Saanvi Vootla, Contributing Writer
Dance, one of the most universal forms of expression, can transcend borders and unite people on a deeper, spiritual level.
Muevelo at VCU, a vibrant Hispanic and Latin American dance collective, has been bringing that power to the Richmond community by offering transformative performances, dynamic showcases and interactive workshops that invite everyone to experience Latin American heritage’s rhythm and culture for over 15 years.
Muevelo has been on the map since 2009, with the goal to teach Latin dances to not only the VCU student body, but the greater Richmond community.
Muevelo held its first workshop of the fall semester on Sept. 26, focusing on the Latin American dance style of salsa.
Individuals from all cultural backgrounds filled the studio, eager to be immersed in the art.
“Our goal, since 2009, is to better enrich the community regardless of race or ethnicity or anything like that,” Muevelo president Emerson Hernandez said. “I think it’s a great way to engage students and community members outside of VCU to join these workshops.”
Julien Buentello, the workshop coordinator, led his first event with an uplifting and welcoming attitude, allowing everyone to learn at their own pace and be fully immersed in Latin culture.
“I think the workshops are great for people who haven’t done it before and people who just want to start something new,” Buentello said.
Buentello learned how to dance at a young age from his father, who is a dance teacher. He enjoys dancing with his family at get-togethers and reunions.
“We have that close relationship at social gatherings, and I know people want to get into that because it’s very easy to socialize and build that close relationship,” Buentello said.
Valentina Smith, Muevelo’s secretary, has found a wonderful, welcoming community in Muevelo that keeps her coming back, she said.
Muevelo also hosts social events or gatherings for group members to create long-lasting friendships and feel connected to each other, according to Smith.
One event is “Spooky Salsa,” where people can dress up in costumes and dance through the night.
Muevelo vice president Tanvir Rukunuzzaman said the recent workshop went “really well” and had a good turnout. He is proud of Julien for leading a workshop for the first time so successfully.
“I’m happy to see all the new faces, and I’m glad that we were able to promote our culture through dancing while also having fun,” Rukunuzzaman said.
The workshop helped achieve Muevelo’s goal, as many participants left feeling moved and united through dance.
“My friend sent me the Instagram flyer, and I’m super happy that I came,” participant David Badohoun said. “I was able to learn the dance culture, dancing with people from different cultural backgrounds and I had a good time being involved.”
From novice dancers trying to learn something new, such as bachata or salsa, to experienced dancers who want to showcase their skills on the performance team, there is a place for everyone in Muevelo.
Students can immerse themselves in the culturally enriching dance collective — or audition for their performance team next semester — by visiting their Instagram @vcumuevelo.