Caribbean Folk Dance Performance and Workshop by Nick Gordon

Access

About

Nick Gordon will be showcasing a Caribbean folk dance performance followed by a participatory workshop where participants will engage with the choreography involved in learning the dance. Through this experience, participants gain a deeper understanding of the techniques and traditions embedded in Caribbean folk dance, while discovering the beauty of this cultural art form.

Caribbean folk dance originated in the Caribbean many years ago, during the period when the French aristocracy settled and brought enslaved Africans to work on their plantations. The enslaved people would often imitate the dance of the Europeans during celebrations at the Great Houses. However, they infused these dances with their own distinct style, incorporating the rhythmic power of drums, grand sweeping gestures, powerful entrances, and grounded movements. This fusion led to the creation of Caribbean folk dance, or 'Bele'. Today, Bele continues to celebrate the rich history, resilience, and cultural expressions of the Caribbean people.

Organizer

Nick Gordon

Nick is a professional musician, dancer and performing artist from the Caribbean currently residing in Burlington Ontario.

Nick proudly showcases his Caribbean roots through his music and dance and over the years, has performed at many festivals and events throughout Canada.