TORONTO, ON – The Toronto dance community is set to host its first “Forró Roots Weekend” on July 11–12, 2026. This Toronto edition is part of a larger tour, with upcoming stops scheduled for Montreal and Quebec City. Held at the new Tempo Dance Collective (1610A Bloor St W), this event brings world-class instruction to the city, featuring guest instructor Julie Médous from the acclaimed São Paulo-based project, Viajando Pelo Roots.
Forró Roots is a contemporary, sensitive, and interactive approach to dance rooted in legwork, musicality, and deep physical connection. Heavily influenced by the Brazilian dance Forró pé de serra with strong elements of Forró de Itaúnas, Samba de Gafieira, and Tango, this dance is a living language in constant transformation.
Workshop & Event Schedule
- Saturday, July 11 (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Foundations of Forró Roots
- Focusing on the essential evolution from Forró Universitário to Forró Roots, this session covers body mechanics, connection, and fundamental techniques.
- Level: This session is beginner-friendly.
- Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dance-workshop-foundations-of-forro-roots-saturday-tickets-1992574360551?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true
- Sunday, July 12 (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM): Forró Roots Flow: Improvisation & Creativity
- Explore the Giro Paulista, develop personal style, and master techniques in counterbalance and musical improvisation.
- Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/forro-roots-flow-workshop-improvisation-creativity-sunday-tickets-1992579095714?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true
- Sunday, July 12 (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Closing Social Dance Session
- A gathering open to the public; free for all weekend workshop participants.
- Non-participants are welcome for a $12 entry fee (purchase link to be shared via Instagram).
Inclusivity and Accessibility
This event is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming space and stands strictly against discrimination of any kind. Participants of any gender are welcome to join without a pre-arranged partner, and dancers are encouraged to choose their role (leader or follower) based on their personal preference. While the workshops are conducted in English, instructors are available to answer questions and provide guidance in Portuguese, Spanish, and French.
Collaboration and Organization
The “Forró Roots Weekend” is made possible through the collaboration of Viajando Pelo Roots, Tempo Dance Collective, the digital marketing agency Inka Digital Works, and local community builder and communications strategist, Raquel Camargo. Leveraging her expertise in digital and cultural marketing, Raquel Camargo is focused on creating opportunities where the dance community can learn, grow, and share the joy of Forró and other Brazilian cultural expressions together.
About The Instructor Julie & Viajando Pelo Roots
Founded in 2021 by Nando Gonçalves and Julie Médous, Viajando Pelo Roots is a dance, research, and cultural experience project. Since 2022, the project has established a permanent base in São Paulo, operating a specialized Forró Roots school that has grown annually.
Contact Information
For inquiries regarding private coaching sessions, social dance tickets, or general event information, please visit our Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/forro_socialdancecanada/?hl=en.