Brazilian Samba
Hi, I’m Liani_ Samba de Rainha, a Brazilian Samba artist from the coastal city of Santos, São Paulo (Brazil). Samba has been part of my life since childhood—more than just a dance, it’s my culture, my passion, and a powerful way to connect with others.
My journey began in Brazil with Capoeira and Afro-Brazilian traditions, and later took me to the U.S., where I taught Latin Ballroom at Arthur Murray Studios. Since 2010, I’ve called London home, training and teaching at Pineapple Dance Studios, where I’m now a resident Brazilian Samba teacher.
I’ve performed at festivals across London and Europe, danced in a music video for Basement Jaxx, and been featured in many BBC interviews about Brazilian Samba culture.
To keep my technique sharp and teaching authentic, I travel to Rio de Janeiro every year to train and parade at the highest level of Samba, dancing as a Passista with top Samba schools including Acadêmicos do Salgueiro, Estácio de Sá, and Vila Isabel.
Samba is my heartbeat—it’s joy, empowerment, and a celebration of life. Through teaching, I aim to pass on not just steps, but the true spirit of Samba and Brazilian culture.
Let’s Samba - join my dance team!
Instagram, YouTube & TikTok: @sambaderainha_
www.sambaderainha.uk
Check out this YouTube video of my Samba class at Pineapple!