Ready to move your body and ignite your spirit? Unleash your inner dancer with Samba Nights at Tavern Blue, a 5-week immersive samba course led by acclaimed UI Professor and choreographer Armando Duarte!

Whether you're a beginner or just want to sharpen your moves, this is your chance to learn authentic samba in a fun, social setting.

📅 When: 5 consecutive weeks (one session each week)
Thursdays: Oct 23, Oct 30, Nov 6, Nov 13 | and Friday Nov 21
⏰ Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
🎟️ Registration:
• $60 per person, per class
• $250 per person for the full course

What’s Included:
- Lively sessions of authentic Samba training
- A complimentary drink at each class to set the mood or an appetizer
- A grand finale performance by YOU and your fellow dancers on our stage (Sunday, Nov 23). 

📌 We highly recommend attending at least 3 classes to truly learn the moves and fully enjoy the experience.

Limited spots available! Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unique blend of culture, music, and movement. Feel the Rhythm of Brazil at Tavern Blue! 🇧🇷

About the Instructor:
Armando Duarte is a Brazilian-American choreographer, professor at the University of Iowa, and internationally recognized researcher of Brazilian popular culture. With over 90 original choreographies and deep expertise in samba and Carnival traditions, Armando brings both academic depth and vibrant energy to every class. He has also led groups of UI students to experience the making of the Brazilian Carnival Parades and the African-Brazilian diaspora in dance, music, and street performances in the cities of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Brazil.

What is Samba de Gafieira?
Samba de Gafieira is an elegant and joyful partner dance, and an expressive Brazilian social dance that blends Afro-Brazilian rhythms with European ballroom traditions. Born in Rio de Janeiro in the early 20th century, it's more than a collection of dance steps; Samba de Gafieira practice encompasses essential elements such as tempo, rhythm, coordination, and weight-shifting

You don’t need a partner to join us, and dancers regularly rotate partners during class. It’s a dynamic blend of rhythm, creativity, and fun, often incorporating solo steps from “Samba no Pé” (Carnival Style) and similar to other Latin forms such as Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, etc.

Whether you’re here for the music, the movement, or the cultural experience, Samba de Gafieira offers an energetic way to connect with others, stay active, and explore Brazil’s vibrant dance heritage.

Cancellations & Refunds: Tavern Blue reserves the right to cancel or reschedule this event if the minimum number of participants is not met, or in the case of unforeseen circumstances such as inclement weather or venue closures. In such cases, all payments will be refunded.

Please note: participant cancellations are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, your ticket may be transferred to another guest by contacting us in advance.