Cultural dancers in St. Kitts spent some time recently learning techniques of a more modern dance in a tale of old school meets new style.

The Victoria Road Community Center was the venue for a hip-hop workshop which drew young dancers of the hip-hop genre but also appealed to more seasoned performers from traditional dance groups including Vivace, Okolo Tegremantine as well as Christian groups Hebrew Brothers and Divine Praise.

The workshop was organized by the Alliance Fran?aise in collaboration with the Department of Culture and facilitated by choreographer David Milome of Martinique. He was supported by team members Marie-Aude Ichane and Jean-Michel Garraud.

Dance Specialist in the Department of Culture Lorna ?Ava? Henry coordinated the one-day session. She told SKNIS that dance much like music, has cross linkages and some of the techniques associated with hip-hop mirrors traditional dance. Ms. Henry explained that participants enhanced their overall knowledge of dance and learnt new skills which will help in areas such as balance, expression and appeal.

This was reinforced by instructor Milome who stated that the local dancers had good rhythm during the workshop and did not miss a beat.

Ms. Henry noted that her department has an excellent relationship with the French institute and remains proud of the partnership it has forged with various stakeholders. She added that efforts are ongoing to strengthen key alliances.

The dance specialist also joined with Director of the Alliance Fran?aise Rita Schneider in thanking the participants for attending the dance workshop. The exchange between the two cultures was described as mutually beneficial.