|
Rita Silva
who hails from Salvador Bahia, Brazil began
touring as a high school student throughout Brazil playing
traditional African instruments and singing. As a dancer she
was a member of "VIVA BAHIA", directed by Emilia
Biancardi, the first Folcloric dance company in Brazil to
tour internationally.
Rita was also assistant Director,
and principal dancer of "Zambo Bahia" and then went
on to be Co-Founder,Co-Director and principal dancer of "Bahia
Magia", and assistant director and principal dancer of
"Capoeira Bahia", Rita was then hired by the Bahia
Department of Tourism as part of a company of illustrious
performers to travel the world exemplifying and celebrating
the rich cultural diversity of Brazil. These projects have
kept Rita busy touring extensively in Europe,Central / South
America, Canada, Israel and the U.S.of A for over 25 years.
Rita now lives in New York City,
and has performed in many venues such as Town Hall, Symphony
Space, Knitting Factory, Joe's Pub, Prospect Park, Central
Park etc....
Amongst her talents Rita also
works with percussion in different groups such as "IHOT"
"Magica" , "Bossas of Avatar","Sugar
Tit" - (Womens theatrical/Musical troope)
Rita also performed, and toured
with Jazz artist "Leon Parker" in Jazz Festivals
in San Francisco, Santa Cruz and recorded on his last CD "Awakening",
Rita also toured within the U.S. & Canada with Indian
Orchestra directed by great musical director:"AR
RAHMAN", Rita also plays,sings and speaks on a Documentary
film Directed by Thomas Allen Harris "E Minha Cara"
(Thats My Face )
Rita also has been teaching her
Afro-Brazilian culture and traditions in the public school
system since 1994, as well as in different universities, festivals
and adult workshops.
Rita also produced events called
Bahiafest since 1996 allowing people to experience her native
traditions thru dance, music and typical food in a exstensive
2 day event with elder guests from Bahia.
|
