Celebrating Black Dance: An Intro to West African Movement

Celebrating Black Dance: An Introduction to West African Movement

*Taught to Live Drummers

This beginner friendly dance class provides an introduction to West African dance movements and rhythms. We will focus on dance movements from the countries of Guinea and Senegal West Africa. Movements that are coordinated with the live djembe (drum) accompaniment will excite and inspire you to move your body in ways you have never moved. Bring water and a towel, as this class will make you break a sweat.

Dr. Kya Conner (Dance Instructor)

Dr. Kya Conner is Professor of Social Work, Director of the Center on Race and Social Problems and Associate Dean for Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Pittsburgh. She is also an adjunct professor of Dance where she teaches introduction to West African Dance and a performance class focused on African dance styles. She has been a principal dancer and choreographer for Balafon West African Dance and Drum Ensemble (Pittsburgh, PA) and Kuumba Dancers and Drummers (Tampa, FL). Dr. Conner has performed all over the world and was featured in the 2020 release of major motion picture “Coming to America 2”. A few other major performances include: Dancer and Choreographer Odun Ogunano “Omalosa” (2020); Wakanda Forever, Carnival Cruise Lines (2019); Welcome to Africa, Performance at The World Bank, Washington, DC (2012) and Performance to the Ambassadors, Guinea Embassy, Washington, DC (2012).

IG: @kyadancer

Papa Cheikh Ndong (Lead Drummer)

Cheikh N'Dong is a Master drummer from Dakar, Senegal. He is a Master at Kutiro, Sabar and Djembe. He has studied Senegalese drumming for over 30 years and played with many dance companies in Senegal including the National Ballet. Cheikh came to the United States in 2000 as a drummer with the Mandinka Epic. Since then, he has taught percussion at multiple Universities, has been the artistic and musical director for numerous West African dance companies and performances, and continues to teach his craft at community classes and events in the Pittsburgh area.