From Benin to L.A.
Connecting Cultures Through Dance
From Benin to L.A. is an initiative dedicated to sharing and connecting the vibrant culture of Benin and its captivating dances with the Los Angeles community.
After immersing myself in Benin for 10 months as a Fulbrighter in 2023, studying traditional dance and music, I felt the need to deepen this knowledge and bring its vibrancy to my community in Los Angeles. The opportunity came as I partnered with dancer and choreographer Orphée Georgah AHEHEHINNOU to create the first edition of this project in 2024, building a bridge between cultures through dance and rhythm.
We hosted a series of classes with the intention of connecting the roots of Dahomey with Haiti and Brazil, collaborating with two Los Angeles-based choreographers and dancers. The Benin-Haiti exchange was led by Dr. Colette Eloi, an expert in Haitian dance and culture, while the Benin-Brazil connection was facilitated by Rachel Hernandez, a specialist in Afro-Brazilian dance.
Beyond classes, we organized community workshops and performances, reaching a wider audience and extending cultural connections.
The 2025 edition of From Benin to L.A. will continue this journey with exciting collaborations featuring LA-based artists such as Kati Hernandez, an expert in Afro-Cuban dance and culture, and Vive Brasil Dance Company under the artistic direction of Vera Passos, linking Benin to Brazil and the traditions of Afro-Brazilian dances.
More workshops, performances, and cultural exchanges will take place, celebrating the vibrant dance traditions of Dahomey and strengthening the connection between Benin, the Diaspora, and beyond.
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