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Debuting in
the 2006 Carnaval Parade
Some contingents are making their appearance for the first time.
Among them is Maracatu Nação Casa Real Cazadero, organized
by Beto Guimarães, and Derek Wright. Derek is the director
of Bateria Lucha (an Oakland-based Brazilian percussion
ensemble) Beto is one of the principal dancers of Ginga Brazil,
originally from Olinda (one of the cultural capitals of Pernambuco). He
is also an afro-brazilian dance instructor and key member of the dance
faculty at the California Brazil Camp. They are presenting
the music and dance of Maracatu. This extremely funky and joyous rhythm
has been used for hundreds of years during Carnaval in the northeastern
Brazilian state of Pernambuco to mock the colonial royal court, to honor
the Orixas, and to celebrate emancipation. The dance movements enact the
coronation of the King of Congo, to respect the African heritage of the
inhabitants of Pernambuco. However, the coronation is done in a style
mocking the pomp and self-importance of the Portuguese royal court.
Additionally, the dance is used to honor the Orixas, drawing from
elements of Candomble dance and other Afro-Brazilian dance forms related
to the Orixas. Finally, the dance movements represent the waves of the
ocean. Waves are very important symbols in maracatu, both in the dance
and in the song lyrics. Olinda and Recife are both coastal cities, and
the Africans who were enslaved and brought to Pernambuco spent months
aboard slave ships, being subjected to the transatlantic voyage against
their will. (The tradition goes back to the 17th century, according to
www.recifeguide.com/culture/maracatu) "We'll also be performing all
spring to spread interest in Maracatu and other rhythms from Pernambuco
and Brazil such as Afoxé (also known as Ijexá)."
www.maracatucazadero.org
Debuting in
the 2006 Carnaval Parade
Kip Farris Memorial Dream, "Angels and Demons
at Play" is a tribute to artist and parade float designer Kip
Farris [1944-2005]. The contingent leader, Mondo Jud Hart, says
"between 1984 and February 2003, in Denver, San Francisco, and
Minneapolis-St. Paul, I built hundreds of parade floats with Kip
Farris. We worked with crews of 5-20 people depending on the number
of floats, and the budget. He started 'The Float Works' in 1983 in
Denver - our hometown. We were friends and collaborators for thirty plus
years. Kip was 'The Floatmeister'. I still feel we built some of the
best floats ever for San Francisco Carnaval; especially between
1991-1997. Adding their considerable charisma to the contingent will be
Carnaval's original King and Queen, Michael Jenkins, and
Sweetwyne Barrow." who still believe the the Kip Farris-designed
float for Michael and Sweetwyne, a beautiful double-long, golden
float "pulled"by giant bronze horses was Kip's best Royal carriage ever. Kip's contingent,
Batu Pitu is semi-legendary, as is Kip's
sometime curmudgeonly personality. All to say, this will be my first
time as a contingent leader[on top of designing & building the float as
shown at the website]. If things go well, I'm considering doing
something annually for SF Carnaval centered around float building [+
contingent], inspired by Kip Farris' 'The Float Works'." For now - it's
just a twinkle in his eye. Stay tuned!
Carnaval veteran Louise Joanes, often found performing with Fogo
na Roupa has stepped up to become both dance and bateria director. She
will be assisted by teachers Ann Miller [art], and Diana
Gutierrez [dance] from James Denman Middle School
cultural arts program
http://web.mac.com/jabbo1st
Debuting in
the 2006 Carnaval Parade
Mission Arts & Performance Project "is a collaboration
between visual artists, musicians, poets and performers. The MAPP puts
art and performance on the street level by using alternative spaces such
as private garages, basements, and studios. It’s a block party of the
arts for inspiring in ourselves, and others, the desire for a creative
existence, an ever widening experience of life. By transforming garages
and backyards into mini-galleries, MAPP shows how ordinary spaces can be
made extra-ordinary to bring people together to share in a diverse
experience of fine art and performance. The garages, as they are
unpretentious and open to the street, pose the possibility of exposing
the arts to a lot of folks who might not ever enter a gallery or
theater. This process helps take the art from the margins of our
communities to where it may come to be more widely seen and understood
as a vibrant and vital force necessary to the health of our society."
Having read that, I bet you wonder how they will transform themselves
into contingent #59. I do too! The sky's the limit.
www.redpoppyarthouse.org
Debuting in
the 2006 Carnaval ParadeMission Housing Development Corporation
has been in Carnaval twice before, but not since the early 80's. Welcome
back!!
They will be expressing the power of music and dance to revive the human
spirit, the Phoenix rising from ashes. "Rebirth and Resilience in the
Wake of Tragedy", a particularly germane topic since this is the
centennial of the great earthquake of "06. In the wake of Hurricane
Katrina, New Orleans is struggling to rebuild. Their own project is
Valencia Gardens, a symbol of renewal to the Mission Community. Their
participation in Carnaval is the kick-off event to celebrate the
re-opening of Valencia Garden, of renewal for returning families and new
beginnings for new tenants. As part of their theme of renewal,[Valencia
Gardens for example], they are using a lovely butterfly motif and the
flame colors of the Phoenix.
www.missionhousing.org
 The illustrious Ramon Ramos Alayo is the director of dance; the
choreography will be influenced by the traditions of the east coast of
Cuba. This includes the practice of interaction between the musicians
and dancers, with the musicians circulating among the dancers during the
parade. Costumes will be red, signifying flames, and white and green
signifying renewal and growth after destruction.
www.dancemission.com/teacher_bios.html
Mas Makers Massive, one of the original
Carnaval contingents, is directed by Stephen Tiffenson, who gives
110% to his contingent. He works hand in hand with the project director,
Colleen Tiffenson. Stephen keeps it authentic, so that the
community can experience
 the rich culture of Trinidad and Tobago. He
points out that Carnival is an all-year endeavor. A theme must be chosen
after careful research; costumes designed and built, float designed and
built, budget calculated, music organized; all this takes time and
skill. Everyone has to come together, and at Mas Makers, everyone does.
One of the things I admire the most, is the degree of commitment to the
youth of Oakland. Through various schools, they nurture their cultural
needs, and keep the carnival legacy alive. Their efforts have been
important to huge numbers of individual children over the years. As a
matter of fact Sistas-wit-Style, started here.
Every year, Mas Makers features a different aspect of Carnival. This
year, the focus is on traditional characters, "Canboulay" costumes,
drawing on the historical confrontation by former slaves and colonial
authorities that defined the turbulent origins of Carnival in Trinidad.
These characters include stick fighters, Jamette, Baby Doll, white elite
who dressed as their slaves, and freed slaves depicting costumes that
mocked their former owners. The music, by JMC 3veni direct from
Trinidad, is associated with Chutney Soca, which is a blend of calypso
and rhythm & blues, played on East Indian instruments. They are having a
big calypso competition and Fete presenting JMC 3veni at 525 Harrison
St, San Francisco on Saturday, May 27; all are invited.
www.carnavalsf.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=81&Itemid=229
Mo' Love of Steelband Oakland is committed to building self
esteem through music, dance and art; developing and enriching Oakland's
youth. La Mantia, the director, is someone who walks the walk.
This year, she says, "Shaka Zulu, native New Orleans STILTWALKER
will be joinin' us in da' road! 12' tall!" Wilfred Mark, director of
Dance Kaiso, will also be joining this year.
The costume is Sailor, which is a traditional character in Trinidad.
Sailor bands use the basic white sailor outfit as a canvas on which to
paint/ design any thought or feeling.Whether playing Admiral or swab or
fantasy sailor- all are free to express themselves. Also, these sailors
may encounter others in their travels to diverse cultures: princess from
Siam or China, maybe pirates...
www.steelbandoakland.com
Sambão Para o Povo This year will mark their 14th year, as
they celebrate their 2006 theme "Carnaval é um Sonho Real -
Carnaval is a Dream Come True". Sambão honors the carnaval
traditions of
 Rio de Janeiro and Salvador Bahia, Brazil, Original
choreography will be presented, however, the traditional and ancient
movement known as "SAMBA" is always featured. Costumes will include
flying fairies, fairy godmothers, forest beings, and a Bateria of
warriors. Silicon Valley's Samba School is dedicated to community
participation. Sambão consists of many dancers and musicians that
perform the traditional Brazilian inspired movements and percussive
sounds.
www.musicishealing.com/sambao
SambAsia is the only samba school of its kind
integrating Brazilian Samba and Japanese Taiko percussion with Japanese
Folk and Modern Dance. This year, they are adding Samba Bahia carnaval
music and dance, and Korean Pung'mul, whose drummers dance while they
play. They have been top prize winners in the 3 years of participation
in Carnaval San Francisco's Grand Parade.
The SambAsia colors, red and yellow/gold, represent the colors of Chango
and Osum, are also associated with the Chinese Five Elements, and
signify good fortune and positive energy in many Asian communities.
SambAsia functions as a community music and dance ensemble that acts as
a real means of building cultural bridges between the many diverse
communities of the Bay Area across
generational lines. Escola de
SambAsia is modeled after the samba school community ensembles of Rio de
Janeiro. The escolas are the centerpiece of the neighborhood community
and serve as the hub of social activity representing strong neighborhood
pride, support and commitment in the face of economic and
socio-political hardship.
Jimmy Biala, the director, says this: "Carnaval represents the pinnacle
of our annual performing season. We bring all of our different dance and
music sections into one place to celebrate our hard work and life
together. I feel the San Francisco Carnaval is a very unique blessing to
the communities here in San Francisco and to the Bay Area and beyond. In
turn I am very proud for all that SambAsia brings to the San Francisco
Carnaval. People are very receptive to our ensemble and recognize
SambAsia is something very unique in combining Brazilian music and dance
traditions with the folk and festival music and dance traditions of
Asia. I really do not think there is an ensemble like ours anywhere in
the world!"
Jimmy started playing drums when he was seven years old. He played
mostly jazz and popular music on drum set until at age 30 he decided to
start studying Cuban music. He went to Cuba to study at the University
of Matanzas with master musicians and dancers there, and that experience
opened new doors for him in terms of wanting to study more and more.
Eventually he made his way to Brasil. He studied in Rio de Janeiro,
Salvador, Bahia and also went researching to meet a Taiko sensei
(teacher) in Sao Paulo. He has also studied the Kulintang gong music of
the Phillipines and the music of the Ewe people of Ghana, Taiko drumming
of Japan and Pung'mul drumming from Korea. At present, he has started a
teaching residency in Taiwan. He has started establishing a sister
SambAsia escola in Shijhih City, Taiwan. Jimmy will be in Taiwan again
from June 2006 to January 2007 working hard to bring a contingent of
drummers and dancers from there to the 2007 San Francisco Carnaval.
Everyday he is inspired by all of what he's learned from his teachers
and students from all parts of the world that he has been. He hopes to
continue to respectfully bring all of their blessings to the community
and to the San Francisco Carnaval for many years.
www.sambasia.com
Jaime Martinez' Latin American Workout is going to
showcase The City By The Bay with the skyline of SF. There will be
people dancing in beautiful gold, red and white costumes. Jaime is one
of our cherished Kings of Carnaval, and he appreciates the artistry of
Carnaval. When he envisions something, he wants to make it exactly the
way he sees it, to achieve his dream. He's a perfectionist. It gives him
motivation; he creates. He expresses an idea and puts it together. It's
good to spend energy on that. He pioneered the concept of exercising to
Latin rhythms. He is the owner of Latin American Workout, and is
celebrating its 16th year. If you want a good, fun workout, to
absolutely "off the hook" music, join his classes. Besides LAW, he
teaches Salsa and Merengue at Mission Cultural Center.
Growing up in El Salvador, he talks about a famous carnaval in San
Miguel. "Everything is equal in Carnaval. On this occasion there is no
difference between rich and poor. The streets are for everybody.
Carnaval is not just bikinis and feathers. It is a cultural event. It
promotes enjoying your life, and having fun. It's a family affair."
Carnaval has changed his life by allowing him to express his creative
side. Although he has a dance company, he doesn't do too many shows. His
big event is Carnaval. The shock comes at the end; all that work,
effort, realizing the dream, and then it ends so quickly!
www.latinamericanworkout.com
Fogo Na Roupa has been a major Carnaval Grand Prize Winner
and has received awards in numerous parades over the past 17 years,
including San Francisco's Chinese New Year and Cinco de Mayo Parades.
Fogo Na Roupa means "Clothes On Fire", and it is symbolic of the hot
energy generated by the innovative rhythms and infectious dance moves.
Fogo Na Roupa strives to combine the photos/10pics/giant92.jpg
community's raw spirit with the technical expertise of its Founder and
Artistic Director, Carlos Aceituno. As Artistic Director, Carlos
shares with the group his substantial experience in the areas of music,
dance and performance, including Latin, Afro-Brazilian, Jazz, Modern,
and African. He also teaches Capoeira, and includes this art in many of
Fogo's shows. Last year, when I congratulated him on winning the
Carnaval San Francisco Grand Prize, I asked him about it. He said that
although he is the director, he's learned to let go and allow other
people to display their own talents in their own ways. What he does is
put it all together and make it greater than the sum of its parts.
That's part of his brilliance.
Regina Calloway brings to Fogo a unique history of research and
expertise in African dance and drum culture. She a director,
coordinator, scholar, and instructor.
Member of Fogo are encouraged to train and educate themselves in
Brazilian culture. Yearly study tours to Brazil are very popular as a
way to immerse themselves in the culture, music, and dance. Fogo offers
classes almost every day of the year, and as soon as Carnaval is over,
Fogo starts practicing for the next one; the fire never goes out!
www.gofogo.com [Click YuYi to
go YaYa]
Fogo na Roupa 2006 by
Sarah
Breed
There will be a group representing the
California Soccer
Association North, which is "the administrative body overseeing
all affiliated adult soccer leagues in Northern California, affiliated
to USASA, USSF, and FIFA. CSA-N was established in 1902 and has served
the adult soccer community continuously since then, through both world
wars and through both "police actions". CSA-N has approximately 18,000
members. We provide the adult soccer community with team and player
registration, coaching instruction and instruction of referees." They
will be joined by Mission High School.
www.california-soccer-assn-north.net
Tales of the Seven Seas is a "merry band o' sea
wretches....loathesome pirates, swashbucklers and buccaneers" who show
up, complete with ship, every year.
www.talesofthesevenseas.com
Super Sonic Samba School The Super Sonic Samba School was
founded in San Diego, California in 1990. The group plays traditional
Samba rhythms of Brazil, featuring live percussionists and dancers. The
Super Sonic Samba School performs a range of styles: from the Rio de
Janeiro carnaval marching drums of Samba Enredo, to the jamming Samba
Reggae of and the northeast. They have joined us here in San Francisco
for many years.
Super Sonic's website, www.sssamba.org
gets the prize for the most amusing ad for their CD:
· Are you tired of having a dozen percussionists in your living room
every night, just so you can listen to great samba music?
· Are you tired of having to explain the thunderous drums and flashy
outfits to the police at your door over and over?
Now, through the miracle of modern technology,
you too can enjoy the samba, and still have food in your pantry the next
morning.
West Coast Lion Dance Troupe, Located in Daly City, was
formed in 1988. They will be adding their visual and auditory excitement
to the Grand Parade again this year. The main goal of the West Coast
Lion Dance Troupe is to pass on the traditional art of Chinese lion
dancing, along with the culture and customs that makes up lion dancing.
Although more is lost with each generation, we must remember that the
youth of today are going to be the adults of tomorrow. It is a duty of
the lion dance troupe to keep this part of the Chinese culture alive so
it will not be lost to the future. The main goal of the West Coast Lion
Dance Troupe is to see that this particular tradition and subculture
thrives, because if we do not, then who will? Lion dancing helps
self-esteem and allows pride in heritage. The current age range of the
West Coast Lion Dance Troupe is 5 years old and up.
www.westcoastlions.net
3NI Productions, based on the Trinidad and Tobago
Carnival, was formed in 2001 to enhance LA Carnival. Each year, they
produce new costumes with a King and Queen (large pieces), and this
year, they will join us for the third time, bringing dozens of Caribbean
dancers. The theme is "in Olden Days of Magic," and the Queen will wear
white, symbol of Benevolent magic, while the King will symbolize black
magic. The costumes are in the style of the olden days. Music is
recorded.
They have free-spirited dancing after a 2-minute choreography piece. The
choreography draws on the Kumina traditions of Jamaica. According to
Kesi Asher of the Jamaica Gleaner, "Kumina features flat-footed
inching of the feet (or the kongo step), a steady, but often subtle,
forward-thrusting of the hip with the rib cage and arms moving against
the hip, followed by wild spins and sudden breaks, signaled by the lead
drum. The dominant elements of kumina are dance, music, spirit
possession, healing and the use of herbs. The drums used in the dance
are the kbandu, which provides the basic rhythms, and playing cast, the
lead drum. These go together with candles, graters, shakas and catta
sticks, played on the back of the drum. There are Congolese words in
some of the kumina songs performed in Jamaica."
The African Outlet, located at 524 Octavia, celebrates the 9th
year of participation in Carnaval SF. The store has a wonderful and
authentic collection of African items and ambience. They will be playing
lively West African recorded music, and also have a contingent of
drummers, Igba Muo, and children dancers, Bama-ya Kongo.
Children from Kipp Bayview Charter Academy will also be
joining African Outlet. Leading the contingent are the Ancestors, making
the connection between the spiritual world and the present time. Anyone
who has seen these entities will realize that they are much more than
just a person wearing a costume. They are unforgettable spirits, and for
me personally, one of the high points of the parade.
It takes a village to raise a child-- to support each youth in
confronting his/her dreams, whether they be confusing, enlightening or
prophetic. The Spirits enable the dreams; the village, guided by its
ancestors, enable the youth to find their paths from dream to reality.
The costumes you will see on the street reflect the role of those who
are responsible for guiding a child through his dreams: the elders, kin,
the ancestors, native doctors, and protective spirits. The foundations
for the choreography lies in traditions rooted in Ghana, Nigeria, and
Congo.
The African Outlet had paraded with Oya Nike and the
Dancers of the
Mystic Sun, www.mysticsun.com ,
for many years, and this will be the first year they appear on their
own. www.theafricanoutlet.net
Asociacion Mayab organized their first contingent of
Yucatec Maya in 2005 with El Tecolote. The community was so excited to
participate, that planning began for a solo contingent, this time with a
float, traditional music and dance. The float is a replica of the Mayan
ruins of Chichen Itza in Yucatan. The children, wearing traditional
Mayan dress, will be dancing the Jarana. This dance has roots in
Spanish, Maya, Cuban, and Colombian music and illustrates the fusion of
old and new world culture. Their theme is "Remembering our Past
and Living our Present".
 Association of Colombian Americans--ACOAM,
is ready to salute and show proudly their heritage and African
roots, as seen through rhythm, dance and joyfulness. The Carnaval in
Colombia dates back nearly 400 years, and became an official event
some 150 years ago, according to an article in the Boston Globe.
When you see this contingent, you will feel the magnitude of these
years of history.
Aluna (www.alunaband.com
) is playing live music: cumbia, garabato, porro and vallenato. This
will be the 4th year for ACOAM in our Carnaval, and they not only
have become an important presence in the King & Queen Contest (held
annually in April), but also, the spontaneous outburst of beautiful
music that occurred at the 2005 K&Q will always be remembered. True
carnaval spirit!
The Colombians are doing something really fun with their float!
It represents that archetype of transport in latin america [and
probably the rest of the third world], the bus retired from duty
elsewhere [probably as a school bus in the U.S.], now transporting
people, livestock, farm goods, etc. in rural areas. The Colombianos
call it a "Chiva"
ACOAM is aware of the diversity of cultures in
Colombia, and strives for the unity and integration of the Colombian
community. acoam.org
Aquarela Brazilian Dance Ensemble has as its theme:
"Era Uma Vez....", combining imagination and storytelling with
passion and excitement. They plan to bring legendary characters to life
with the rich traditions of Brazilian samba music and dance.
Maria Souza, Aquarela's director, first experienced Carnaval in
her home town in Minas Gerais, Brazil, when she was 8 years old. That
was a great experience, all family; cousins, brothers, mom, and she was
dressed in a blue costume with glitter and sequins on the skirt.
Come
parade with the Award winning Aquarela Samba School and
Carnaval Queens Micaela (2004),
Iya (2003),
Silvana (1996) & Maria (1995) &
King Carlos (2000)! |
The
music was called "Marcha". It had lots of instruments like flute,
saxaphone, and trombone. Nowadays her favorite part of Carnaval isn't
just the parade. It's getting ready. Thinking about the costume design,
concentrating, getting excited. Rehearsals. Waiting for the parade to
 start. Then, dancing for the whole thing! Even with the inevitable
problems, it's as though nothing happened; only fun. So enjoyable, but
over too soon.
She feels that her contingent is very professional, but at the same
time, it's like an extended family. The daughters and sons of the
contingent have become participants, and bring that youthful excitement
every year. Her focus is to do her thing, make her people happy, and
make their dreams come true. She shows San Francisco what the true Rio
de Janeiro has about Carnaval. It's an authentic experience including
the float, the music, and dance routine. Maria herself is not only is
one of the Carnaval Queens, but she has the most Queens and Kings of
Carnaval in her contingent. It is the Royal Family.
www.aquarela.com
Baby Buggy Brigade was created by two
Carnaval veterans that did not want to give up Carnaval after they
started their families. Artistic Director Milanda Moore (a
Carnaval Queen) and Designer Nancy Sabin-Hinds continue the tradition
with their children. They started in 2002, and want people to know that Carnaval is a family tradition that is passed down from generation to
generation. The group will be joining Grand Marshall Dora the Explorer
this year.
LIFE IS NOT
A SPECTATOR SPORT!
Don't let the parade pass you by this year |
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|
Dandara
and Tambores do Brasil the hardest working gal on the streets
of San Francisco |
Ginga Brazil, BrasArte, Conceição
Damasceno's contingent, has been a participant for many years. Brasarte is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the
traditional dance and music of Brazil and to developing opportunities
for cultural exchange between dancers and musicians of all ages from
Brazil and theUnited States. Conceição is a professional dancer,
teacher and choreographer, and the founder and president. Over the years
she has been instrumental in bringing top talent to the Bay Area.
Classes are taught at World Dance Center in Berkeley.
www.brasarte.com
MaraReggae is an award-winning contingent going
on its 11th year.
The theme is this: "Each one of us is born into this world with a divine
mission. The soul is the inner fire that gives us warmth both to our
worlds and to our hearts. It is a creative power, a passion and a
guiding force. Our presentation honors the 'Sacred Fire' in all of us
and the passions and dreams of our childhood." The band MaraReggae has
created a universal style of World music, where everyone, young and old,
can be
inspired to dance and express themselves.
The music is directed by Brazil-born Wilson Low, and can be described as
a magical blending of Brazilian roots with jazz, funk and “a
whole-lot-of-soul.”Songs are original compositions, and traditional
Brazilian music is performed in Portuguese and English. Mestre Low has
also created capoeira/dance programs for Children in public and private
schools throughout the Bay Area. His special mission is working with
children of all ages to learn the beauty, discipline and cultural
respect and traditions of Brazilian capoeira. He describes the various
types of Carnaval in Brazil. One kind is in the streets. It's so wild,
that it would never happen here in the USA; the laws here would never
allow it. People hang off trucks and busses. They throw water at each
other, paint their skin, go with few clothes, honk, walk around with
drinks all day long, make fun of famous people, and even cross-dress.
Another kind is a parade. People pay to watch; it's a show. An example
of this is the Sambodromo in Rio. The third kind is inside a club. It's
an all-night affair. People come in bikinis, and act sexy and
crazy.There is even a fourth kind, in smaller cities; different again.
Rhonda Stagnaro Low, artistic director, has had a passion for
Brazilian dance and music since 1986. She has studied, performed and
taught for 20 years. Rhonda feels that Carnaval changes the individuals
who participate. There is a challenge to be creative, and she meets that
challenge head on. Over the course of each year, she envisions and
brings a new vision to San Francisco. As the years have gone by, there
is a real progression of her themes. "We are movement!" At the beginning
of the season, people in MaraReggae draw a card. Each character is
developed. The innovative spirit permeates every participant.
Rhonda and Wilson look forward to sharing their community and energy
with the people of San Francisco, and say: Don't let the parade pass you
by!!!! www.marareggae.com
Banda Remelexo was started in 2004 by
Julio Remelexo. Originally from Salvador, Brazil; his mother was a
singer of the group, Ile Aiye. By the time he was 17, he
was a percussionist with Banda Aiye, and in the ensuing years, toured
Brazil, Europe and the United States with them. Invited to the US on a
cultural exchange by Brasarte, Julio taught workshops, and subsequently
created a new band of women playing percussion, Grupo Remelexo. With
this group, Julio Remelexo is presenting the heart of the afro-based
groups of Brazil to us. He is the singer, percussionist, composer, and
director. The music, Brazilian traditional and popular, is about the
state of the world today and the hope for peace.
They perform every 3rd Thursday at Club Lamia, 3910 Geary Blvd.
Not only does their sound rock, but also the visual show: the drummers
dance as well!
check:
bandaremelexo.com
Rara Tou Limen, named after Rara, a
musical band on foot, a moving community festival and celebration of
Haitian pride; Limen - [lee-may] means light, bright, to shine; under
the direction of Portsha Jefferson, is a Karnaval group proudly
entering its second year of representing Haiti in San Francisco's
Carnaval festivities. "In the Spirit of our Ancestors" Rebirth, Rebuild,
Reconnect.
|
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Portsha Jefferson |
This year we are dedicating our piece to the Hurricane
Katrina victims in New Orleans by having a Mardi Gras style presentation
with a Haitian twist, by also honoring Gede. The Gede family, spiritual
entities of life and death in the Haitian Vodun tradition, play a vital
role in the life of the people and also represent a crucial link to the
ancestors. The colors are black, purple, and white or silver. The
orchestra consists of goat skin drums, bamboo tubes, metal horns, bells,
whistles, conch shells, and tcha-tchas, accompanied by festive songs
paying tribute to Gede and all of our ancestral spirits.
"We invite you to join is in the upcoming festivities!! Master Dance
Classes by special guest teachers from NYC! Nadia Dieudonne & Peniel
Guerrier May 25 Oakland, May 26 San Francisco. Also a benefit party
featuring DJ Panama. May 26th" Please check the website for details
Rara Tou Limen's advisor, Blanche Brown, will be choreographing a
section. As far as choreography, she's brilliant. She believes that
short and simple is better; otherwise, you will get tired, and you will
forget the steps. If it's simple, it's possible to play with the
audience. "When you dance," she says, " you don't just dance for
yourself, but for everybody else too. That's part of Haitian culture."
She focuses on spaces, and tries to convey strong emotion. She always
moves in a forward direction. She allows improvisation in her
choreography, and believe me, that makes it fun. Even if you don't know
how to improvise, it's constantly amusing to watch the antics of those
who do.
The last year that I participated in her group, she had 3 signals. One
whistle blow was the slow choreography. Two whistles was the dancing
while not moving forward, and there was lots of interaction with the
audience, and 3 whistles was for the faster clip. There was no rushing,
and no standing around. No matter what our speed, we were looking good!
It was no trouble to keep up, and the variation in tempo made it
interesting. www.raratoulimen.com
Bay Area Boriquas will present Bomba, a traditional form of Puerto Rican
dance that has been passed on from generation to generation. It is
improvisational; the dancer, surrounded by all the other dancers
 and
drummers in a traditional circle, will make moves that are marked, or
sounded by the drum designated to do that. Meanwhile there is call and
response singing, which interrelates with the dancing and drumming. It
is the opposite of the way dancing is usually done. Rather than hearing
and responding to the beat, the dancer directs the drummer, and the
drummer hears it and executes it.
Their theme is "Unity Across Generations"..
www.musicbeat.org
Proyeccion Folklorica Guatemalteca Xelaju is a group which was created
with the idea of promoting and showing Guatemala's culture and
traditions through dance. They represent the Maya/ Quiche culture of
native people of Guatemala. The costumes are handmade, and take 3-6
months to finish one. They are made of bright colors, each color
represents a different town. Along with their stunning costumes, is live
Marimba music.
Besides Carnaval San Francisco, they perform their folkloric dances at
schools, churches, festivals and other events. PFG Xelaju does
charitable works all year around. They give to the community, in the
name of Jesus. Presently, they are in the process of raising money for
people in Guatemala who lost their homes in the hurricane last year, and
are still homeless. They work with Habitat, and donate their time to
help. Oscar Gonzalez, who is the director of the Guatemalan group PFG
Xelaju, never participated in Carnaval until his performing group was
invited to join us a few years ago. He likes everything about Carnaval:
the meetings, the opportunity to help out, and especially the parade
itself. "I hope everybody has as much fun as we do", he says. He
appreciates all the work done by the Carnaval committees and volunteers
who make it happen. He volunteers at a school in San Mateo. His motto?
Never say No.
Quimbanda Grupo Carnavalesco was founded in 2002 by
Master Percussionist and Brazilian native, Gamo Da Paz. As the
Director of Quimbanda, Gamo created the first all-women Brazilian
Drumming Ensemble or Bateria, which now includes men as well. Their
music is incredible! This year, Quimbanda will pay homage to Obatala/
Oshala, the king of all Orishas, whose followers are considered his
children. Because this year's Carnaval theme refers to children,
Quimbanda finds it fitting to incorporate many children in its group of
paraders as representations of followers of Obatala. Costumes and float
will be white and silver, representing purity, cleanliness and peace.
www.gamodapaz.com
Hot Pink Feathers & Blue Bone Express is
a combination performing group with brass band. In February of 2005, Hot
Pink Feathers, which does samba, cabaret, and burlesque, combined with
Blue Bone Express, a Brass Band directed by Jara Queeto, that
plays New Orleans style music, to appear in Carnaval San Francisco. "We
bring a different esthetic; New Orleans Jazz, Samba and Cabaret
together. For instance, one of the choreographies this year is a New
Orleans jazz band rendition of a Venezuelan folk song, in an Eastern
European gypsy band arrangement. We are a band of Carnaval Pirates and
Gypsies who have gathered together as we have traveled the globe on land
and the high seas." Their inspiration is from folk dances from all the
countries, especially Latin America. Kelly (Kellita) Garton, the
Artistic Director has appeared in Carnaval San Francisco with various
samba groups, and the very first time she experienced it, in 1997, she
was hooked. "I live for this!" she says. The street filled with people
parading, dancing and marching joyfully! Color, exuberance: all this
counteracts the images of doom and violence that people today face, day
in and day out. It can be life-changing.
Sunday May 14, they invite everyone to a fundraiser; see the info at
www.hotpinkfeathers.com
Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts
presents "the dream of the jaguar", and in keeping with the overall
theme, "Land of Childhood Dreams", they are "evoking a time of the
American continents'
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Our contingent
features elements of a typical town “FIESTA,” blending exciting
rhythms of “Jarana”
– a folk dance from Yucatán, México, with movements from the
urban Hip Hop dance form. |
childhood, before the exploitation of its
inhabitants, both sentient and insentient. Before the advent of cartoon superheros, children had their native heros whom they admired for the
same traits as represented by the jaguar: beauty, power, intelligence,
mystery, and royalty. 'We do not inherit the Earth from our Ancestors,
we borrow it from our Children'." They will be dancing a dance from the
Yucatan., and the children will be dancing the "jaguar hip hop".
www.missionculturalcenter.org
 There has been Carnaval in Bolivia for more than 100 years. Anyone who
has seen Bolivian Contingents will not be surprised at that. The
dancers, some in miniskirts, stay tightly in step; there are others in
huge, scary costumes; the men jump and prance energetically. However,
I've never seen a Bolivian stop or rest during the parade. Now, most
Carnaval participants have experienced extra stamina during the parade.
This is due to the music, an appreciative audience, and the perception
of looking great. But the Bolivians have something else: Carnaval is in
their blood.
Here are the Bolivian Contingents: Bolivia, presenting an ancient
martial dance called "Tinku";
Bolivia Corazon de America, also doing Tinku;
bolivian_BoliviaCorazondeAmerica.html
Bolivians of Southern California, "Caporales", men with whips and
bells on the ankles. In olden days, they were enslaved foremen in the
mines, and now they represent freedom from slavery. They will also
present "Suris" who will mimic ostriches, with humongous feathered
umbrella hats.
Morenada- Bolivia, from Orange County, has an
Afro-Bolivian dance with Spanish heritage that represents the slaves in
that era, being directed by a "foreman". Women will be wearing
traditional Pollera skirts with beads, sequins, hats with large
 feathers, boots. Men wear heavy beaded and embroidered outfits that make
them look even bigger. They also wear elegant handmade masks.
Club CAB brings authentic Morenada Dance to express the pride of the
African Slaves.
Grupo Aztlan de SF, formed in 1973,
consists of three divisions: children, adults, and performing group.
This year, they are representing Yucatan Carnaval, which is a fusion of
Mayan, European, and Afro-Cuban. They will have authentic costumes and
choreography. Their mission is "to expand our knowledge in Mexican
culture through song and dance, and to present a diversity of dance
styles, costumes and music from an extensive repertoire of traditional
Mexican dances. They have participated in Carnaval celebrations for many
years.
Monroe Elementary School, presenting
Chinese and Mexican folk dances, has received first place in Children's
division, unseating the long-standing champion Buena Vista School. Run by Karina Vela, she says that cultural dance is
large part of the school culture.
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"There
are parents who are not comfortable with the lack of clothes in
San Francisco's Carnaval. To me, that's a learning opportunity.
Children will be exposed to lots of things. Partial nudity can
be looked at as being free, dancing."
--Karina Vela, |
"My favorite thing about Carnaval is
the image of clothing and ribbons all moving at the same time. Crowds
cheering, students expressing themselves, representing their school and
feeling completely supported. The students work hard: learn steps, learn
to smile, to bring joy to all those people. After the effort of
practicing, being focused, they appear beautiful and appreciated. This
year, I will be teaching the kids to do more dancing. Elementary School
children are such a pleasure to work with. They have no inhibitions;
They yell! They dance full out! in the future, I would like to see more
kids dancing cultural dances of all ethnicities. I would like to
contribute. It's such an opportunity for them to express themselves, and
learn about their own and others' cultures. As a teacher, I encounter
controversy. There are parents who are not comfortable with the lack of
clothes in San Francisco's Carnaval. To me, that's a learning
opportunity. Children will be exposed to lots of things. Partial nudity
can be looked at as being free, dancing. Even when I take off my shoes
in class to dance barefoot, the students stare at my feet. When they
take off their own shoes, they feel naked and vulnerable. The floor is
cold to them. Carnaval is lots of work, but it validates something that
I have loved for so long, and believed in so strongly. The elements
behind cultural dance say what that culture is about without really
saying it. It gives voice without using the mouth. My family, who
watched me studying dance for years (you want to get a degree in WHAT??)
now see tangible results. What I spend my time doing now, is the end
product of long studies. They get the big picture of who I am and what I
am." The children participate in every way: they get the costumes ready,
make decorations, and they learn that you have to work to get what you
want.
Buena Vista Elementary Scholl is the oldest
contingent in Carnaval
Every year more children appear in Carnaval San
Francisco, and this fact is a joy to all. Buena Vista School
has been a consistent participant for 18 years, and have won honors
since 1988. This year, they took the theme, "Land of Childhood Dreams"
to the children of the school and asked them what they dream about.
Their bottom line is this: Education makes Dreams Come True! The
musicians on the float are children and parents who are professional
musicians playing a wide array of instruments. In their words, they are
happy to continue their tradition of providing a top quality contingent.
I couldn't agree more.
James Lick Middle School's theme is "El Fuego por Dentro", the
fire within; the driving force that guides us to achieve our dreams.
Dressed in fire colors, the children will be dancing to Caribbean
rhythms. This will be their 5th year, and feel that it is a wonderful
opportunity for the students to appreciate life through the arts- not
just visually but dance and music as well.
Everett Middle School is focusing on ranges: from traditional to modern
( Rumba to Reggaeton), as well as the range of cultural diversity within
the school.
Another learning institution in Carnaval is City College of SF,
African
Drumming Ensemble. The musical director is S. Kwaku Daddy,
director of the CCSF Drumming Ensemble for 25 years. A celebrated
performer, artist and teacher, Kwaku was born and raised in Ghana.
www.skwaku.com
Nueva Middle School Mas and Steel Band, a first timer in
Carnaval. The kids will be playing and dancing in costumes they designed
and made themselves.
The Latin Jazz Youth Ensemble of San Francisco is a youth
performance group whose ages are between 12-17, directed by musician/
composer/ arranger John Calloway. Founded by John Calloway, Arturo Riera
and Sylvia Ramirez, this is a self-sustaining performance group whose
mission is to motivate young people to play Latin Jazz and to act as
role models for young musicians. The group has performed at Masonic
Auditorium, Oakland's Day of the Dead Festival, San Jose Jazz Festival,
Lafayette Jazz Festival, and San Francisco Carnaval. It was chosen as
one of the top youth performance groups in Northern California in the
2004 Youthquake competition. The Ensemble was an audience favorite when
they performed for the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival in 2004. ljye.com
Norcal Waste has been participating in Carnaval for over 10 years. They
want to highlight recycling, tours for school kids, and even an art
program. The drill team uses shiny cans which weigh 40 lbs. That is a
real crowd pleaser, but there is a message in their performance: they
are adept at their job, no matter how steep or narrow the road is. And
to top it off, is the Recycled Instrument Band, with instruments made by
artist-in-residence Banker White.
Sistas-wit-Style
was formed by 3 dynamic pre-teens, and has grown to become a
very large contingent. Merissa Lyons, CEO,
Valencia Newton, COO, and Kianna Rachal, CFO, now in
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Congratulations to SWS:
Our first Junior Queen of Carnaval is
Merissa Lyons! |
High School, are the founders. Their
manager is Anabelle Goodridge, Merissa's mom, who is originally
from the Caribbean. Through her, they learned about the culture
and music of Trinidad. When Merissa was little, she participated
in Mas Makers Massive. When the other girls got a
taste of that beautiful Trini music and dance, it was just a
matter of time before they decided to start their own group.
Once a year was just not enough. They enjoyed it so much, that
they founded the Caribbean Folk Performing Dance Company
when they were 9 and 10 years old. They now teach dance
at six different elementary and high schools in Oakland, as well
as giving classes every Saturday. They have mobilized tremendous
support from the community, and are committed to making a
difference in their community by showing that there is a
positive side to what kids are doing in East Oakland. They have
the kind of commitment and focus rarely seen in kids that age.
Last year, they launched their contingent, Sistas wit Style, in
San Francisco Carnaval, and won prizes for costumes and
performance. This year, their theme is "Sweet Dreams", a group
of children dreaming what they want to be when they grow up.
Merissa, Kianna and Valencia choreographed all of the dances.
The girls handle every aspect of running their contingent,
although they are quick to name the many people who have given
them support.
Loco Bloco
Congratulations to the Princess of Carnaval 2006,
Mayela Carrasco, from Loco Bloco!!!
Loco Bloco will be dancing to a fusion of Afro-Brazilian,
Hip-Hop, and Cuban rhythms. The largest youth-based contingent
in the parade, they have won top carnaval prizes, including 3
times Grand Prize Winners. Loco Bloco is a performing arts
program for children, teens and young adults rooted in the
multi-ethnic Mission District of San Francisco.They provide
young people with a hands on introduction to musical, dance and
theater traditions of the Americas, as well as access to express
themselves on stages internationally. Founded in 1994, Loco
Bloco has provided thousands of youth from low-income
communities free classes in percussion, dance and theater. "Loco
Bloco's programs provide youth consistent contact with
community-based artists of color who act as teachers, mentors
and role models, empowering youth to make healthy choices about
their lives. We feel both proud and grateful to work with youth
and families in our community, and to bring forth amazing young
artists." They will be performing on stage at the festival later
that day. www.locobloco.org
Mixisto
Congratulations to the Junior King of Carnaval,
Alex Hernandez of Mixtiso Latin Hip Hop!!!
Mixtiso Latin Hip Hop, directed by Vanessa Mosqueda,
Queen of Carnaval 2005, now has 2 people of royalty!
Mixtiso, will dance to a little bit of everything: lots of
cumbia, some dance hall Caribbean, traditional Mexican,
reggaeton hip hop, and even some American Indian fancy dancing.
Vanessa says "my choreography Mixtiso is an extension of my
body, soul, and heart. We give thanks to all indigenous people,
and all the universe. We give thanks for another day in life."
carnaval.com/sf05/queen/
Congratulations to the Bay Area
Caribbean Connection [BACC]:
the new Prince of Carnaval is Tymothi Hall!
Congratulations are in order for BACC and its band member,
Tymothi Hall, who recently won the San Francisco Bay Area
Carnaval's first ever Prince of Carnaval title. Tymothi paraded
and danced his way into the hearts of the audience and the
judges alike during the April 22 contest, under the watchful eye
of BACC’s band leader Wendell Seifert and the band’s
dance choreographer Oneida Cordovia.
According to Seifert, BACC’s purpose is to unify different
cultures by introducing and connecting Bay Area Citizens with
the colorful and multicultural Caribbean traditions that will
transcend to future generations. Seifert believes that this
coming together of cultures, ethnicities and generations is an
excellent example of the legacy that is Trinidad and Tobago’s
Carnival. Through his efforts and activities with Bay Area
Caribbean Connection, Seifert pursues this vision by making
positive contributions to the culture and providing
opportunities for young and old alike to enjoy a truly memorable
Carnival experience. In keeping with this goal, Seifert and BACC
invites all fun-loving people, die-hard Masqueraders or
first-timers – local or visitors, and all those in between, to
become part of the Bay Area Caribbean Connection family. In his
own words, Seifert proudly states “We sincerely welcome you to
the best time ever!” |
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