Workshops with Julie and Bernardo

21/11/2026 - Forró Workshops: Catching Breaks & Followers' Playground 💃🕺

Join us for a special morning of Forró on 21 November, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, featuring two inspiring workshops led by guest teachers Bernardo from Forró Cairns and Julie from Forró Brisbane!

📍Location: Big Ocean Studio

L2, 673 Bourke Street, Melbourne

🌱9:30AM - Workshop 1: Catching the Breaks with Bernardo

Explore Forró and discover how to connect more deeply with the music. In this workshop, we'll focus on catching breaks — recognising the pauses and breaks in a song and learning how to stop, play and move with the music. Develop your musicality, sharpen your listening skills and bring more creativity and expression to your dance!

✨ 11:00AM - Workshop 2: Followers' Playground with Julie

A space for followers to explore, experiment and feel more confident in their Forró!

We'll work on variations, develop autonomy on the dance floor and learn how to practise Forró on our own. Together, we'll explore how to incorporate variations naturally into our dances, find our own space and feel more comfortable expressing ourselves while following.

Everyone interested in experiencing the follower's perspective is welcome, even if following isn't your usual or preferred role on the dance floor.

Prerequisite: Familiarity with rhythm, basic steps and simple turns.

Meet Your Teachers

Bernardo — Forró Cairns

Originally from Italy, Bernardo discovered Forró along the seaside of Brighton, England. He went on to teach in his hometown of Biella before moving to Brisbane and eventually Cairns, sharing his passion for Forró with communities along the way.

Julie — Forró Brisbane

Julie is a Forró teacher based in Brisbane whose approach centres on active following, shared leading and connection. She believes both partners contribute to the conversation on the dance floor and encourages dancers to develop their autonomy, confidence and personal expression.

Whether you're looking to deepen your connection with the music, explore new possibilities in your dance or gain confidence on the dance floor, these workshops offer a beautiful opportunity to learn, experiment and grow together.

Come learn, connect and discover new ways to experience Forró! ❤️