Leny O'Cassule, a passionate Kizomba dancer, teacher, and cultural ambassador shares his powerful journey into Kizomba, rooted in his Angolan heritage, the music of his upbringing, and the moments that transformed him from an observer into a dedicated dancer and teacher.
We explore the importance of musicality, cultural respect, and why Kizomba is more than a dance — it’s a lifestyle. Leny reflects on his experiences learning from influential figures in the Kizomba community, his motivation to create Mambos d'Afro dance festival, and the lessons that shaped his teaching philosophy.
The conversation also dives into the UK Kizomba scene, discussing challenges like the “fast-food mentality” in dance, the need for deeper commitment, quality teaching, and cultural immersion. Leny shares honest insights on dance boundaries, DJs’ responsibility in shaping events, and how dancers can truly grow by stepping out of their comfort zones.
If you care about authentic Kizomba, musical connection, and long-term growth in dance, this episode is for you
To connect with Leny, check him out on:
Instagram: Leny O Cassule
Facebook: Leny O Cassule
Mambos d'Afro Festival page:
buytickets.at/mambosdafrobevents
Mambos d'Afro Dance School:
https://www.instagram.com/mambosdafro/
https://www.facebook.com/mambosdafro/
https://www.youtube.com/@mambosdafro
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TAKEAWAYS
"I was overwhelmed with the amount of people actually interested in Kizomba."
"To become the best dancer you can possibly be, you have to be comfortable being uncomfortable."
"Musicality is one of the most important things in dance."
"I realized I don't actually need to think about my movement anymore; I just let it flow."
"The aim is dancing together, whether that person is your partner or the music." Kizomba is a lifestyle; you need to eat, breathe it.
Listen to music to connect with the rhythm.
Always remember, there's always someone better than you.
Dance is about connecting with the music, not just the steps.
Understanding different motivations for attending dance events is crucial. 'You need to study the dance. You need to study the culture.'
'The fast food mentality needs to stop.'
'Stick with your teachers. You have to be ready to do the boring stuff.'
'We need to do more intensive courses.'
'DJs need to stop being lazy and do their work.'
'Dancing is freedom.'
'You need to respect the culture behind Kizomba.'
'Be patient with your craft; your time will come.'
'The more quality time you put in, the more you'll get out.'
'A good teacher puts themselves in the student's role.'
SOUND BITES
"Absolutely addicted to dancing."
"You have to be comfortable being uncomfortable."
"What was missing was musicality."
"Until I get it right."
"Kizomba is a lifestyle."
"Just let your body go."
"Become one with the master."
"Focus on best friend and your master."
"'You need to study the dance. You need to study the culture.'"
"'Stop the fast food mentality.'"
"'DJs need to stop being lazy and do their work.'"