Private Classes
Contact Director for more information.
Enjoy one-on-one sessions, learning the rich history of West African dance and the African Diaspora. In this class you will explore at your own pace, whether the goal is to learn rhythm, prepare for a performance or to exercise. This class is for you. Add to Cart
Youth 4-8
Sat: 1p - 2:30p
Children will explore exciting rhythms, identify drums and sounds. Learn traditional West African Dance with sticks, exciting props while exercising too! Through play, games, drum, dance, call and response, students will learn how to dance styles and play rhythms from Africa and its Diaspora (West Africa, Cuba, Brazil, to name a few). This fast paced, interactive class engages children with creative dance movements from Congo, West Africa, Brazil and more.
Students will develop balance, flexibility, strength, positive self-esteem, and learn group dynamic skills. Class opens with play, followed by chants and songs. Dance/drum warm ups (including hand and finger warm ups, storytelling and interactive games) transition into games and songs like freeze dance with colorful scarves and ribbons, and the cowbell crawl. Hand drum work with rhythms from, West Africa, Brazil and the Diaspora will help develop hand-eye coordination, listening and focus. Children will be dancing, drumming and singing with joy! Parents and guardians should come ready to play and participate! Add to Cart
Adult Beginner
Fri: 7p - 8:30p Sat: 1p - 2:30p
Learn the basics of authentic West African Dance in this beginner class. Class opens 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 begins with a brief history and context of the dances (that will give way to your execution of the movements) and continues with an extensive breakdown of technique. Lastly, you’ll practice what you’ve learned as you move across the floor. (1) Complimentary Class offered after registration. Add to Cart
Advanced
See Workshops
Learn West African rhythms and dances with Maya Michelle! Maya is excited to offer you a chance to learn the high energy Guinean dances from the Guinea-Bissau region, south west of Mali. Where dance’s and rhythms, are inspired by nature and traditional celebrations. The Guinean family of dances are often fast-paced and feature intricate footwork and expressive arm movements. The dance Ekonkon, for example, draws its movements from rice planting and harvesting, while the movements in Linjin and Lamba emulate a flying crane! Maya brings a warmth and presence into the classroom that encourages each student to feel at ease, inspiring the freedom to open up to the rhythm. Add to Cart
Master Class
See Schedule for upcoming dates.
No choreography needed. Pure high paced dancing diving deep into technique, rich history, tradition, song, and cultural language. This one-week session ensures your ability to speak the body language of the country. Add to Cart