with Alhassane “Papin” Camara

Monday, May 13

7:00 – 9:00 pm

$15 – $20 sliding scale

to benefit the master teacher

Alhassane “Papin” Camara was born in Conakry, Guinea, West Africa. His mother, Dah Camara was a dancer and Alhassane has been blessed with the same innate talent. He followed this calling, and by 11 years of age, he was fully immersed in Ballet Tayely in Guinea, studying, and performing traditional Guinea dances. Alhassane continued to excel, not only as a dancer, but as a fully trained musician, knowing all of the musical rhythms of the drums and accompanying instruments of the traditional Guinea dances. He proceeded to become the lead dancer and choreographer of his ballet company. Watch his class here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYoy69nP5Ko

Alhassane is forever grateful for his mentor ~ world-renowned, Youssouf Koumbassa!!!

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with Michael Cahill, Sekou & Moussa

Friday, June 29

7:00 – 9:00 pm

$12

Let your body shout and your spirit shine at this West African dance party to live drums! The teacher, Michael, and the drummers Sekou and Moussa, have you on your feet and grooving to the African rhythms in no time! All experience levels can enjoy this invigorating dance. Some instruction will be given initially.

Performance of choreographed Guinean dancing and talk on Guinean culture will also be part of this lively evening.