Carnaval Celebrates Latin Culture Through Dance and Music

Latin dance stormed into the Edison Theatre on Friday as Washington University's Association of Latin American Students (ALAS) presented Carnaval, a celebration of Latin culture through music and dance. More than 150 students performed 12 dances in traditional costumes.

Carnaval is in its 12th year. This year marks the sixth in which it has been held in the Edison in Clayton. It began as a small outdoor performance and is now one one of the largest student-run cultural productions at the university. ALAS does more than put on Carnaval once a year. It works to increase tolerance and diversity on campus and the community through cultural, educational and social activities.

But Friday's event was intended to be a celebration, and that's exactly what the packed house of mostly college students made it. As the program moved from tango to mariachi, from samba to flamenco, the applause was deafening and the atmosphere raucous. Students called out performers' names and broke into spirited applause at every opportunity.

The costumes with bright and bold colors were delightful, and the evening served as a primer on Latin dances, which were always performed with heart. Some of the dances stood out. The mambo, which originated in Cuba, opened the show: The gentlemen dramatically flung their hats offstage, letting the audience know that Latin dance is more about passion than anything else.

The Latin pop segment featured influences from Latin dance both past and present, including modern hip-hop. It was the most creatively staged dance of the evening: Out of nowhere, the performers broke into lusty and synchronized choreography.

A West African dance, the Mendiani, featured only females. It is traditionally performed by young women when they return from their initiation into adulthood. The West African influence on Latin culture came in part when Africans were transported to various parts of Latin America as slaves.

I didn't think the audience could get any louder until the belly dance began. The dance featured seven women dressed in authentic and skimpy belly dance costumes, and they danced rather well.

The evening also featured a skit, which tied all of the dances together. Although done in a humorous vein, it presented issues in the Latin culture regarding stereotypes and the Latin view of femininity and masculinity.

A portion of the night's proceeds went to Casa de Salud, which delivers basic health care to immigrants and refugees who are uninsured or underinsured.

It was a festive evening. The performers loved it, and the audience loved it. Just remember: If you should find yourself attending Carnaval next year, take some earplugs.