This past March, I traveled along with twelve other OSU dance majors to Salvador, Brazil to embark on a fifteen-day dance tour. The Dance Brazil Study Tour was an exhilarating study abroad experience where we performed on tour all over Bahia, Brazil, learning about culture, professionalism, and art.
Before heading to Brazil, our touring company spent two semesters learning ten pieces of repertoire that represented uniquely American Dance, particularly dance with strong African roots. The pieces I was in were Janet Schroeder’s step dance piece O2B REVISITED, Maxi Riley’s jazz piece Hit the Road, Lexi Stillianos’ contemporary piece The Tie That Binds, Mason Chapello’s tap piece Get Mad, Relax, and Crystal Michelle Perkins’ Dayton Contemporary Dance Company reset of The Amen Corner.
Once in Brazil, we toured our show in high schools, music academies, community centers, city centers, preschools, elementary schools, universities, and dance studios. Everyone was so grateful and supportive of our dancing. It was amazing to exchange art with these amazing people. It felt so rewarding and thrilling to be performing miles away from home for such appreciative, supportive people.
In Brazil we also had the chance to explore the country and meet wonderful people. We had our wonderful director Daniel Roberts and three amazing Brazilian leaders, Clara, Simone, and Aercio, and who
guided us around the country and showed us so much love and kindness. We explored mountains, a beautiful cave, Candomble temples, cultural centers, and historic Salvador. We also took classes from a variety of Brazilian dance masters versed in Afro-Brazilian dance, Capoeira, and samba.
On this trip, I learned that I could make meaningful relationships with people that I didn’t share any language with. I found that dancing for children delighted them and made them feel excited about art and culture. I found an appreciation for the beautiful Afro-Brazilian culture and the many aspects of music, dance, religion, and history that it combines. I learned to work cooperatively with a group and dance in a variety of new and tricky circumstances. Lastly, I learned a lot about myself, my values, and what I hope for my future. I’m very thankful to the Ohio State Dance Department, Daniel Roberts, STEP at OSU, and my fellow dancers for this incredible opportunity.
To get a sneak peek of our trip, check out this video created by Mason Chapello!
Kelsey Kempner 