Raquel Bastazin

Originally from São Paulo, Brazil, and now based in Montreal, Raquel Bastazin is the visionary founder of Levanta Poeira, a Brazilian dance collective she created in 2007. A self-made artist, choreographer, and educator, she has spent over 19 years building bridges through Brazilian culture, movement, and dance. Her artistic work includes directing and choreographing large-scale performances, teaching at the Los Angeles Samba Congress, receiving the “Best Choreography” award at the Toronto Samba Congress in 2018, and serving as artistic director and choreographer for the opening concert of renowned Brazilian singer Zeca Pagodinho.

Known for her vibrant energy and powerful stage presence, Raquel has a unique ability to engage and uplift crowds through interactive Brazilian dance workshops that celebrate joy, connection, and self-expression. Her workshops are often followed by dynamic artistic performances with her group, shining a light on feminist causes and sharing messages of empowerment through the art of samba. Passionate about the transformative power of movement, Raquel continues to inspire women and communities by creating meaningful cultural experiences that unite strength, freedom and celebration.

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