Dana K. Ross
Special to Inside
Local residents will take a dance trip around the world on Sunday, Sept. 21, when Ethnic Exposure performs a Latino Dance Extravaganza at the North Lakeside Cultural Center, 6219 N. Sheridan Rd. The show will feature 15 dancers trained in flamenco, tango, salsa, merengue and Mexican-folkloric styles, who will be accompanied by live musicians and singers.
"It will be a true learning experience," said Jason Trinidad, 30, the company director and one of the dancers and choreographers. "People will be exposed to dance from many different nations and it is our goal to teach people about the music and languages from these countries, as well."
Ethnic Exposure is an international dance company that was formed in August 2002 and offers intensive training in a number of different styles. After auditioning, students are schooled in dances from Spanish-speaking countries, as well as traditional forms from Senegal, Korea, the Philippines, and India.
While the dancers perform styles from places other than their native countries, the traditional training provides an authentic experience for the audience.
After the performance, attendees will be invited to put their own feet to work by participating in a salsa lesson. Dancers and musicians will also stay after the performance to answer questions about the different styles.
"This becomes a family-oriented, neighborhood event," Trinidad said. "There will be something for every age and interest. Usually, when you go to a show, you see one style. Here, you will be exposed to many styles."
Bonnie Tipton Long, executive director of the North Lakeside Cultural Center, said the Latino Dance Extravaganza is the perfect kind of event for this venue. The Center draws various groups and performances into the area and Tipton Long thinks people will enjoy a Sunday afternoon of ethnic dance.
"Our demographic in this neighborhood is extremely diverse," Tipton Long said. "With these types of events, we think we can draw a lot of people to the center to learn more about the arts."
The Center is located in a restored mansion on Sheridan Rd. along Lake Michigan. The idyllic setting lends itself to the fostering of arts, culture and neighborhood involvement.
"The lakefront adds serenity," Tipton Long said. "It enhances your experience with the arts."
The event begins at 3 p.m. and will run until 5 p.m. There is a $7 charge for general admission and a $5 charge for students and seniors.
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