Dancer Brings the Joy of Brazil to Newark
by Mahima Aktar
Sabrina Evangelista captivates a crowd when she moves. Last summer she caught the eye of many while dancing at an NJPAC Horizon Sounds of the City outdoor concert featuring world-renowned Brazilian percussionist Cyro Baptista. “He was performing songs from his album Chama, which blends different Brazilian rhythms, including forró,” Sabrina says. “It was such an honor to share that energy on a big stage and see people from all backgrounds join in the celebration.”
Her radiance and energy were captured through the lens of photographer Donell Woodson for NJPAC and videographer Zion Laster for Destination Newark, which landed Sabrina as our Destination Newark Summer 2025 cover star.
“Newark gave me space to grow and share Brazilian culture in a city that already embraces so many traditions.”
– Sabrina Evangelista
Sabrina, a professional dancer and photographer from Minas Gerais, Spain, has shared the vibrant energy of forró, a traditional partner dance from Northeastern Brazil, on stages in Newark, New Jersey and beyond. “Forró is lively, joyful, and incredibly social,” she says. “It’s all about connection and community.”
Although Sabrina grew up far from Brazil’s Northeast, where the dance originated, forró was introduced to her by her grandfather. “He was born in Teresina, Piauí, and was the only Northeastern person in our family. When I dance or teach, it’s about honoring the culture he carried with him.” Now, she shares that part of him wherever she goes.
Newark has played a major role in her artistic journey. “This is where I first started teaching and performing weekly,” she says. “Newark gave me space to grow and share Brazilian culture in a city that already embraces so many traditions.” Sabrina also draws inspiration from the city’s musical diversity. “Newark’s dance scene is alive — Afro-Latino rhythms, Caribbean beats, jazz, hip-hop, and yes, Brazilian energy,” she says. “I love how jazz flows into forró. It’s vibrant and unexpected — just like this city.” Through performances, workshops, and collaborations with artists like Mauro Refosco and David Vieira, Sabrina continues to spread her love for dance. “Whether you grew up with this music or are hearing it for the first time, there’s something in forró’s rhythm that makes you feel part of something bigger,” she says. “It brings people together — and that’s the most beautiful part.”
“I love how jazz flows into forró. It’s vibrant and unexpected — just like this city.”
Sabrina Evangelista
