News & Events

Viver Brasil Brings Afro-Brazilian Dance to Asheville

March 22, 2011

Asheville will experience jubilant Afro-Brazilian dance when the vibrant and award-winning Viver Brasil takes to the stage at the Diana Wortham Theater on April 5 and 6. Specializing in bringing to life the beautiful and complex stories of the “orixa,” African sacred energies, Viver Brasil’s style incorporates samba, contemporary Afro-Brazilian dance and carnival. Curtain is 8 p.m. for both shows at the Diana Wortham Theater, at Pack Place in downtown Asheville.

Viver Brasil is a Los Angeles based dance company founded in 1997 by co-artistic directors Linda Yudin and Luiz Badaró. Their choreography is rooted in the traditional and contemporary forms and techniques of Salvador, Bahia and Brazil. Many members of the company make annual trips to Brazil to refine the company's repertoire, and to absorb and reflect the spirit and expression of Afro-Brazilian culture in northeastern Brazil. Viver Brasil also teaches the rich history of Afro-Brazilian dance and music through educational and interactive dance programs from elementary school through university levels.

Viver Brasil has performed all over the U.S., and has received the Dance Resource Center of Greater Los Angeles’ Lester Horton Dance Awards for outstanding achievement in a company performance for non-western dance, and for best achievement in music, dance, costume design, and company performance.

Viver Brasil's Asheville appearances are presented in partnership by UNC Asheville's Cultural Events and Special Academic Programs and the Diana Wortham Theater. Members of the UNC Asheville community can purchase tickets at the Highsmith University Union Box Office or online at uncatickets.com. Tickets are $5 for students and $35 for the general public, and are also available through the Diana Wortham Theater Web site or by calling 828.257.4530. For more information, visit the UNC Asheville Cultural Events & Special Academic Programs Web site.