Get ready to move, smile, and connect in this all-level Samba class with Rocío Cristal! Samba is a vibrant Brazilian dance and musical tradition known for its infectious rhythms, joyful energy, and deep cultural roots. Whether you’re stepping onto the dance floor for the very first time or have been dancing samba for years, this class is designed to welcome you with open arms and an open heart.
Here, you’ll learn the core Samba movements, work on drills to improve your technique and stamina, practice fun sequences and connect to Brazil’s rich cultural history. Rocío’s lighthearted and encouraging teaching style makes it fun to build your confidence while feeling the energy of Samba all around you.
Beyond dance, this class is about community, self-expression, and celebrating this beautiful culture together. So wear your favorite activewear, comfortable sneakers and don't forget your water bottle. Come join us to feel the rhythms, ignite your spirit, and make new friends in a supportive, uplifting environment. Everyone is welcome, let’s samba!
Wednesdays 5:30-6:25PM
Redwood Raks Studio (Jade) , 824 L Street, Arcata
$15 drop-in
About the instructor:
Rocío Cristal is a Puerto Rican dance artist, teacher, choreographer, percussionist, and singer with 14 years of training in Samba dance and percussion under some of the world’s most influential Brazilian artists. Rocío has performed in the Río de Janeiro Sambódromo as Primeira Musa of Unidos da Ponte and Acadêmicos de Vigário Geral, and as Passista of Estácio de Sá, União da Ilha and Inocentes de Belford Roxo. She has also been a ritmista (drummer) in the bloco Vagalume o Verde, parading twice in Río’s street Carnaval.
She has directed parades in Arcata and Seattle and has taught samba classes and workshops for 12 years across California, Texas, Puerto Rico, and online. In 2023, she organized the first cultural and dance tour from Humboldt to Río, where a dozen students trained with master teachers and participated in the world’s biggest Carnaval.
Rocío has been a member of several samba ensembles, including Samba da Alegría Arcata, where she served as Dance Director for five NCF parades; dance lead for the Passista ala of Austin Samba School; co-founder of Samba Floresta; MeliSamba; BateLata; Olio; SambAmore; Bloco Pacifico, and others.
Rocío believes samba is more than a hobby; it is a way to build community, discover oneself, and heal both body and spirit through ancestral cultural practices that have endured across generations and continents.
Also check out other Workshops in Arcata, Arts events in Arcata.
