Dancing to the latin beat

Bondiesta is hitting the beach suburb’s shores, bringing with it Latin culture, music and plenty of dancing.

The popular event is scheduled for Sunday February 13 at Bondi Beach. Previously known as the South American festival, the celebration of all things Latin will be driven in a new direction this year.

Festival organiser Dan Mor said: “Bondi is already a magical location so we couldn’t think of a better place to have it. We have improved the sound system, will have two main stages, and an array of bands and dancers.”

Mr Mor is the creative mind behind Sydney’s legendary white parties, and has taken the reigns as Bondiesta’s new strategic director. He is promising an uplifting, tribal and lively event.

This year the event will cater not just to the Latin community, introducing its energy to the general public.

Not to be confused with the dance focused Sydney Latin Festival which took place at Olympic Park February 2-5, Bondiesta offers a different experience to festival goers.

“It’s less serious,” said Jaime Jesus of Latin Dance Australia. “It’s an outdoor festival on the beach and has a really inclusive feel. People are more inclined to get up and dance.”

Headlining the event will be Mi Tierra, widely regarded as Australia’s leading Latin band. Afrocuban influences, house music, and a variety of DJ’s will also be performing to offer a fusion style to the festivities.

Free workshops in Latin dance including salsa, Cuban rumba, and capoeira are scheduled for those who want to learn the basics before hitting the dance floor.

Authentic food from Cuba, Brazil, and Mexico will also be available to entice the senses. With a theme of tropical colours and exotic allure and prizes on offer, organisers challenge attendees to be bold and get creative.

Sashya Jayawardena of Rhythm Brazil is thrilled to be performing at the revamped festival. She said it’s as close as Sydney gets to Brazil’s Carnival.

“I am expecting big things from this crowd. In the past they have tended to go all out and this year I am expecting even more so.”

And what about that other festival? Brazil’s Carnival follows suit, beginning February 18 in Rio Di Janero. If you ask Dan Mor and those behind Bondiesta, they’ll tell you that the party begins in Sydney.

Produced in tandem with Waverley council, Bondiesta kicks off on Sunday February 12 at 1pm. Tickets are available at the door.

By Rachel Zerr