(Description from Dance This 2007 Program)

“Zapateo,” derived from the word shoe, is a stepping dance style in which the dancer provides rhythmic enhancement to a melodious tune. Traditionally accompanied by one guitar, two or more males would compete against each other to demonstrate skill and musicality by improvising intricate rhythmic patterns with feet against the floor and body slapping. Unlike U.S. tap, it is danced with a plain hard-soled shoe.

Choreographer: Luis Sandoval

Composer & Musician: Roberto Arguedas

North-South ConeXions Project Director: Rose Cano

Afro-Peruvian Cultural Specialist & Guest Dancer/Instructor: Monica Rojas, Ph.D (Anthropology)

Dancers: Deon Abdullah, La’Twon Allen, Tyrone Crosby, Gina Bravo de Rueda, Olivia Bravo de Rueda (company manager), Nailah Harris, Siya Manyakanyaka-Kelley, Makayla McGhee, Janisha Sparks, Ahmen Taplin and Jonathan Williams


2007