FORRÓ
NEW
YORK
ABOUT FORRÓ NEW YORK
Forró New York is a forró project based in New York City, founded in 2017.
It is a community-driven initiative that builds and sustains the local forró scene in NYC through weekly dance classes, social dance events, and cultural programming.
Over the years, the project has expanded beyond New York, developing online courses and educational programs that connect and support students internationally.
Today, Forró New York operates across in-person classes, events, and online learning, forming a continuous ecosystem for learning, dancing, and experiencing forró.
WHAT IS FORRÓ?
Forró is a Brazilian cultural movement that includes music, dance, and social gatherings known as forró events. It originated in the Northeast of Brazil and is now practiced throughout the country and in communities worldwide.
The music includes genres such as baião, xote, and arrasta-pé, and the dance developed as a social partner practice centered on connection, musicality, and improvisation between dancers.
Read our blog to learn more about forró: What is forró? Understanding dance, music, and culture
FORRÓ IN NYC
In New York, there is a growing forró scene with multiple initiatives, classes, and social events.
Forró New York organizes weekly classes, social dance events, and festivals that connect this community and create a consistent space for learning and practice.
The structure is designed for beginners and experienced dancers, combining guided learning in classes with real social dance practice in events.
Explore more in detail:
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Forró Scene in New York
Structured overview of how the scene is organized today
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Blog: The Forró Scene in New York City – Context and Evolution
Historical perspective and cultural development of the scene
HOW TO START
How to start dancing forró in New York
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Join a beginner-friendly weekly class
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Learn basic steps, rhythm, and partner connection
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Attend social dance events to practice
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Continue developing through consistent participation
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Blog: How to Start Dancing Forró in New York City
A beginner’s guide to classes, community, and where to begin
*No partner or previous experience is required.
STUDENT EXPERIENCES
→ Read more student experiences
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“The classes are fun, welcoming, and such a great way to meet people in NYC.”
Luíza Ribeiro
"His approach to music and rhythm completely changed the way I dance."
Lívia Silva
“I didn’t have any dance experience before, but after a couple of months I already felt comfortable joining the intermediate class.”
Molly Chicy
For dancers who plan to participate regularly, the Forró New York Association offers a way to stay engaged while making ongoing participation more accessible.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is forró dance?
Forró is a Brazilian partner dance from the Northeast of Brazil, danced to rhythms such as baião, xote, and arrasta-pé. It is a social dance focused on connection, musicality, and improvisation between partners.
Where can I learn and dance forró in New York?
You can learn forró in New York through weekly classes and social events organized by Forró New York. These classes are designed for all levels, including complete beginners.
Do I need a partner to join the classes?
No. You do not need a partner to join. Classes and events are structured so participants rotate partners, making it easy to join on your own.
Is forró beginner-friendly?
Yes. Forró is very beginner-friendly. Many classes are designed to introduce the basic steps, rhythm, and connection in a clear and accessible way, even for those with no prior dance experience.
Can I learn forró online?
Yes. Forró New York offers online classes that teach the fundamentals of forró, including rhythm, footwork, and connection principles, allowing students to start learning from anywhere.
