WELCOME TO AFIDANCE

Grassroot Traditional African dance Exponent

Norman Stephenson

Affectionately known as Rubba is an Afrikan/global dance extraordinaire, celebrated performer & teacher. Rubba picked up his nickname as a 16-year-old whilst living on the street of St Paul's Bristol, where he discovered his innate desire to dance. He instinctively knew that even if he had nothing else going for him, at least he could dance his troubles away. His spiritual approach, fluid technique, supple movements, and graceful style of dancing has endeared him to audiences, fellow dancers & students all over the world. Without doubt he is versatile and one of a select few who can; perform, teach, deliver excellent workshops and implement meaningful projects. He only lives for one thing and that is to continue offering African holistic and traditional forms of expression towards improving the mental, spiritual and physical wellbeing of others.

Traditional Dances From Africa:

Is connected to ritualistic and spiritual healing practices, and addresses a range of ailments. The underlying belief is that in the community, mind and body must be incorporated into ritual systems in order to facilitate healing, as well as transform and empower the individual and the group. Ultimately, given their holistic structure, rituals benefit the society in many layers. They play an integral role in socialization, expression and communication; help to build and maintain a healthy sense of self system; and also offer an alternative cathartic experience for not only individuals but for the community as a whole.

By Nicole M. Monteiro, Ph.D. Center for Healing and Development and Diana J. Wall, Psy.D. The U.S. Peace Corps

AFIDANCE aims are to increase awareness of African culture as it contains valuable information on life lessons and the more we become aware of this the more harmony will be between differing cultures. it is important that our children are taught this as they are the future. We feel it is an important tool to help with breaking down racial

barriers and separation that presently exist in our society.

What I have learned from a life dedicated to this form of expression is that it is not just about dance; but a life enhancing holistic practice, that will definitely improve mental and physical well being. There is a proven and deep-rooted connection between the human physiology/psyche and the right vibrational tones. This vibrational link between the sound of the drums and the receiving dancer, resonate on a frequency that I believe help maintain a physical, emotional and spiritual balance in one's life.

This connection is something that traditional African communities have a much deeper relationship with than most of us in the western hemisphere, meaning its value and importance is often overlooked. It is more that just dancing to 'keep fit', as you can spend your whole life trying to unravel the mystery behind our innate connection to the sound of the drum and its relationship to the dances of this beautiful continent.

Quote" Rubba's passion and love for African Dance and drumming has permeated every aspect of his life and is clear to anyone who has the pleasure of being taught by him or working with him.