Samba Foundations with PHonk!Philly!

In this open-level class, you'll learn the foundations of Samba No Pé, with a focus on footwork, flow, and full-body connection. Cely brings deep knowledge, joy, and care to her teaching, creating space for all levels to grow and groove together.

🗓️ Wednesdays at 6:30pm

📍 Hawthorne Cultural Center

🎶 All bodies, all levels welcome

🥁Live drumming

Samba Foundations is all about connecting through the rhythm and energy of Brazilian Samba. Whether you're stepping in for the first time or refining your samba step, this class focuses on the core movements and spirit of the dance. Come build your confidence, learn together, and celebrate Samba in a welcoming and supportive space.

What to Expect:

Samba No Pé Basics

Get to know the signature step that brings Samba to life. We'll start with the rhythm and build from the ground up.

Footwork Drills & Flow

Through fun drills and step progressions, you'll build speed, coordination, and that sharp Samba footwork.

Posture & Upper Body Movement

Learn how to stay grounded in your hips while keeping your upper body lifted and expressive—grace meets fire.

Full-Body Connection

Bring it all together by syncing your movement from head to toe. We'll focus on flow, expression, and dancing with your whole self.

Meet your Teaching Artist: Cely's love of dance was born from her Caribbean roots, having danced merengue & bachata since childhood. Her Samba journey began three years ago in Denver, CO, when she stumbled into a Carnaval event and immediately fell in love with Samba and Brazilian culture. There, she studied and danced with Bella Diva World Dance and Escola de Samba Denver.

As an Afro-Dominican, Cely strives to center Samba's Afro-Brazilian roots. She invites others to experience the joy of movement through the celebration and respect of Brazil's rich culture, history and Black resistance. Cely's approach to teaching is to create a safe space where dancers can make their personal connection to Samba through body awareness and intuitive movement.

Cely has studied with Brazilian Samba Master Teachers: Carlinhos do Salgueiro, Ingride Banzo, Régine Bellinger, Mayombe Masai, Rosangela Silvestre, and Georgette Bond.