Ep 9. Brazil in NYC

Bare Feet With Mickela Mallozzi is a travel and dance series that follows Mickela Mallozzi as she explores different cultures through their dance traditions. In season 2 episode 9 titled "Brazil in NYC," Mickela dives into the vibrant world of Brazilian culture right in the heart of New York City.

The episode begins at the Brazil Day Festival in Manhattan's Little Brazil neighborhood, where Mickela finds herself swept up in the lively rhythms of samba music and dance. She meets local dancers and musicians who tell her about the history of Brazilian culture in New York, which dates back to the early 20th century when Brazilian sailors would dock in the city and bring their culture with them.

Mickela then heads to Rhythmology, a dance studio in Long Island where she takes a class in forró, a partner dance popular in the northeastern region of Brazil. The dance style is characterized by its close embrace and quick, syncopated footwork. Mickela gets a crash course in forró from the studio's founder, who hails from Brazil herself.

Next, Mickela ventures to Brooklyn to visit Capoeira Luanda, a school that teaches capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art that incorporates acrobatics, music, and dance. She watches a class in action, amazed by the fluidity and athleticism of the students. Mickela also gets to try some basic capoeira moves herself, under the guidance of the school's instructor.

Mickela's next stop is the Brazilian jewelry store Joalheria Brasil, where she meets the owner and learns about the different materials and techniques used in traditional Brazilian jewelry-making. She even gets to create her own piece of jewelry using Brazilian stones and silver.

The episode wraps up with Mickela attending a Brazilian party in a private residence in Queens. She dances to live music, eats traditional Brazilian food, and talks with partygoers about the importance of preserving Brazilian culture in New York.

Overall, "Brazil in NYC" is a colorful and lively exploration of Brazilian culture in one of the world's most diverse cities. With her passion for dance and her curiosity about different cultures, Mickela Mallozzi is the perfect guide to lead viewers on this cultural journey.