Kizomba, or « kiz » for short, has been making its come-back to center stage in recent months thanks to the SXM Loves Kizomba organization which offers classes and open practice sessions.
Originally from Angola, modern evolution of a traditional dance called Semba, it is the latest newcomer in couple dances to break through the Latino parties of the island. At first, it was a dance based on African rhythms with Portuguese lyrics, kizomba is now more and more based on sounds that are close to zouk, kompa or even RnB thanks to its variants called « urban kiz » or « taraxo » (pronounced taracho); they combine dance moves to more acrobatic lifts.
According to Lionel, manager of the SXM Loves Kizomba organization since 2021, the practice of kizomba has always had "ups and downs" in Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten. As a dance lover, together with Alan, another dancer, he took the initiative to revive kizomba which had come to a standstill after Hurricane Irma in 2017. At first, there were about 15 people, there are now more than a hundred people dancing kizomba during classes followed by dancing practice but also by open practice sessions offered every Friday night on the waterfront in Marigot.
Every month, dance instructors coming from the Caribbean are invited by the organization to host one-day training sessions. The goal of the organization is to “create a real dynamic around kizomba”.
On Mondays, from 8pm to 9pm at Sandy’s Too (La Savane): progressive learning class (€8 and €6.50 package fare)
On Wednesdays, from 7pm to 8pm at Collège Mont des Accords (Concordia) with the Afrolatin' Moove organization: beginner class (€10)
On Fridays, starting at 7pm: outdoor social kizomba, free open practice session on the waterfront in Marigot (next to the lolos)
sxmloveskizomba@gmail.com
