Rachel Werkman & Randi Henry

Teaches at The Dance Complex

Rachel Werkman (Samba and Afro-Brazilian) discovered samba in 2001 and her life was changed forever. Prior to that, Rachel had dabbled in other dance styles and practiced yoga. Samba brought dance to the forefront, together with a new-found love of Brazil which she has nurtured for over 15 years with annual travel, language study and integration into the vibrant local Brazilian community.

Rachel has been teaching samba since 2003, first at the Brazilian Cultural Center of New England. She performed with the Center’s percussion group, Samba Tremeterra, for over ten years. She currently acts as the Dance Director for SambaViva, Boston’s premiere Brazilian dance and music ensemble. She also leads cultural tours to Rio de Janeiro during Carnaval.

For Rachel, the joy of samba and other Brazilian rhythms inspires and energizes every day. Her objective in class is to create a welcoming, non-competitive and fun environment that allows students to experience the uplifting and energetic culture of Brazil through dance.

Randi Henry (Samba and Afro-Brazilian) discovered her passion for Brazilian music, dance and culture while studying at Tufts University and has been performing and teaching for 10 years. She has worked with many local talents within Boston’s Brazilian community and has trained in New York, Paris and Brazil. While living in Ohio Randi was dance director and featured dancer for the Aquarela do Mundo Samba School in Cleveland. After relocating to Boston, Randi performed as a featured dancer for the Brazilian Cultural Center of New England and the Samba Tremeterra Dance and Percussion Ensemble for several years. As part of the BCCNE, Randi developed her skills as a choreographer, teacher and costume designer.

Currently, Randi is a performer and dance instructor for SambaViva, New England's premier Brazilian dance and music ensemble. Her goal is to teach students freedom of expression and movement through authentic Afro-Brazilian dance.