"A Zest for Life" is a documentary that uses performance, interviews and a host´s narration to explore and illustrate the dynamic, colorful and little known art forms of Afro-Peruvian music and dance. The lively dances are a delight to behold, and Afro-Peruvian music will appeal to anyone who loves Afro-Cuban or Brazilian music.
The featured performing group, De Rompe y Raja is a San Francisco Bay Area group composed primarily of Peruvian immigrants. Lalo Izquierdo, the show´s star and an Afro-Peruvian, was invited to the group to give them a solid grounding in his tradition. Izquierdo is the choreographer for the performances as well as lead percussionist and lead dancer. He is a compelling focus for this documentary, as a musician and dancer, and also in his capacity as a folklorist and lead interview subject.