Guest Workshop Series

Zouk Weekender 

Zouk Weekend with Pedro & Ana

September 5-6, 2026 (Saturday - Sunday)

Join us for an immersive weekend of workshops and social dancing with international Brazilian Zouk World Champions and BZDC All-Stars, Pedro Castro & Ana Reis! Known for their breathtaking fluidity and world-class instruction, they seamlessly bridge traditional Rio-style roots with the technical precision of contemporary dance and ballet. Whether you want to master smooth head movements, elevate your social dancing, or refine your partner connection, this weekender is designed to transform your dance.

What to Expect

  • Technique, Styling & Musicality: Dive into rhythmic Rio-style footwork, signature "cool head movements," and learn how to use texture and contrast to elevate your musicality and expression.

  • Accessible Mastery & Socials: Learn from an engaging, structured curriculum designed for all levels, then put your new skills to work immediately during high-energy community socials.

SCHEDULE

Saturday

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Zouk Workshop (Open-Level) 2.5 hour class + 30 minute Practica

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Zouk Class (Open-level; Drop-in Friendly)

8:00 PM - Midnight Zouk Social

Sunday

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Zouk Workshop (Intermediate/Advanced) 2.5 hour class + 30 min Practica

4:00 PM- Onwards Zouk Mini-Social

Private Inquiry? Email us: info@bailadistrict.com

About the Instructors:

Pedro Castro and Ana Reis are renowned Brazilian Zouk World Champions, Jack and Jill All-Stars, and certified judges with the Brazilian Zouk Dance Council (BZDC). Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, both dancers possess extensive foundational training; Pedro began training in Contemporary Dance and Classical Ballet at age 16, while Ana has been fully immersed in dance since age 5, bringing a rich background in Jazz, Contemporary, and Ballet. Together, they honed their highly collaborative, engaging, and accessible teaching style while instructing at the prestigious Alex de Carvalho’s Dance School in Brazil, blending foundational technical precision with a deep level of artistry and expression.

Now based in the USA, Pedro and Ana have earned a global reputation for their dynamic performances, multiple podium finishes, and world-class instruction. As highly sought-after international artists, they travel extensively to promote Brazilian Zouk culture, having taught at premier festivals across the USA, Canada, Brazil, and Europe. Whether on the competition floor or in the workshop room, they are dedicated to inspiring students of all levels with their precise technique and infectious passion for the dance.

What is Brazilian Zouk?

Originating in Brazil during the 1990s, Brazilian Zouk is a deeply expressive and fluid partner dance characterized by its rhythmic footwork, continuous flow, and iconic head movements (movimentos de cabeça). As a contemporary evolution of Lambada, the dance has adapted to a wide variety of music genres, emphasizing a strong physical connection and a collaborative dialogue between partners.

Pedro and Ana's specific style is heavily rooted in the traditional foundations of Rio de Janeiro, often showcasing the intricate, syncopated footwork known as "Sarrada: Rio Style." However, what truly sets their teaching apart is how they seamlessly blend these traditional Zouk roots with their technical backgrounds in Classical Ballet, Contemporary dance, and Jazz. In their classes, they focus on "cool head movements" and "texture and contrast," teaching students how to balance precise leading and following with autonomy, musicality, and sophisticated expression on the social floor.