A transnational project promoting culture, dance and education.
Who we Are
We are Cecilia and Orphée, two artists whose paths crossed through the language of dance, united by a shared love for culture, tradition, and the soul of Benin. In 2023, Cecilia journeyed to Benin with a Fulbright Scholarship, not knowing that the trip would forever change her life. Ten months of study, teaching, dancing, and creations opened doors into worlds she had never imagined, the rich culture of Benin, rhythms and spirituality carried for generations. She was welcomed into a community of artists who shared with her their traditions, and the deep spirituality of Vodoun. What began as research grew into kinship, inspiration, and a calling- Yló- to return again and again.
For Orphée, Benin is home, the place where dance became his voice. From birth he was immersed in the movements and music of his land, eventually rising to become a professional dancer, choreographer, and artistic director, always carrying forward the spirit of his ancestors. In his teaching, he offers more than technique and dances, he opens a doorway into memory, identity, and belonging. Together, Cecilia and Orphée created YLÓ. YLÓ is not just a project, it is a bridge. A bridge between worlds, between past and present, between tradition and contemporarities. Above all, it is an invitation: to come to Benin, to experience its beauty and richness, and to be held by a community that welcomes you as family.
What we’re Creating
Destination Benin
January 2026
Dates : January 3-13, 2026
Locations : Cotonou, and Ouidah
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Benin, land of ancient Dahomey and epicenter of Vodun spirituality. Timed with the country’s most popular event of the year: the Vodun festival, this journey invites you to experience the heart of Benin’s cultural heritage.
Led by artists Cecilia SLONGO (Argentina/USA) and Orphée AHEHEHINNOU (Benin).
-This immersive experience is designed for those seeking deeper understanding, inspiration, and connection.-
What awaits you in this journey
Embodied Practices
- Daily dance classes rooted in traditional dances from Benin.
You will learn from different professional dancers and dance teachers from Benin in traditional, modern and contemporary forms.
> For those interested in learning traditional music contact us for more details.
Cultural Immersion
- Participation in the Vodun Festival and ceremonies.
- Discussions with elders, artists and researchers.
- Guided visits to historical and sacred sites in Ouidah and Ganvie, the floating village.
Vodun Festival Highlights
The festival takes place in the historic city of Ouidah, where over the course of three days the city transforms into a vibrant epicenter of tradition, modernity and sacred practices.
Participation in the festival will include, witnessing Vodun ceremonies, live concerts, traditional dance troupes, performances, culinary exploration and more.
Inside the
Experience
Who Is This For?
This journey is open to dancers, artists, educators, researchers, and cultural workers from all backgrounds. No prior experience in dance is required just curiosity, openness, and a willingness to move, listen, and learn.
RATES :
-Scholarship for dancers $2500
-Regular Price $3500
Deposit for all participants:
$1000 (by October 15th, 2025).
What’s included
» Accommodations.
» Breakfast and lunch.
» Dance classes and training.
» Transportation.
» Participation in the Festival with a VIP entrance ticket.
» Visits to historical sites and Ganvie.
» Panel discussions with artists and elders.
» Visits to the city, dance troupes and entertainment activities planned on the schedule.
» Airport Transportation.
What’s NOT included
» Airfare (typically between $1000–$1800).
» VISA (electronic visa typically $60, same day processing time
https://evisa.bj/).
» Dinner (accommodations can be made for a reasonable amount, we encourage participants to explore the culinary landscape of the city).
» Travel Insurance.
Would you like to enjoy this unique experience?
Send us an e-mail for more information and timetables.
You can reach us at yloconnections@gmail.com
© Yló connects cultures, histories, and people through dance, music, tradition, and joy. All rights reserved 2025