'Zouk & Scroll: How Social Media Shapes Our Dance'

Are you addicted to Zouk demos on your phone? Does online validation affect how you feel on the dance floor? This episode of Zouk Nerds is for you. Hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada expose the profound ways social media is transforming the Brazilian Zouk community, for better and for worse.  

They reveal how the quest for likes and views creates "unreal perceptions" of relevance and discuss the anxiety dancers face if they're not constantly posting. The conversation tackles the rise of the "internationally famous dancer" vs. the experienced local teacher, and how the "business of attention" is influencing event lineups.

Alisson and Gui break down how algorithms prioritize flash over substance, warning against the "sugar high" of viral trends compared to the essential "vegetables" of foundational training and connecting with the dance's roots. They share why they personally seek out older, less-seen content and highlight how even dance demonstrations have evolved from teaching tools to marketing performances on the "mobile phone stage."

Discover the enduring power of word of mouth and personal connection in an era dominated by algorithms. This episode is a critical look at navigating the modern dance world consciously, encouraging you to take control of your influences and prioritize what truly matters for your growth and the health of the community.

Watch this episode to understand the hidden forces shaping your Zouk journey!