledged the dedication and passion of dancers and instructors who worked tirelessly to keep dance culture alive, saying, “Let us continue to support and celebrate dancers, choreographers, and the entire dance community.'' Let's use dance as a tool for change, cultural exchange, and artistic expression.”
Precious Nador, marketing executive at the Alliance Française de Lagos, said the partnership with SPAN, supported by the French Embassy, will help up-and-coming dancers showcase their work to a wide audience, including French networks and the Nigerian community. He said it provided him with a platform to showcase his skills.
“Dance is now more than just a hobby in this country. It is also a business means of earning income. For example, some people may not be able to obtain their contact information on their own, but by using our platform, you can reach out to your target audience. can be contacted.
“This puts them in a position to be invited to perform at events, whether in Nigeria or France. We have the contacts to help them grow. There will also be competitions and cultural exchanges,” Nadol added.
Among the talented dancers who dazzled the show was Olanipekun Yemi Tope, a 14-year-old high school senior who said dance is his life and inspiration. “This is her second time participating in World Dance Day here and it's encouraging. Seeing the other dancers and what they're doing. There's always so much to learn. It makes me realize.”
Giving encouragement to those who don't fully understand dance, Olanipekun said, “The key is love. If so, keep doing it. Don't compare yourself to others and get discouraged. Just keep pushing yourself forward.”
The Dance Day celebrations didn't end on stage, with a section where audience members of all ages and experience levels could freestyle and experience the joy of dance. The energy in the room was electric as attendees celebrated their love of dance in unique ways.
AF Lagos Director Marc Brevant was also present. board member Austin Eymanc; Cultural Coordinator, Radunni Lambo. Mr. Chijindu Chize, Head of SPAN Dance Department. Temitayo Ajiboye, Communications Manager. Andre Okafor, USAID Youth Powered Ecosystem Private Sector Engagement Manager for Urban Youth Health Promotion, et al.
Source: guardian.ng