Kizomba dancer Fredrick ‘Rico’ King is set to proudly represent Zimbabwe at the Amazing Festival (AF), an Afro-Latin dance festival taking place from August 14 to 18, 2024, in Livingstone, Zambia.
Peter Tanyanyiwa Suburban Reporter
The four-day festival, known as the “Vicfalls Afro-Latin Experience” is expected to draw Salsa, Bachata and Kizomba enthusiasts from around the globe.
The Amazing Festival celebrates cultures and tourism while promoting the growth of the Afro-Latin dance.
The festival features a variety of dance workshops and social night parties, creating a vibrant atmosphere for dance lovers.
In an interview, Rico expressed his excitement about the festival.
“This festival is significant because many people in Zambia were not aware of the Latin dance scene in Zimbabwe. Now they are curious and want to learn more. I aim to showcase our growing Latin community and encourage others to join us,” he said.
Rico, who has over 10 years’ experience in competitive ballroom and Latin dance, has been a key figure in promoting social dances in Zimbabwe.
He started the Kizomba movement in 2016, organising popular salsa nights that have helped break down barriers and bring people together through dance.
Rico has also launched the ThurDance movement, which provides a platform for talented dancers to showcase their skills.
At the Amazing Festival, Rico plans to conduct workshops to share his unique dance style, which draws influence from his experiences in Zimbabwe.
“Each teacher has a unique signature to their style, and I want to share mine, showing that we have a rich dance culture here,” he said.
As Zimbabwe’s representative at the festival, Rico is determined to create greater exposure for the country’s dance community and foster connections that will help grow the Latin dance scene in the country.