Soraya Machado, Rio Rhythmics
Arriving in Brisbane in 2004, Soraya has become a key figure teaching axé in Australia. Beginning her dance career at only 4 years of age studying ballet at the Notre Dame college in Rio de Janeiro, she was recruited by a professional dancer (Sandra Cabrera form Chile) when she was just 6 years old. Continuing to study and perform ballet, her repertoire expanded to include jazz, tap, and Spanish flamenco. By the time she was 17, Soraya was regularly featuring in many high profile performances on Maracananzinho for Globo Television, and was part of numerous theatre productions.
Soraya then began focusing on axé due to the style's inherent capacity for fun, and aerobic values. Within no time Soraya became a member of several axé groups and performed in the Bahia carnival, plus specific performances in various cities around Rio de Janeiro, multiple nightclubs and high profile appearances right around Brazil.
While focusing on axé, Soraya's passion for dance meant that she still continued to dance other Brazilian styles including forró, lambada, and samba, which served her well once she arrived in Australia. Tarcisio Teatini-Climaco recognised her talent soon after her arrival and offered her a position with Australia's largest Latin dance academy.
"I'm constantly surprised by the interest and enthusiasm Australians have for Latin dancing – it is very rewarding, which is why I love being in this privileged position where I can contribute to their growth as dancers."
In her role overseeing Brisbane's only dedicated axé courses, Soraya has been a pivotal person in bringing axé to Australia. Some of her credits include:
Most Recent
- Brisbane Brazilian Dance Congress 2008
Performer - Childers Multicultural Festival 2008
Performer - Roar Against Racism 2008
Performer - RACQ Festival 2008
Performer - Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Parade 2008
Performer
Career Highlights
- Grand Latin Ball – axé performance 2009
Choreographer - White Magic – axé performance 2008
Choreographer - Bahia Carnival (Brazil) 1996
Performer - Maracananzinho (Brazil) 1995
Performer - Globo Television Appearance (Brazil) 1995
Performer