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2010 Ala Descriptions
We're excited to start our 2010 season. Now is the time to think about which "ala" (wing or section) you will join. When selecting your ala remember that you must learn your part/choreography and execute it to the best of your ability.
BATERIA is the heartbeat of the contingent. The Music Director will assist each bateria member in selecting the right instrument. Whether you are an experienced musician or have never played music before there is a place for you. There will also be a youth drum-line comprised of hand made and marching drums. The dancers depend on the music to be crisp, clean and rockin'.
Ala das BAIANAS are the matriarchs of the contingent. They come first in the parade line-up opening the way for the success of our parade and a reminder of where we come from – our mothers. Their movements are fluid and undulating, strong and decisive -- a flourish of their hand bestows a blessing.
BLOCO AFRO brings the vibrant and explosive energy of innovation in Pan-African dance. This group will perform a samba and samba reggae choreography, as well as, take turns performing solos that are followed by the rest of the ala. This ala honors the resilience, ingenuity and creativity of people of African descent. All members of this ala honor themselves and the contingent as a whole. This is the largest section of Batucada do Leste.
CAPOEIRA is an ala defined by its ability to mask the lethal potential of this martial art in sequences of playful kicks and escapes. Both experienced capoeiristas and individuals wanting to try something new will find a lot of fun and challenge in this ala.
SOLOISTS are dancers/capoeiristas who have the demonstrated ability and interest in putting on a show. They play to the crowd and generate excitement with their improvised theatrics and dance moving continuously around and through the whole contingent. Soloists also function as spectacle and wear costume elements that create visual interest. The Artistic Director will determine soloists.
SECTION LEADERS are committed Batucada do Leste members who have been with the group for at least two previous Carnaval seasons OR who study year-round with the Artistic Director. There will be at least one but no more than two Section Leaders per ala. These individuals know and understand the choreographies, sequences, music and transitions and help members of their ala to fine-tune their movements. They assist their ala in maintaining their lines and energy for the duration of the parade. The Artistic Director will determine Section Leaders.
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