In-Studio Class
Donation – $7-25

Join us for an exploration of West Africa through dance! Class begins with a warm-up that is designed to improve flexibility, strengthen the core, improve stamina, and get acquainted with West African music. The second part of the class starts with a brief history and context of the dances (that will inform your execution of the movements) and continues with an extensive breakdown of technique. Then, you’ll practice what you’ve learned in repetition.

This course is typically taught by Dr. Darian Parker. But through September, we will welcome a variety of guests.

M'Bemba Bangoura has traveled throughout the world as a performer and teacher of African drum and dance and is revered worldwide for his high level of mastery. A native of Guinea, West Africa, M'Bemba was acclaimed as a master drummer by the age of 21 and was invited to play for Ballet Djoliba, the most respected ballet company in Guinea at that time. Since moving to the US in 1992, M'Bemba has been an integral part of most major drum and dance conferences nationwide. He has taught hundreds of students, many of who are now teachers themselves. In addition, he has personally created choreography and developed repertoire for dozens of dance companies in New York City and abroad. M'Bemba is one of the foremost ambassadors for Guinean drum and dance.