Heres a translation of Chen Lizras body language.
When she loves something, shes passionate about it. Shes spontaneous and impulsive, although she is learning to curb her enthusiasms to fit her environment unless, of course, she thinks that environment needs to be shaken up a little. Her flirtatiousness is not so much sexual as it is an expression of the way she throws heart and soul into life.
This explains why the other patrons in a Main Street coffee shop are taken by surprise when, in the midst of our conversation, Lizra stands up and does a sensuous salsa dance, her body consumed by music only she can hear, right then and there. Its like that scene in When Harry Met Sally Ill have what shes having. Everyone in the coffee shop wishes they could order some of Lizras moves.
You dance with the heart, she has just explained. I call dancing my therapy. I dont think there can be a physical release without an emotional release.
If you want Lizra to show you how to put a little passion in your dance steps (and, perhaps, in a few other aspects of your life), you should attend one of her two free classes as part of Carnaval del Sol on June 30. In fact, spend the entire day there and youll be infused with the spirit of Vancouvers Latin community.
From 10am until 10pm, Granville Street will pulsate with the warm rhythms of countries such as El Salvador, Cuba, Mexico and Venezuela. Performers include the Boom Booms, classical pianist Linda Lee Thomas, Will Campa from Cuba, Mexico Vivo, Mariachi del Sol, Zumba Fusion, Brejera Band, and La Joropera. Theres an authentic Lain American Food market, kids activities, Zumba street dancing and a tourism section.
Ironically, Lizra was born in Israel. Its when she moved to Cuba that she discovered her inner salsanista. Earlier this year, she published , which is one part richly detailed guide book, one part cultural translator. (She also leads and organizes .)
So respected is her work in Cuba that shes been nominated for an Inspirational Latin Awards. On June 28 at CBC Studios, LatinCouver will be honouring and recognizing the innovative talents of outstanding individuals in our community who throughout their careers have enhanced British Columbia and bring about changes in the province.
Lizra can definitely be provocative. She loves salsa because theres a sassy, flirty feel to it. If you could add that to your relationship, it creates fire, something new.
She wants people to shake off the inhibitions that keep them safely ensconced in their comfort zone and try something new. Who knows, she says, it could be a way to get the excitement without a new partner.
Do you dare?
For festival details go to , . To learn more about Chen Lizra go to or .
