Julio Jean
Julio Jean is a renowned master Haitian dance teacher and choreographer. He blends traditional Haitian forms with modern and contemporary dance to create compelling movement narratives. His extensive career of over 20 years includes work with Katherine Dunham and performances of his company’s choreographies at Alvin Ailey and Central Park’s Summer Stage. Julio studied with Lavinia Williams, a company member of Katherine Dunham, at the National School of Arts in Haiti. In 1989, he moved to New York City and worked directly with Katherine Dunham, teaching traditional Haitian dance for her teacher trainings. He has been a guest teacher at Webster University in Saint Louis and Humboldt University in Berlin, Germany; and has taught workshops in San Francisco, Milwaukee, and at the Dance New England Dance Camp in Poland, Maine.
Currently, Julio teaches in New York City and at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Julio is also a songwriter and composer of traditional Haitian music; he released the album: “Kenbe la,” which encompasses the panorama of traditional Haitian music.
Class Info.
Haitian Dance - This Haitian dance class will take you on a journey to the nanm, meaning “soul” in Haitian Kreyol. Led by Julio Jean, you will become acquainted with the different Iwa (gods) of the Vodou religion through their dances, songs, rhythms and rituals by exploring traditional Haitian dance forms rooted in West Africa and the South American Amazon.
Compas - Compas a traditional Haitian meringue, jazz and Vodou rhythm couples dance. Primarily focusing on movements of the hips.