Nao Yamada is from Chiba, Japan. She started classical ballet training at age 10. She moved to NYC in 2000 and attended the Alvin Ailey School.

Even though she is originally from Japan, she has very unique talent and has been working with a variety of dance companies, including Kotchegna Dance (West African), Michael Mao Dance (Modern), Silva Dance (Afro-Brazilian/Contemporary), Grupo Ribeiro (Brazilian), Fusha Dance (Congolese), and Harambee Dance Company (Black Dance).

As a Brazilian Dancer, she has performed at Lincoln Center Outdoors, New York City Center, Radio City Music Hall, Newark City Hall, and the Houston Brazilian Festival.

Nao is a certified Zumba Basic2 and Zumba Gold instructor (2009-2014), has 200 hours of yoga instructor training (2009) and completed the certificated ABT national teacher training curriculum in 2015.

Class Description
Afro-Brazilian dance is full of spontaneous, soulful, exotic, and energetic movement that will energize your body and spirit. The classes present sequences and exercises to prepare the body for uplifting and exciting dances from northern Brazil where African influences are most present. In this class, you will learn to develop rhythm & coordination, stay fit, relieve stress, and of course learn about Brazilian culture. Styles include: Samba, Samba from Rio, Samba de Roda, Axé, Afro-Brazilian, Sambareggae, Afoxé and Orixas.
Live Drumming accompaniment