Today I took a Modern Afro-Cuban dance class at Alvin Ailey taught by Noibis Licea. The class was unlike anything I had experienced before. We began by closing our eyes, listening to warrior-like instrumental music, and focusing on our breathing. It felt like a short meditation that helped create a grounded and focused mindset before we even started moving.
Throughout class, Noibis blended modern dance techniques—such as Graham technique and arabesques—with Afro-Cuban movement vocabulary. Some of the instruction and dance terminology were given in Spanish, which added to the authenticity of the experience. We learned several combinations, each set to a different style of music, allowing us to explore a wide range of movement qualities.
One of my favorite moments came at the end of class when we performed a combination to a song that repeatedly said gallina ("chicken"). We interpreted the choreography by embodying the movements and personality of a chicken, which made the combination both playful and memorable. We were also introduced to Makuta dance, exposing me to yet another Afro-Cuban tradition.
I will guide you on the pathway, but I will not place you.
"The Mind Is Stronger Than the Body"
Two comments from Noibis especially stayed with me. One was, "I will guide you on the pathway, but I will not place you." Although I may not remember the exact wording, I found the message incredibly motivating because it emphasized that while a teacher can provide guidance, each dancer is ultimately responsible for their own growth. He also repeatedly reminded us that "The mind is stronger than the body," encouraging us to push beyond what we believed our bodies were capable of.
Because Alvin Ailey Dance Studio has such a close-knit community, Noibis immediately recognized that both I and another adult student were new to the class. Despite being a beginner in his style, I felt welcomed throughout the experience.
Personally, I had the most fun with the turns and intricate footwork. Surprisingly, however, the most challenging part of class was not the complicated choreography—it was simply walking forward while coordinating my hips. I struggled to understand how my hips should move with each step while simultaneously shimmying. Coming from a more technical dance background, these movement patterns felt completely unfamiliar, requiring a great deal of concentration and coordination. Even though it was difficult, I enjoyed stepping outside my comfort zone and expanding my movement vocabulary through a dance style that challenged both my body and my way of thinking.