"Salouwe Legba" RASANBLE! 2013
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Rara Tou Limen Dance Company
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This vibrant festival celebrates Haitian arts and culture through dance workshops, music, art exhibitions, academic presentations, a spiritual Vodou Ceremony, delicious cuisine, and more!
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Haitian traditions and experiences that will leave you inspired and enlightened.
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RASANBLE! is not just a festival; it's a transformative journey.
From the rhythmic beats of the Haitian drums to the graceful movements of the Folkloric Dance, every aspect is carefully curated to captivate your senses and nourish your soul.
Witness the captivating GODMAMA: Great Mother of Power Photo Exhibition that beautifully
portrays the essence of Haitian culture and history.
From the rhythmic beats of the Haitian drums to the graceful movements of the Folkloric Dance, every aspect is carefully curated to captivate your senses and nourish your soul.
Witness the captivating GODMAMA: Great Mother of Power Photo Exhibition that beautifully
portrays the essence of Haitian culture and history.
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This festival is a celebration of heritage, creativity, and community. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to Haitian arts and culture, RASANBLE! offers something for everyone. It's a space where academia meets creativity, and tradition embraces innovation. Mark your calendars and get ready for an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Thursday, September 21
Richmond, CA
Friday, September 22
Oakland, CA
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Join Rara Tou Limen as we open RASANBLE! with a night of DANCE, MUSIC, ACADEMIA,
FASHION & PHOTOGRAPHY!
Hosted by: SISTA NAU T
featuring:
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In Haitian Vodou, spirits impact Black people’s everyday lives, removing any divides between the sacred and the secular and manifesting in vivid, creative displays of ceremonial fashion.
Dr. Eziaku Atuama Nwokocha’s book, Vodou en Vogue, pioneers a new path in Vodou, Anthropology, and Africana studies, providing poignant connections between fashion and the senses through a Black feminist ethnographic study. Through insights gained from over a decade of participant observation in contemporary Vodou ceremonies in Montreal, New York, Miami, Boston, Port-au-Prince and Jacmel, Dr. Nwokocha illustrates how, within the religious and social life of Vodou, fashion contributes to transnational communal identity formation in the African Diaspora.
This special book presentation spotlights Haitian Vodou priestess, Manbo Marie Maude Evans of Sosyete Nago, while illuminating the book’s key interventions in spirit possession, material culture, labor, gender, race and sexuality in Haitian Vodou. |
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GODmama: Great Mother of Power
PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION featuring the work of Woosler Delisfort "My latest projects focus on spirituality, but more specifically, understanding the role priestesses of Vodun, Santeria, and Ifa occupy within their communities. I have been documenting ceremonies and noticed the many roles the priestess serve during ceremonies. Through further research and observation, I’ve learned the power of priestess to conjure ancestral energies through chant, music, dance, and drumming. These women also serve as spiritual leaders who nurture communities as earthly mothers. I’ve had the honor to document and partake in various ceremonies where I’ve unearthed elements of saced Vodun art, music and dance."
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Manbo Dr. Charlene Désir
to deliver 2023 Keynote
We are pleased to announce Manbo Dr. Charlene Désir
as our 2023 keynote speaker for RASANBLE! Haitian Arts & Culture Festival!
Read BIO Below
as our 2023 keynote speaker for RASANBLE! Haitian Arts & Culture Festival!
Read BIO Below
Saturday, September 23 ~ Sunday, September 24
Berkeley, CA
PRE-SALE TICKETS
RASANBLE!
Guest Artists
Manbo Dr. Kyrah Malika Daniels
Academic Presentation
Kyrah Malika Daniels is an Assistant Professor of African American Studies at Emory University. She completed her B.A. in Africana Studies from Stanford University, and earned her M.A. in Religion and her Ph.D. in African & African American Studies at Harvard University. Professor Daniels teaches courses on Africana religions and art history, material culture and museum studies, and race, religion, and representation. Her research centers on African derived religions, sacred arts, religious initiation and conversion, and ritual healing traditions in the Black Atlantic. For the 2019-2020 academic year, she was awarded a Getty/ACLS Postdoctoral Fellowship in the History of Art.
Daniels is currently completing a book tentatively titled Art of the Healing Gods: Illness, Imbalance & Sacred Arts of the Black Atlantic, a comparative religion project that examines ritual art traditions and religious healing legacies of Kongo-derived communities in Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo (Congo-Kinshasa). The book investigates how sacred art objects mediate relationships between humans and spirits in healing ceremonies to treat spiritual illness and imbalance holistically. Daniels' work has been published in the Journal of Africana Religions, Meridians: Feminism, Race, Transnationalism, the Journal of Haitian Studies, and the Journal for the American Academy of Religion.
Between 2009-2010, Daniels served as Junior Curator at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. Following the earthquake of 2010, she worked in St. Raphael, Haiti, with Lakou Solèy Academic and Cultural Arts Center, a grassroots organization that develops arts-based pedagogy. Previously, she held the first appointment dedicated to African religious heritage traditions and African and African Diaspora art history at Boston College. Daniels currently serves as Leadership Council Member for the African and Diasporic Religious Studies Association (ADRSA) and as Vice President for KOSANBA, the Scholarly Association for the Study of Haitian Vodou.
Daniels is currently completing a book tentatively titled Art of the Healing Gods: Illness, Imbalance & Sacred Arts of the Black Atlantic, a comparative religion project that examines ritual art traditions and religious healing legacies of Kongo-derived communities in Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo (Congo-Kinshasa). The book investigates how sacred art objects mediate relationships between humans and spirits in healing ceremonies to treat spiritual illness and imbalance holistically. Daniels' work has been published in the Journal of Africana Religions, Meridians: Feminism, Race, Transnationalism, the Journal of Haitian Studies, and the Journal for the American Academy of Religion.
Between 2009-2010, Daniels served as Junior Curator at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. Following the earthquake of 2010, she worked in St. Raphael, Haiti, with Lakou Solèy Academic and Cultural Arts Center, a grassroots organization that develops arts-based pedagogy. Previously, she held the first appointment dedicated to African religious heritage traditions and African and African Diaspora art history at Boston College. Daniels currently serves as Leadership Council Member for the African and Diasporic Religious Studies Association (ADRSA) and as Vice President for KOSANBA, the Scholarly Association for the Study of Haitian Vodou.
Woosler Delisfort
GodMama Photo Exhibition
Woosler Delisfort is an award winning documentary photographer and filmmaker. His latest project titled: GODmama: Great Mother of Power, is a documentary series with a focus on the intersectionality of afro-spiritual traditions of the African Diaspora and the essential role of women, specifically prevalent in the ceremonies of Vodou, Santeria, and IFA traditions found in Haiti, Cuba, Brazil, Jamaica, Benin, Nigeria, and throughout the U.S.
Storytelling is an integral component of Delisfort’s work as it depicts truth, authenticity, and the exploration of self and the unexplored. Fundamentally, it is an opportunity to connect with the core principles that affect the collective human spirit.
Delisfort, a native of Miami- born, raised and residing in the community of Little Haiti. He has dedicated the past decade capturing the energies driving the human experiences, aesthetics, sounds and rhythms of Miami’s Haitian community in Little Haiti. Such passion is evident in his commitment to building communities through photographic documentary partnerships, empowering the local youths to tell their own stories through their experiences and perspectives via his current fellowship with the HistoryMiami Museum.
Delisfort's past creative work, research and outreach has been supported by the Miami Foundation, HistoryMiami Museum Center for Photography, Bakehouse Art Complex,Oolites and IPC ArtSpace . Also a board member of Haitian Cultural Arts Alliance's.
Storytelling is an integral component of Delisfort’s work as it depicts truth, authenticity, and the exploration of self and the unexplored. Fundamentally, it is an opportunity to connect with the core principles that affect the collective human spirit.
Delisfort, a native of Miami- born, raised and residing in the community of Little Haiti. He has dedicated the past decade capturing the energies driving the human experiences, aesthetics, sounds and rhythms of Miami’s Haitian community in Little Haiti. Such passion is evident in his commitment to building communities through photographic documentary partnerships, empowering the local youths to tell their own stories through their experiences and perspectives via his current fellowship with the HistoryMiami Museum.
Delisfort's past creative work, research and outreach has been supported by the Miami Foundation, HistoryMiami Museum Center for Photography, Bakehouse Art Complex,Oolites and IPC ArtSpace . Also a board member of Haitian Cultural Arts Alliance's.
Manbo Dr. Charlene Désir
Keynote Speaker
Dr. Charlene Désir is committed to the healthy academic, psycho-social, and spiritual development of immigrant and disenfranchised people. Her primary area of focus is providing assistance and guidance for personal, academic, and professional mastery through support programs, lectures, and providing mentorship and coaching.
Dr. Désir received her doctorate from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Her academic interests include the social, psychological, and spiritual adjustment of immigrant students in public schools. Dr. Désir’s work takes a look at school social curriculum, psycho-social trauma occurring in schools, and how psycho-social issues affect students’ cognitive ability and spiritual development. Dr. Désir has presented various papers on the topic of immigrant students and their adjustment to life in the United States. She has published numerous journal articles and papers on the topic of immigrant identity, spirituality, and becoming a reflective researcher.
Dr. Désir founded The Empowerment Network (TEN) Global, a non-profit organization that supports the personal, spiritual, and academic development of women and students in Haiti and U.S. In 2012, she served as president of the Haitian Studies Association and was appointed, by Governor Rick Scott, to the Children’s Services Council in Broward County, Florida. Throughout her career, Dr. Désir has worked as a school psychologist, K-12 school counselor, school administrator for district and charter schools, and an academic advisor and professor.
Nadia Dieudonné
Haitian Dance
Nadia Dieudonné is a veteran traditional Haitian dancer, choreographer and a certified teacher for the New York City Department of Education. She received her MA in Dance Education from New York University and MA in TESOL from Grand Canon University. Nadia is the founder of Feet of Rhythm Haitian Dance Company, which specializes, in Haitian folkloric dances. Mentored by Jean León Destiné, Haitian dance icon Nadia has worked along side him as a performer and assistant teacher. At the age of twelve she was performing with the well-known Haitian folk singer and activist Myriam Dorismé. Nadia is regarded as one of the best Banda dancers outside of Haiti. Her expertise comes out of her diligent study of the folkloric heritage of Haitian dance. She honed her skills by attending several Lakous (communities that preserve and practice specific Vodou ceremonies) in the countryside and in reputable dance schools with esteemed dancers/teachers in Port-au-Prince and New York.
As part Nadia’s commitment to preserve Haitian culture, a Children's Program & Dance Company was created to introduce and educate underserved youth to the vibrant Haitian culture. Since its founding she has diligently extended her services to underserved youths within the public schools, community based organizations, and daycare centers in the tristate area. In recognition of her work she has been awarded by Council Member Jummane Williams with a NYC Proclamation for her commitment to the youths (May, 2014). Nadia has conducted adult master classes at many prestigious institutions such as New York University-NYC, City College-San Francisco, State University-San Francisco, Lincoln Center-NYC, Jacobs Pillow-MA (assistant to Jean-León Destiné), Lincoln Center Mid Summer Night Swing- NYC, The Katherine Dunham Dance Institute-NYC and Alvin Ailey NYC(as a substitute instructor).
As a performing artist Nadia has also danced with many acclaimed dance companies and musical bands that preserve various cultures from the African Diaspora such as Dinizulu African dancers, drummers and singers La Troupe Makandal, Charles Moore Dance Theater; Oyu Oro Afro-Cuban Dance Ensemble, Forces of Nature, Tabou Combo; Rara Machine, Bolou Valcourt & Azor to name a few. In 1994, she was one of the principal dancers in the Rolling Stones Voodoo Lounge Tour. Nadia’s vocation has allowed her to be commissioned to perform throughout the US and abroad: Canada, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Holland, Japan and Trinidad.
As part Nadia’s commitment to preserve Haitian culture, a Children's Program & Dance Company was created to introduce and educate underserved youth to the vibrant Haitian culture. Since its founding she has diligently extended her services to underserved youths within the public schools, community based organizations, and daycare centers in the tristate area. In recognition of her work she has been awarded by Council Member Jummane Williams with a NYC Proclamation for her commitment to the youths (May, 2014). Nadia has conducted adult master classes at many prestigious institutions such as New York University-NYC, City College-San Francisco, State University-San Francisco, Lincoln Center-NYC, Jacobs Pillow-MA (assistant to Jean-León Destiné), Lincoln Center Mid Summer Night Swing- NYC, The Katherine Dunham Dance Institute-NYC and Alvin Ailey NYC(as a substitute instructor).
As a performing artist Nadia has also danced with many acclaimed dance companies and musical bands that preserve various cultures from the African Diaspora such as Dinizulu African dancers, drummers and singers La Troupe Makandal, Charles Moore Dance Theater; Oyu Oro Afro-Cuban Dance Ensemble, Forces of Nature, Tabou Combo; Rara Machine, Bolou Valcourt & Azor to name a few. In 1994, she was one of the principal dancers in the Rolling Stones Voodoo Lounge Tour. Nadia’s vocation has allowed her to be commissioned to perform throughout the US and abroad: Canada, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Holland, Japan and Trinidad.
Jean-Sebastien Duvilaire |
Haitian Dance + Vodou Song Workshop
Jean-Sebastien Duvilaire (Babbas) is a Haitian Artist and Houngan who strongly believes in the use of the performing arts to trigger social change. He has trained in African and Afro-Haitian techniques, as well as in classical ballet, modern, and contemporary dance. Babbas has worked with many artists internationally, and travels to teach, choreograph, and collaborate with artists throughout the U.S., the Caribbean, and West Africa. He is the founder of the AfrikAyiti Project, and always wishes to promote Africa together with Haiti in sharing his culture wherever he teaches or performs. He recently moved to Boston, where he has worked with JAE/Jean Appolon Expressions before deciding to continue his work independently from the company.
For now, Jean-Sebastien continues to teach, travel, and choreograph, pursue study of Vodou, and runs a small cacao processing company in Haiti called Tahomey Chocolate. His commitment to cultural sustainability is mirrored in his work with Tahomey Chocolate, which employs and networks small-scale cacao farmers in rural Haiti.
For now, Jean-Sebastien continues to teach, travel, and choreograph, pursue study of Vodou, and runs a small cacao processing company in Haiti called Tahomey Chocolate. His commitment to cultural sustainability is mirrored in his work with Tahomey Chocolate, which employs and networks small-scale cacao farmers in rural Haiti.
Manbo Marie Maude Evans
Vodou en Vogue Book Release + Presentation
Manbo Marie Maude Evans was born in Jacmel, Haiti. She moved to the United States in the 1900s, and currently resides in Mattapan, Massachusetts. She graduated from Lesley University with a Masters in Mental Health Counseling, in addition, she has also attained degrees in Economics and Fashion Design as well. She currently works as a health supervisor for CAAS Head Start in Somerville, a mental health clinician in the Greater Boston area, a mother of three, and a practicing Vodou Priestess. Manbo Maude is not only a staple in her community, but she is also a representative of Haitian Vodou across the United States. She has given talks and conducted ceremonies at numerous colleges, including but not restricted to: Harvard University, Brown University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Vermont, Boston University, Duke University, and University of California Los Angeles. Alongside giving talks, she also performs rituals year-round in Boston and in Haiti, which include ceremonies, healing rituals, divinations, initiations, spiritual weddings, and spiritual healings. Manbo Maude is truly an iconic figure in Haitian Vodou, being able to overcome adversity and become an influential figure to uplift the name of Vodou not only in her direct community, but globally as well.
Manbo Marie Maude Evans believes in the sustaining power of her spiritual tradition and welcomes all who show a genuine interest to serve at her side. In an effort to combat the prejudice towards Vodou, Maude chooses to speak openly about her faith and to share its beauty as well as her vision of hope for the tradition. She teaches us that Vodou, like many of the world’s practices, is about balance and reciprocity, and as Vodouizan, we should put out that which we hope to receive and respect all living things.
Manbo Marie Maude Evans believes in the sustaining power of her spiritual tradition and welcomes all who show a genuine interest to serve at her side. In an effort to combat the prejudice towards Vodou, Maude chooses to speak openly about her faith and to share its beauty as well as her vision of hope for the tradition. She teaches us that Vodou, like many of the world’s practices, is about balance and reciprocity, and as Vodouizan, we should put out that which we hope to receive and respect all living things.
Pierre-Richard Leurbourg
Haitian Dance + Chef
Born and raised in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Pierre-Richard Leurbourg began his dance career at the age of 10, under Haitian Folklore teacher, Peniel Guerrier. Pierre-Richard developed his talent and skills as a young dancer and studied many dance styles such as Jazz, Ballet, Modern, and Salsa. At the age of 15, Pierre became a member of the Ballet Baccoulou Dance Company, Centre de Danse, and Tamboula Dance Company.
In the 20 years with both Baccoulou Dance Company and Tamboula, Pierre-Richard traveled and performed in the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Japan, Hungary, Miami, Canada, and New York. In Haiti, Pierre taught dance classes in Enarts and the Centre de Danse.
Since moving to New York in 2006, Pierre-Richard has performed in Kriye Bode and taught dance class at the Djoniba Dance and Drum Centre, Ailvin Ailey Extension, PMT Dance Studio, and the Ripley Grier Dance Studio. Dance is a major part of Pierre-Richards life and he continues to serve as an ambassador of Haitian Folklore dance.
In the 20 years with both Baccoulou Dance Company and Tamboula, Pierre-Richard traveled and performed in the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Japan, Hungary, Miami, Canada, and New York. In Haiti, Pierre taught dance classes in Enarts and the Centre de Danse.
Since moving to New York in 2006, Pierre-Richard has performed in Kriye Bode and taught dance class at the Djoniba Dance and Drum Centre, Ailvin Ailey Extension, PMT Dance Studio, and the Ripley Grier Dance Studio. Dance is a major part of Pierre-Richards life and he continues to serve as an ambassador of Haitian Folklore dance.
Dr. Eziaku Atuama Nwokocha |
Scholar, Author, Vodou en Vogue Book Release + Presentation
Eziaku Nwokocha is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Miami. She is a scholar of Africana religions with expertise in the ethnographic study of Vodou in Haiti and the Haitian diaspora. Her research is grounded in gender and sexuality studies, visual and material culture and Africana Studies. Previously, Nwokocha held a position as a Presidential Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Religion at Princeton University and a Visiting Fellow at the Center for Culture, Society and Religion at Princeton. She obtained a Ph.D. with distinction in Africana studies from the University of Pennsylvania, a Master’s degree in Africana studies from the University of Pennsylvania, a Master’s degree in Theological studies from Harvard Divinity School, and a Bachelor’s degree in Black studies and Feminist studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Nwokocha was a Ford Predoctoral Fellow during her PhD and Ronald E McNair Scholar as an undergraduate.
She is the author of Vodou en Vogue: Fashioning Black Divinities in Haiti and the United States (University of North Carolina Press, 2023), an ethnographic study of fashion, spirit possession, and gender and sexuality in contemporary Haitian Vodou, exploring Black religious communities through their innovative ceremonial practices. The book is featured within the series Where Religion Lives.
She is the author of Vodou en Vogue: Fashioning Black Divinities in Haiti and the United States (University of North Carolina Press, 2023), an ethnographic study of fashion, spirit possession, and gender and sexuality in contemporary Haitian Vodou, exploring Black religious communities through their innovative ceremonial practices. The book is featured within the series Where Religion Lives.
Jeff Pierre
Lead Drummer + Haitian Drum Workshop
Jeff Pierre born and raised in Port-au-Prince Haiti, grew up surrounded by traditional Haitian drumming, dance and song in his mother's company. This is where he first fell in love with music and learned to drum. Jeff has been traveling the world sharing the beauty, complexity and Funkyness of Haitian Drumming.
Listening to music on the radio, Jeff became fascinated and curious on how electronic music is made. This is what inspired him to explore the world of electronic music. Jeff's music is a blend of magical melodies, Fun, Nature, Haiti and Grooviness. Jeff has brought Haitian culture to arenas and his work has been featured in tv shows and films.
Jeff's goal is to put out loving energy and inspire others so we can create a happier, simpler and more loving world.
Listening to music on the radio, Jeff became fascinated and curious on how electronic music is made. This is what inspired him to explore the world of electronic music. Jeff's music is a blend of magical melodies, Fun, Nature, Haiti and Grooviness. Jeff has brought Haitian culture to arenas and his work has been featured in tv shows and films.
Jeff's goal is to put out loving energy and inspire others so we can create a happier, simpler and more loving world.
Manbo Taleah Pierre-Louis
Vocalist, Scholar, Activist
Manbo Vante’m Pa Fye’m is one of Manbo Maude’s biological children. She has been fortunate enough to be chosen by the Lwa before birth. From a very young age the spirits have prepared her and announced her destiny of becoming a manbo. Manbo Vante’m Pa Fye’m grew up watching her mother and the rest of Sosyete Nago cultivate and build the community to what it is now – from ceremonies and rituals to magic work, and even witnessing the birth of other endeavors inspired by members of the house. Since doing kanzo in 2018, Vante’m Pa Fye’m studies under and works alongside Manbo Maude and assists her in all matters concerning Sosyete Nago and related projects with the intention of continuing her mother’s legacy.
Apart from that, Manbo Vante’m Pa Fye’m is very involved in her community in any capacity that she can be with her diverse skillset. Her hobbies include dancing and singing, which she chooses to do part time while establishing her professional career.
Apart from that, Manbo Vante’m Pa Fye’m is very involved in her community in any capacity that she can be with her diverse skillset. Her hobbies include dancing and singing, which she chooses to do part time while establishing her professional career.
Rara Tou Limen
Ritual Theater
Accompanied by dancers, vocalists and celebrated musicians, the company brings to the stage a wide spectrum of diverse Haitian dance forms, from vibrant rituals of Vodou, the turbulent legacy of political struggle, to the celebratory and festive dances of Carnival, Rara Tou Limen is at the cutting edge of the evolution of Haitian dance and music in the Bay Area. The use of traditional rhythms, chants and movement integrates the grace, strength, fluidity and precision of Haitian folkloric dance.
Established in 2004 by Artistic Director Portsha Terae Jefferson, Rara Tou Limen has continually offered Bay Area residents, as well as people from all over the United States, the opportunity to experience Haitian music, dance and culture through classes, workshops, performances and educational events in both the United States and in Haiti. Our mission is to educate audiences about the richness of Haitian culture through artistic expression, while building and enhancing working relationships with other Haitian cultural groups in the U.S. and Haiti. The company is carrying on the long legacy of creating strength and solidarity within the Haitian community, while actively raising awareness (and funds) for Haitian organizations.
Our objective is to help nurture and grow Haitian dance and musical traditions in the Bay Area. The company is committed to showcasing the best of folkloric dance and music, which carries in it the stories, struggles, and spirit of the first free Black Republic in the world. Rara Tou Limen continues to uplift a country whose culture has increasingly sustained the Bay Area's artistic community and beyond.
In celebration of Rara Tou Limen’s 10th Anniversary, the dance & music ensemble traveled to Haiti (August 2014) for a two week adventure! Company members participated in folkloric dance workshops at Ecole Nationale des Arts (ENARTS) with celebrated instructors, and visited natural and historical landmarks to investigate and research Haitian cultural traditions. In addition, RTL presented their full-length artistic offering, Limyè pou Ayiti... Lavi Kontinyè! In 2016, the company traveled to Montreal, Canada to perform in TWA, an artistic collaboration with celebrated Haitian dance companies, Mapou Ginen and Sole Danse Traditionnelle Moderne, celebrating the 225th anniversary of Bwa Kayiman. in 2017, Rara Tou Limen embarked on a cultural exchange to Havana, Cuba to participate in a dance intensive program that focused on technical training in Afro Cuban dance styles, Yoruba/Lucumí traditions and Cuban-Haitian traditions. In 2018, company participants traveled to New Orleans to research Street Festivals and Performance, and the cross-cultural influences of Second Lines in NOLA and Rara Bands in Haiti. Vodou Voyages to Benin West Africa (2019, 2023) provided the company access to train, research, and study Beninese sacred dances & musical traditions to deepen knowledge and understanding of Vodoun traditions, as they relate to Haitian Vodou.
Established in 2004 by Artistic Director Portsha Terae Jefferson, Rara Tou Limen has continually offered Bay Area residents, as well as people from all over the United States, the opportunity to experience Haitian music, dance and culture through classes, workshops, performances and educational events in both the United States and in Haiti. Our mission is to educate audiences about the richness of Haitian culture through artistic expression, while building and enhancing working relationships with other Haitian cultural groups in the U.S. and Haiti. The company is carrying on the long legacy of creating strength and solidarity within the Haitian community, while actively raising awareness (and funds) for Haitian organizations.
Our objective is to help nurture and grow Haitian dance and musical traditions in the Bay Area. The company is committed to showcasing the best of folkloric dance and music, which carries in it the stories, struggles, and spirit of the first free Black Republic in the world. Rara Tou Limen continues to uplift a country whose culture has increasingly sustained the Bay Area's artistic community and beyond.
In celebration of Rara Tou Limen’s 10th Anniversary, the dance & music ensemble traveled to Haiti (August 2014) for a two week adventure! Company members participated in folkloric dance workshops at Ecole Nationale des Arts (ENARTS) with celebrated instructors, and visited natural and historical landmarks to investigate and research Haitian cultural traditions. In addition, RTL presented their full-length artistic offering, Limyè pou Ayiti... Lavi Kontinyè! In 2016, the company traveled to Montreal, Canada to perform in TWA, an artistic collaboration with celebrated Haitian dance companies, Mapou Ginen and Sole Danse Traditionnelle Moderne, celebrating the 225th anniversary of Bwa Kayiman. in 2017, Rara Tou Limen embarked on a cultural exchange to Havana, Cuba to participate in a dance intensive program that focused on technical training in Afro Cuban dance styles, Yoruba/Lucumí traditions and Cuban-Haitian traditions. In 2018, company participants traveled to New Orleans to research Street Festivals and Performance, and the cross-cultural influences of Second Lines in NOLA and Rara Bands in Haiti. Vodou Voyages to Benin West Africa (2019, 2023) provided the company access to train, research, and study Beninese sacred dances & musical traditions to deepen knowledge and understanding of Vodoun traditions, as they relate to Haitian Vodou.
Rachel Tavernier
Lecture + Dunham Technique Workshop
Rachel Tavernier was born in Port-au-Prince, Haïti, where she started dancing at the age of 5. She received her primary training at the Lavinia Williams Dance Institute, under Madame Lavinia Williams and Ms Viviane Gauthier. There, she studied Ballet, Haitian Folklore, Modern and Tap, and had the opportunity to work with renowned dancers such as Sarah Yarborough, Salvatore Aiello, Alec Zybin, Geoffrey Holder.
At the age of 13, Rachel enrolled at the Gertrude Bouda Dance School, where she deepened her knowledge of and passion for Ballet. At 17, she received a scholarship to study in Stuttgart, Germany, at the John Cranko School. She trained there at the State Ballet Academy under Anne Woolliams and Jürgen Schneider.
Upon returning home, Rachel began teaching and subsequently opened the Rachel Jean-Louis Dance School in Pétion-Ville, Haïti, which she directed for 15 years before immigrating to the United States. While running her dance studio, she took numerous classes and workshops, and attended seminars and conferences to hone her skills as a dancer and as a teacher. In 1988, Rachel was chosen to represent Haïti at the American Dance Festival’s International Choreographers Residency Program.
In 1982, she discovered the Dunham Technique, while attending the dance conference Modern Dance in the Americas: Black Influence in Port-au-Prince, Haïti. Theodore Jamison had been her first introduction to this unique dance technique. Until Katherine Dunham’s death in 2006, Rachel trained directly under her in Port-au-Prince, East St Louis and New York. She also studied extensively with former Dunham Company members and Master Teachers, such as Vanoye Aikens, Lucille Ellis, Tommy Gomez, Pearl Reynolds, Talley Beatty, Walter Nicks, Archie Savage.
In 1999, Katherine Dunham named Rachel a Master Teacher in Dunham Technique. As well, Rachel earned her teacher certification from the Institute for Dunham Technique Certification in 2000. She served as a demonstrator for Katherine Dunham numerous times, in Port-au-Prince, Philadelphia, Washington DC, East St Louis, and New York. She has taught master classes in New York (Ailey School, NYCBOE Dunham Institute, CUMBE), Philadelphia (Philadanco), East St Louis (Dunham Seminar), St Louis (Dunham Seminar), Santiago de Cuba. She has also demonstrated for Julie Belafonte, former member of the Dunham Company, in Montevideo, Uruguay. During the pandemic and since then, Rachel has taught virtual Master classes for several Universities, Colleges and dance organizations, with the goal of perpetuating the Dunham Legacy.
As an instructor and a consultant, Rachel was a collaborator on the 2002 Library of Congress documentary about Dunham Technique. Presently, Rachel is on the Board of Directors of the Institute for Dunham Technique Certification (IDTC), as co-director and chair of the Technique Committee. She is an integral member of IDTC, contributing to the annual Dunham Technique Conference as a visionary, organizer and teacher.
At the age of 13, Rachel enrolled at the Gertrude Bouda Dance School, where she deepened her knowledge of and passion for Ballet. At 17, she received a scholarship to study in Stuttgart, Germany, at the John Cranko School. She trained there at the State Ballet Academy under Anne Woolliams and Jürgen Schneider.
Upon returning home, Rachel began teaching and subsequently opened the Rachel Jean-Louis Dance School in Pétion-Ville, Haïti, which she directed for 15 years before immigrating to the United States. While running her dance studio, she took numerous classes and workshops, and attended seminars and conferences to hone her skills as a dancer and as a teacher. In 1988, Rachel was chosen to represent Haïti at the American Dance Festival’s International Choreographers Residency Program.
In 1982, she discovered the Dunham Technique, while attending the dance conference Modern Dance in the Americas: Black Influence in Port-au-Prince, Haïti. Theodore Jamison had been her first introduction to this unique dance technique. Until Katherine Dunham’s death in 2006, Rachel trained directly under her in Port-au-Prince, East St Louis and New York. She also studied extensively with former Dunham Company members and Master Teachers, such as Vanoye Aikens, Lucille Ellis, Tommy Gomez, Pearl Reynolds, Talley Beatty, Walter Nicks, Archie Savage.
In 1999, Katherine Dunham named Rachel a Master Teacher in Dunham Technique. As well, Rachel earned her teacher certification from the Institute for Dunham Technique Certification in 2000. She served as a demonstrator for Katherine Dunham numerous times, in Port-au-Prince, Philadelphia, Washington DC, East St Louis, and New York. She has taught master classes in New York (Ailey School, NYCBOE Dunham Institute, CUMBE), Philadelphia (Philadanco), East St Louis (Dunham Seminar), St Louis (Dunham Seminar), Santiago de Cuba. She has also demonstrated for Julie Belafonte, former member of the Dunham Company, in Montevideo, Uruguay. During the pandemic and since then, Rachel has taught virtual Master classes for several Universities, Colleges and dance organizations, with the goal of perpetuating the Dunham Legacy.
As an instructor and a consultant, Rachel was a collaborator on the 2002 Library of Congress documentary about Dunham Technique. Presently, Rachel is on the Board of Directors of the Institute for Dunham Technique Certification (IDTC), as co-director and chair of the Technique Committee. She is an integral member of IDTC, contributing to the annual Dunham Technique Conference as a visionary, organizer and teacher.
Portsha T. Jefferson
(Zetwal Ashade Bon Manbo)
Producer, RASANBLE! Haitian Arts & Culture Festival
Portsha Terae Jefferson has a 25 year history of performance, choreography, research & travel passionately rooted in African/Caribbean dance, drumming and spiritual traditions. Hailing from a blazed Dance trek, her Dancestory is truly emblazoned by that of Ancestral commission. She began her formal training at the age of six at the Marsha Woody Dance Academy in Beaumont, Texas. Often nurtured by Bay Area Dance luminaries Lynn Coles and Blanche Brown to name a few, to Haitian Dance Masters such as Pioneer Vivianne Gauthier, Cadet Jean Evens, Metayer Frantz, Ramses Pierre, and Emmanuel Louis, with consistent training at Ecole Nationale de Artes [ENARTS], transcended through the establishment of Rara Tou Limen Haitian Performing Company in 2004, Oakland, California.
As a cultural practitioner and visionary, Ms. Jefferson's dedication and exploration of Haitian culture have brought her to Haiti, where she has traveled throughout the country to research regional dance, rhythms and musical traditions since 2003. Specific interest and concentration of study took place in Gonaives at Lakou Badjo, where Nago (Yoruba) traditions are preserved, and at Tanp Souvenance Mistik, a Vodou community that celebrates it's Rada (ancient kingdom of Dahomey) heritage. Ms.Jefferson's visionary Artistic leadership and RTL Company's unforgettable presentations, classes, workshops, festivals and retreats, have garnered her the attention as respected colleague and established cultural gatekeeper, forging new trailways through ancient traditions -- staying true to the sojourn carving pathways for many to flourish crossing boundaries and dimensions in the Dance.
A passionate believer in education and youth development, she has worked for several youth organizations including
The Young Performers Theater, The San Francisco Arts Education Project, Westlake School of the Arts, Opera
Picolla, DanceVersity, Swivel Arts, and Music In Schools Today (MUST). Ms. Jefferson has taught creative movement and Haitian Folkloric dance in schools, universities, community centers and dance studios for over twenty years.
Ms. Jefferson was a principle dancer and vocalist with Group Petit La Croix (1996-2003) under the leadership of veteran dancer and educator Blanche Brown. She has been fortunate and blessed to grace the stage with Reconnect, Ase Dance Theater Collective, Feet of Rhythm and El Wah Movement. In Haiti, she has had the privilege to perform with Compagnie Culturelle Des Arts and Ayiti Dans Ansanm (ADA). Guest performances with Afro-Cuban companies include: EMESE: Messengers of the African Diaspora, along with Jose Francisco Barroso & Obakoso.
Ms. Jefferson’s artistic and educational work has been supported by grants and awards including: Alliance for California Traditional Arts (ACTA), AKONADI Foundation, American Folklore Society, FOKAL - Fondasyon Konesans Ak Libète, William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, Zellerbach Family Foundation, Theatre Bay Area - CA$H Grant, and The Eastbay Community Foundation.
Ms. Jefferson has served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of California at Berkeley, Conservatory for Contemporary Dance Arts (CCD) and is an artist in residence for Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond and SF Unified School District. In addition, she is an instructor at Dance Mission Theater and the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts. She also serves as a Cultural Arts Specialist with Oakland Parks and Recreation where she continues to share her love of dance with Oakland youth.
As a cultural practitioner and visionary, Ms. Jefferson's dedication and exploration of Haitian culture have brought her to Haiti, where she has traveled throughout the country to research regional dance, rhythms and musical traditions since 2003. Specific interest and concentration of study took place in Gonaives at Lakou Badjo, where Nago (Yoruba) traditions are preserved, and at Tanp Souvenance Mistik, a Vodou community that celebrates it's Rada (ancient kingdom of Dahomey) heritage. Ms.Jefferson's visionary Artistic leadership and RTL Company's unforgettable presentations, classes, workshops, festivals and retreats, have garnered her the attention as respected colleague and established cultural gatekeeper, forging new trailways through ancient traditions -- staying true to the sojourn carving pathways for many to flourish crossing boundaries and dimensions in the Dance.
A passionate believer in education and youth development, she has worked for several youth organizations including
The Young Performers Theater, The San Francisco Arts Education Project, Westlake School of the Arts, Opera
Picolla, DanceVersity, Swivel Arts, and Music In Schools Today (MUST). Ms. Jefferson has taught creative movement and Haitian Folkloric dance in schools, universities, community centers and dance studios for over twenty years.
Ms. Jefferson was a principle dancer and vocalist with Group Petit La Croix (1996-2003) under the leadership of veteran dancer and educator Blanche Brown. She has been fortunate and blessed to grace the stage with Reconnect, Ase Dance Theater Collective, Feet of Rhythm and El Wah Movement. In Haiti, she has had the privilege to perform with Compagnie Culturelle Des Arts and Ayiti Dans Ansanm (ADA). Guest performances with Afro-Cuban companies include: EMESE: Messengers of the African Diaspora, along with Jose Francisco Barroso & Obakoso.
Ms. Jefferson’s artistic and educational work has been supported by grants and awards including: Alliance for California Traditional Arts (ACTA), AKONADI Foundation, American Folklore Society, FOKAL - Fondasyon Konesans Ak Libète, William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, Zellerbach Family Foundation, Theatre Bay Area - CA$H Grant, and The Eastbay Community Foundation.
Ms. Jefferson has served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of California at Berkeley, Conservatory for Contemporary Dance Arts (CCD) and is an artist in residence for Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond and SF Unified School District. In addition, she is an instructor at Dance Mission Theater and the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts. She also serves as a Cultural Arts Specialist with Oakland Parks and Recreation where she continues to share her love of dance with Oakland youth.
Haitian Cuisine
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Please welcome our fabulous chef at RASANBLE,
Pierre-Richard Leurbourg. In addition to his Folkloric dance studies and training, Pierre also shares a love for food. Haitian food! To further enhance his skills, Pierre attended culinary school in Haiti. Nourish your body at RASANBLE! and savor the tastes of Diri ak Pwa, Poul, Griot, Lalo, Sos Ti Malis, Pikliz, and Bannann Peze. |
Marketplace
Sat/Sun
Incense Gurl (Sunday)
R Michele Folklore Skirts (Sat & Sun)
Funky Finery (Sat & Sun)
Art Matènwa / Atis Fanm Matènwa (Sat & Sun)
Bel Kay Botanica & Spiritual Supply (Sat & Sun)
Cantave De Saint Marc Haitian Coffee (Sunday)
Pierre-Richard Leurbourg Haitian Cuisine (Sat & Sun) Rasanble Resident Chef
The Divine Coloring Book (Saturday)
Qveen Jewelz Body Adornments & More (Sat & Sun)
Seven Roots Deep Botanica (Sat & Sun)
j.ella Essentials (Sat & Sun)
Melan-Aid (Sat & Sun)
Future Ancestar (Sat & Sun)
Kongo Boutique by Muisi-kongo Malonga (Sat & Sun)
Zanmi Lakay (Sat & Sun)
R Michele Folklore Skirts (Sat & Sun)
Funky Finery (Sat & Sun)
Art Matènwa / Atis Fanm Matènwa (Sat & Sun)
Bel Kay Botanica & Spiritual Supply (Sat & Sun)
Cantave De Saint Marc Haitian Coffee (Sunday)
Pierre-Richard Leurbourg Haitian Cuisine (Sat & Sun) Rasanble Resident Chef
The Divine Coloring Book (Saturday)
Qveen Jewelz Body Adornments & More (Sat & Sun)
Seven Roots Deep Botanica (Sat & Sun)
j.ella Essentials (Sat & Sun)
Melan-Aid (Sat & Sun)
Future Ancestar (Sat & Sun)
Kongo Boutique by Muisi-kongo Malonga (Sat & Sun)
Zanmi Lakay (Sat & Sun)
Drum Workshop 2015
Folkloric Dance Workshop 2015
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Folkloric Dance Workshop 2015
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Rasanble Community 2015
RASANBLE IN MOTION!
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