ÓTIMO DANCE COMPANY
feathers, sequins, glitter and #shakeyshakey
ótimo (Portuguese)
adjective: excellent, splendid, wonderful, optimal
exclamation: great! super! (expression of gladness)
ABOUT US
Ótimo Dance is a Madison, Wisconsin-based group that performs lively Brazillian-inspired, Samba-based choreography with live drummers, handcrafted costumes, a bold feminine aesthetic and body positivity. Founded in 2012 by Sheba McCants and Cody Jussel, Ótimo quickly gained the enthusiastic support of fellow artists and audiences with its captivating performances. Ótimo features live percussion accompaniment, handcrafted costume designs, and a bold, feminine aesthetic. Ótimo Dance is grounded in gratitude for the communities that embrace and value the contributions women have made to the arts.
We Teach Local Classes
Ótimo Dance strives to provide local education and performance programs to all levels of dancers. Since its launch in 2012, Ótimo has served well over 300 individuals through weekly classes, performance workshops, movement workshops, and informal performances.
And Perform Professionally
The Ótimo Dance Performance Team entertains regularly throughout the year at various locations including the annual Carnaval celebration at Majestic Madison in February or March. They have also been featured at pubic and private events at many premier local and regional venues including High Noon Saloon, Overture Center for the Arts, The Edgewater, La Fete de Marquette and Atwood Fest!
Contact us for more info on shows for your next wedding, party or event!
Samba is a lively, rhythmic dance of Brazilian origin. There are a set of dances, rather than a single dance, that define the Samba style. Samba originated in Brazil as a street dance, not in dance studios – therefore, Samba comes in many flavors and each person has their own unique style!
what is samba?
SHOWS
Memorial Union Terrace
★ Thursday, July 15th, 2021 ★
Come bask in the Samba Reggae vibes with Otimo Dance and The Handphibians at the Memorial Union Terrace. Music begins at 7pm!
The Sessions at McPike Park
★ Saturday, August 7th, 2021 ★
We are excited to be a part of this week-long music celebration!
Catch us a 2pm in front of the main stage!
Monroe's Concert on the Square
★ Friday, September 17th, 2021 ★
We'll be teaming up with our friends, The Handphibians, for some Samba in the Streets!
Madison Carnaval 2022
Stay tuned for more info on the fabulous annual Carnaval event hosted by The Handphibians featuring Brazilian drumming, dance and music!
CLASSES
Have fun, get a great workout, and meet new people at Ótimo Dance classes!
Each year Ótimo Dance hosts educational and performance workshops exploring various styles of Brazilian dance such as Samba Reggae, Maracatu, Samba no Pé, Samba Axé and more!
Here's what we've got coming up:
vamos sambar
Click the buttons below to inquire about performances, classes or private samba lessons.
Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram too!
Email * Instagram * Workshops * Facebook
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FOUNDERS
Cody Jussel co-founded Ótimo Dance in 2012 and was the groups creative director until 2014.
Sheba McCants co-founded Ótimo Dance in 2012. She managed and directed the group until 2017.
Cody Jussel & Sheba McCants, founders Ótimo Dance
