Joseph V. Labolito / Temple University

While studying abroad in Brazil, Jessica Featherson observed a common aesthetic between modern movement and the spiritual and secular street dances of Salvador de Bahia. Her experience inspired her to investigate how Brazilian dance forms could be infused into the vocabulary of Umfundalai, a modern technique developed by Temple Dance Department Chair Kariamu Welsh. In addition to developing choreography for her BFA dance thesis, Featherson’s study, which was funded by the Provost’s Office’s Creative Arts and Research Scholarship, explored the impact traditional African culture has had on cultures throughout Latin America.

Temple Times: How long have you been studying Welsh’s Umfundalai technique?

JF: I was first introduced to the technique during my freshman year as part of the African dance requirement for dance majors. Prior to this experience my exposure and knowledge of African dance was very limited.

TT: What inspired you to begin to link movements associated with Afro-Brazilian dance with modern dance?

JF: My experiences in Salvador de Bahia, Brazil, in the summer of 2009 became the inspiration for this study. What attracted me most about the music and dance in Salvador was the incredible spirit and connectivity between those participating. My intent was to show that Afro-Brazilian cultural dances and traditions, just like many throughout the African diaspora, could be integrated into the Umfundalai technique and tradition.

The scope of this project was centered on three movement studies that explored various elements of Afro-Brazilian dance and culture. Ultimately, the intent behind these movement studies was to make connections and see how naturally receptive and organic these movements would be to the Umfundalai-trained dancer.

TT: Will you continue to study the interconnectivity of Afro-Brazilian dance and the Umfundalai technique?

JF: Definitely, through this project I was able realize and achieve the groundwork for the research I wish to pursue for my graduate studies. My deepest appreciation goes to the Creative Arts, Research, and Scholarship Program committee, Dr. Kariamu Welsh, and all the participants involved within this project for giving me the opportunity to present my work. I look forward to the continued ideas and inspirations that my research will contribute to the Umfundalai dance technique.

— Jazmyn Burton