Ayazamana
José Rivera, Artistic Director & Esau Chauca, Executive Coordinator
Ayazamana is committed to presenting and preserving the rich diversity of Ecuadorian music and dance. The organization’s name translated from Kichwa to English means “peaceful rest of the soul.” Ayazamana seeks to empower Ecuadorians with pride through its youth program and public performances. Officially incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 2009, it offers the first children’s program in New York City teaching the fundamentals of Ecuadorian music and dance.
From a studio in Long Island City, Ayazamana provides bilingual Spanish/English classes every Friday for 6 to 14 year olds. Children learn traditional dances as well as the background and diversity of Ecuador’s distinct regions. Through public performances, the children build self-confidence and increase exposure of Ecuadorian culture.
Ayazamana’s professional dance company features more than 30 members including children and adults whose performances highlight the country’s diversity and influences reflecting the fusion of indigenous, European, and African cultures.