MEN IN BLACK, TOO

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Production of
the Opening and Closing Sessions of the
Event Solutions Expo 2003

E. Through the Eyes of the Production Team and Entertainers

13. - Tekura Jegnas

Dennis Newsome is the first and only African-American Master in the art of Capoeira in the world (an African Brazilian combat dance), and a pioneer of Capoeira in San Diego. His presentation was part of the Closing Session.

Also, the bewitching Maculele was presented, another African Brazilian combat dance tradition that utilizes sticks and sparking machetes.

Newsome, aka. Mestre Preto Velho (Master Old Black Man in Portuguese), collaborated with master drummers Bernard Thomas, who was the musical director of this production, and Omar Moore.

Thomas skillfully interlaced the rhythms of the Djembe and Dun Dun orchestra together with the choreography and improvisational dance of Newsome’s dancers. This was an innovative musical combination because the Capoeira is danced traditionally to the Birimbau (musical bow) and Maculele to the Atabaque drums.

The challenge of performing at this event came from the physical spatial limitations of the stage, with all of the props and instruments set-up for the other musical artist performing that evening.

Additionally, there was the artistic manner of combining the Euro-musical tradition with the traditional African music. To the credit of the professionalism of all the artisans, the music and dance coalesced together seamlessly.

Newsome has traveled to many countries working as technical advisor, stunt actor and fight choreographer on several motion picture films. He has served as a technical advisor and fight choreographer for “Lethal Weapon” and other movies. He is one of the leading African martial artists and leading exponent of “Kalenda” (African American & Caribbean Stick Dance/Fight) in the U. S.

Dennis Newsome
TEKURA JEGNAS
P. O. Box 128623
San Diego, CA 92112-8623
(619) 338-6363
www.malandros-touro.com