"FEBRUARY at Jamii" welcomes lead artist Aline Morales, who proposes "Forró" as our monthly theme. Aline will explore Forró with us, as it is a cornerstone of her existence and transcends mere music: Forró has offered Aline a profound sense of identity and belonging during her formative years in Brazil. In Toronto, she has witnessed the communal embrace of Forró and recognized its power to unite people and forge new bonds. This precious experience is something Aline wants to share with the Jamii community as part of our monthly themed programs.

Forró is a genre of music and dance that originated in northeastern Brazil, particularly in the states of Pernambuco, Ceará, and Bahia. It encompasses a lively and rhythmic style of music characterized by the use of accordion, zabumba (a type of drum), and triangle. Forró music often features themes of love, romance, and rural life. In addition to its musical aspect, Forró is also a social dance with intricate footwork. The dance is known for its energetic and playful movements, which often involve spins, turns, and syncopated steps.

Forró has evolved over the years and has become popular not only in Brazil but also internationally, with Forró festivals and events held in various countries around the world. It is celebrated for its infectious rhythm, joyful atmosphere, and the sense of community it fosters among dancers and enthusiasts. In conceptualizing "FEBRUARY at Jamii", Aline is offering to share the multidimensional essence of Forró, exploring its social, cultural, and environmental dimensions.