SambaFunk!

Bay Area Alameda County African/African-American Dance Music Brazilian 2018 2020

About the Organization

Founded in 2011 by Artistic Director Theo Aytchan Williams, SambaFunk! was born from the cultural void left by the death of Theo’s mentor Carlo Acetunio, the founding director of Fo Na Roupa Brazilian dance company. SambaFunk! is an homage to and an evolution of his vision and spirit. SambaFunk! started as a single dance class and has since grown into a beloved and multi-faceted cultural arts organization. Their diverse programming ranges from weekly dance instruction, regular performances, original music creation, hosting and presenting international cultural artists, parades, festivals, stage performance, and participation in political, social justice, healing circles, and arts advocacy.

Living Cultures Grant

2018

The arts and drum community organization received a Living Cultures grant to hold workshops with an artist-in-residence from Salvador, Brazil.

2020

SambaFunk! received a Living Cultures grant form ACTA to introduce a new community arts program: Bahia Beats :: Oakland Streets. The program includes a series of African Brasilian public dance & drum classes, workshops, performances, community appearances and processions throughout East / Deep East & West Oakland. Led by visiting Summer Artist in Residence, Mestra Renata Dias Frago Scholl, the program will bring the African Brasilian Culture to Oakland communities that are in deep need of joy filled Cultural expression. 50% of the programming will be free and accessible to the general public.