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