BREAKING: Sabrosura, Yale’s premier Latin dance team, is making history tonight by performing the traditional Bolivian folk dance called caporales for the first time. The event, titled “Sabor en Nuestra Sangre,” is taking place at the Off Broadway Theater at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. today, October 31, 2023.
The vibrant red, yellow, and green lights on stage symbolize the Bolivian flag, creating an electrifying atmosphere as dancers take their first steps into this cultural milestone. Founded in 2008, Sabrosura has always celebrated Latin American and Caribbean dance, but tonight’s performance showcases a groundbreaking expansion into Andean roots, profoundly meaningful for its members.
“I’m thrilled to introduce caporales to an institution like Yale,” said co-president Vivian Quint, a passionate advocate for showcasing her Bolivian heritage. Quint, who has been dancing caporales since she was 14 years old, received funding through a Creative and Performing Arts grant to realize her vision.
The show, which means “flavor in our blood,” explores themes of family and matrimony. While typical Latin rhythms dominate the stage, Quint emphasizes that this performance transcends expectations, highlighting the rich diversity of Latin culture. “This year, we’re expanding our repertoire to include a variety of dance styles, not just Caribbean flavors,” she stated.
Unlike previous showcases, this year’s event features a documentary that chronicles Quint’s collaboration with professional caporales dancers, including Hector Tolentino, Ricardo Tolentino, and Giuliana Figueroa. Directed by Ricardo Tolentino, the documentary not only showcases the rehearsal process but also serves as an educational tool for attendees eager to learn about the history of caporales, which originated in 1969 in Bolivia.
The workshop held on Thursday, led by the Tolentino brothers and Figueroa, offered attendees the chance to learn basic steps of caporales, with many donning sequined skirts. “We are here to share our passion and see the determination that Sabrosura members have in bringing this choreography to life,” Figueroa remarked.
Quint noted that this endeavor required extensive planning and collaboration, as none of the Sabrosura members had prior experience with caporales. “It took a village to make this happen,” she explained, highlighting the need for rentals and accommodations for the instructors who dedicated a week to intensive training before the showcase.
Sabrosura has also embraced a trend toward diversifying its performances this year. “We included a greater variety of dance styles, ensuring that no two dances are from the same genre,” said co-president Andre Botero. He believes this is one of the team’s best shows yet, reflecting the rich tapestry of Latin cultures.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this historic performance tonight at the Off Broadway Theater. Sabrosura’s captivating showcase promises an unforgettable evening of dance that bridges cultural gaps and celebrates heritage.
With anticipation building, make sure to share this exciting news and support Sabrosura as they take the stage to redefine Latin dance at Yale!
