Passista Program

Dance Migration’s First Official International Residency

For the past four years, Dance Migration’s Passista Program has been a cornerstone of our training—supporting dancers in developing technique, confidence, and performance presence.

This year marks a powerful evolution.

For the first time, Dance Migration officially launches its International Residency Program, welcoming Dandan Firmo directly from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to lead the 2026 Passista Program.

This edition is unlike anything we have offered before—bringing a deeper level of cultural connection, technical training, and artistic exchange into the experience.

This is more than a program—it is an invitation into a deeper level of samba. ✨

About Dandan Firmo

Dandan Firmo is a Brazilian choreographer, performer, and actress with a distinguished career in the entertainment industry. She has worked with leading artists such as Iza, Ivete Sangalo, Pabllo Vittar, and Ludmilla, among many others.

A true pioneer, she made history as the first Black Paquita on Xuxa and was also the first Queen of the Passistas section of Acadêmicos do Salgueiro, one of Rio’s most iconic samba schools. She has choreographed major productions including the Prêmio Multishow 2018 and performed internationally across Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas.

With strong technical mastery across multiple dance styles, Dandan brings a powerful, versatile, and deeply authentic presence to her work.

Program Details 📅

Tuesdays | 7:00–9:00 PM
April 28 – July 7

Each class includes:

• Body conditioning

• Samba no pé training

📍 Classes will begin at 180 Shaw St (studio space) and transition to Earlscourt Park on June 2nd.

Outdoor training is an essential part of the program, reflecting how dancers train in Brazil—building:

• Stamina

• Body connection & awareness

• Samba Training in Heels

• Strength

• Technique

• Artistry

Students enrolled in the program will also participate in the Salsa on St. Clair Parade on July 11 & 12 🎉

Who This Program Is For 🔥

This program is designed for dancers who:

• Have a foundation in samba

• Have participated in Dance Migration’s beginner or foundational training

• Are ready to be challenged and pushed to the next level

• Want to train with greater discipline, consistency, and intention

Training Experience

Dance Migration is committed to delivering top-quality training rooted in cultural understanding, discipline, and embodiment. This residency offers a unique opportunity to train consistently with a guest artist from Rio while being held within the Dance Migration method and community.

Costumes & Samba Shoes 👠

All students participating in the program will be required to purchase:

• A performance costume ($400 + shipping)

• Handmade samba shoes from Brazil ($175, for those who do not already own a pair)

These elements are part of the full performance experience. Hair & Makeup also students expense

Investment 💫

Early Bird Rate: $444 (available until April 17)
Regular Rate: $500

Brazilian Funk Add-On

Dandan will also be teaching Brazilian Funk on Fridays.

Funk Early Bird: $333
Early Bird Bundle (Passista + Funk): $720

Payment Plans Available

Flexible payment options are available to support your participation.