‘Salsa, in Benin?’ This was the response of many of our London friends on hearing about the rich life of Afro-Latin music and dance in Cotonou– which was revealed to them by the Modern Moves research visit to that city in February. What better way to continue educating the world on this vital and long-standing example of transatlantic rhythm exchanges than to showcase it in London through a Modern Moves event? The recent London visit of our new Beninese friends and colleagues, the Paris-based musician Laurent Hounsavi, and the Washington-based dancer Steve Deogratias Lokonon, helped us plan precisely such an event. In September 2015 we will host Laurent and Steve in an exciting music and dance collaboration that will highlight the place of Cuba in the Beninese musical imaginary. More information coming soon!
