Often overshadowed internationally by the global fame of tango, Argentina’s traditional dances represent a rich, vibrant world deeply rooted in the country’s cultural diversity.
Born in rural landscapes, these dances are closely tied to everyday rhythms, community celebrations, and oral traditions passed down through generations. Whether couple or group dances—like the chacarera, zamba, gato, escondido, or malambo—each has its own symbolic, gestural, and rhythmic language. Regularly performed at peñas, festive and inclusive traditional dance gatherings, these dances reflect a profound connection to the land.

In this workshop, we are delighted to welcome Rocco Sedano, a celebrated artist renowned for his deep commitment to Argentina’s folk traditions and his generous, accessible pedagogy.

Workshop Program

Technique:

• Physical warm-up, body awareness, grounding with Pachamama

• Group connection through eye contact, circular motion, and the embrace (el abrazo)

• Basic steps, rhythmic expression, and movement phrasing

• Freedom of improvisation and the joy of dancing together

Dances:

• Chacarera: A lively and circular couple dance from northwest Argentina. The dancer seduces with zapateo(footwork), while the partner responds with zarandeo (skirt movements). Focus: basic steps, circularity, musicality, and collective dimension.

• Zamba: A gentle, elegant dance of courtship performed with scarves and without physical contact. Emphasis on musical interpretation, emotional expression, and the subtle interplay between movement and intention.

• Zapateo (Malambo / Argentine tap dance): A percussive dance rooted in gaucho culture, involving rhythmic footwork with boots, often accompanied by guitar and bombo. Focus on rhythmic dissociation, speed, and stage presence.

Biography

Rocco Sedano is a passionate dancer, choreographer, composer, and musician. A multifaceted French-Argentinian artist, he has spent over twenty years combining creation, performance, and teaching in an approach that is both sensitive and socially engaged.

He works across a wide variety of contexts—from preschools to high schools, dance schools to private masterclasses, and inclusive institutions such as ESAT (vocational centers). His nurturing pedagogical style places the body and rhythm at the heart of a human and artistic connection, fostering openness, creativity, and meaningful exchange