In this episode of Kizomba Conversations, we are talking with Katty, a passionate Kizomba dancer and event organiser from Paris. Katty shares her journey from being a Salsa lover to discovering Kizomba, and how her passion led her to organise events.
She also discusses the challenges she faced as a woman in the Kizomba scene, the importance of community support, and the behind-the-scenes work that goes into organising successful festivals like Back to Basics.
To connect with Katty, check her out on:
Facebook: Back 2 Basic Kizomba
Instagram: back2basickizombaparis
Follow us:
Visit our website: https://kizombaconversations.com/
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kizombaconversations/
TAKEAWAYS
Katty has been dancing Kizomba for 13-14 years.
She transitioned from Salsa to Kizomba after discovering it at a party.
Katty faced challenges as a woman in the Kizomba organising scene.
Community support was crucial for her success in organising events.
The Back to Basics festival was born from a desire to promote proper Kizomba.
Katty emphasises the importance of creating a joyful atmosphere at her events.
She believes that Kizomba events are vital for keeping the dance alive.
Katty's events focus on high emotional intensity in music.
The Kizomba scene in France has a rich history and strong community.
Katty continues to adapt her events to meet the evolving Kizomba landscape. Kizomba and Salsa both hold a special place in the heart of dancers.
Collaborations with DJs and teachers are essential for successful events.
Balancing event management with personal passion can be challenging.
Experiencing Kizomba in Angola offers a unique and profound connection to the dance.
Memorable moments often occur during social dancing rather than formal parties.
The connection to Kizomba evolves as one takes on the role of an organiser.
Kizomba is about freedom, emotion, and community.
Celebrating milestones in the dance community fosters connection and joy.
Passion should drive event organisation, not financial gain.
Creating lasting memories is the ultimate goal of any dance event.
SOUND BITES
"I needed to learn more about it."
"I have to discover and to dance everywhere."
"I was searching for a proper Kizomba party."
"I just wanted to create something."
"It's like there is an alchemy with my soul."
"I am back to basics every day."
"Feel free to express yourself. Be crazy."
"Salsa is still our first love."
"I want to enjoy it."
"Kizomba makes me feel free."
"Do it with passion, not for money."
"I hope you create great memories."
"I expect them to come just to celebrate."
"We are living an art."
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Katty and Kizomba
02:54 Katty's Journey into Kizomba
05:51 Transition from Dancer to Organizer
09:02 The Birth of Back to Basics Festival
11:58 Challenges Faced in Event Organization
18:06 The Importance of Community and Support
20:47 Behind the Scenes of Event Planning
26:57 Creating Atmosphere at Back to Basics
29:45 The Significance of Kizomba Events
33:11 The Unique Vibe of Back to Basics
36:05 Kizomba Scene in France vs. Other Countries
38:16 The Soul of Salsa and Kizomba
39:45 Collaborations in the Dance Community
45:01 Balancing Passion and Event Management
47:32 Experiencing Kizomba in Angola
49:31 Memorable Moments at Back to Basics
51:37 Evolving Connection to Kizomba
53:30 The Essence of Kizomba
56:31 Celebrating 10 Years of Back to Basics
01:01:12 Advice for Aspiring Event Organisers
01:03:10 Creating Lasting Memories at Events