Batucaxé, Tucson's premier high-energy Afro-Brazilian band, is hosting its third annual Monsoon Mania Dance Party on Saturday.
Count on it being hot.
"We've always had a great turnout," said Jaimie Lindsay, one of the organizers.
The family-friendly dance party was started as a way to help send members to California Brazil Camp, which is an immersion program in the dance, music and culture of Brazil.
It has evolved into a much anticipated summer party - with lots of dancing.
Batucaxé (pronounced bah-too-cah-SHEH) is a nonprofit drum and dance ensemble and school that celebrates Brazilian tradition, music and culture.
At Saturday's Monsoon Mania, attendees can show their Batucaxé pride by wearing purple and bright green, colorful beads and glitter.
People are also reading…
Batucaxé, which has been part of the Tucson world music scene for 10 years, regularly participates in local festivals (including Tucson Meet Yourself) and performs at area clubs and events. Tucson Carnaval, held in February, is its signature event.
Some members have years of drumming and dance experience, and others are still learning.
"We are always welcoming new members," said Kenya Johnson, the group's volunteer marketing coordinator.
Aside from its performances, the group's goal is to inspire energetic creativity by offering classes and programs.
The group rehearses from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, and anyone is welcome to watch.
"People can show up and they can have a seat and watch what we do," she said. "It's a nice introduction."
On Sundays, Batucaxé holds an Afro-Brazilian dance class with live drumming, from 5 to 6:15 p.m. The cost is $12 for one class (walk-ins are always welcome) or prepay $40 for four.
"You're going to come out smiling. You're going to come out learning something new," Johnson said. "Every week we have new people joining us."
If you go
• What: Third Annual Monsoon Mania Dance Party presented by Batucaxé.
• When: 7-11 p.m. Saturday.
• Where: Rhythm Industry Performance Factory, 1013 S. Tyndall Ave.
• Cost: Admission is $10, kids 12 and under free. There will be pizza and drinks for sale, along with Batucaxé's CD ($15) and Tucson Carnaval T-shirts.
• Info: www.batucaxe.org
Michelle Weiss is a University of Arizona journalism student who is an apprentice at the Star. Contact her at starapprentice@azstarnet.com or 807-7776.
