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ÓTIMO DANCE COMPANY 

feathers, sequins, glitter and #shakeyshakey

ótimo (Portuguese)

We Are
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 public 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 performing at your event!

About Us
 
 

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

SHOWS

Madison Carnaval 2024

Join us for our biggest show of the year on Saturday, February 17th featuring Brazilian capoeira, live drumming and LOTS of dance! Door open at 8pm, dancers come on around 10pm and midnight.
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AtwoodFest

★ July 2024 ★
Catch us as part of the convergence parade with our friends The Handphibians before we perform maracatu as part of the ultimate east side block party!

The Sessions at McPike Park

Sunday, August 11, 2024 ★
We are excited to be a part of this week-long music celebration!
Performance time and location TBD

Memorial Union Terrace

★ August 2024 ★
Come bask in the glow of samba from Rio with Ótimo Dance and The Handphibians at the Memorial Union Terrace. Music begins at 7pm!
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CLASSES

Have fun, get a great workout, and meet new people at Ótimo Dance classes!

Here's what we've got coming up:

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OPEN COMMUNITY SAMBA WORKSHOP

MARCH 9TH

Carnaval season got you feeling inspired to try SAMBA?!? Join us for a 90-minute open community workshop!

Saturday, March 9th 1:30-3:00pm

72 N. Bryan St.

$15/person

 

Open to all ages, genders and dance levels!

About Classes

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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Our bodies, our rules
Great Samba Reggae energy!_🥁🇧🇷💙🙌🏼�
Our lovely dancers
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Carnaval was a night to remember! #joy #
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No means no
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Carnaval 2008 #samba #carnaval #passista
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FOUNDERS

Cody Jussel & Sheba McCants, founders Ótimo Dance

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Briana Gutierrez
Manager & Director
2017-Present
Founders
Contact Us

Muito Obrigada!

Thank you for visiting our site! We can't wait to dance with you!
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