Dance

The name of African dance is actually a bit misleading or too simplistic. Probably as if we would say European or Asian dances. For example, Spanish flamenco has nothing to do with the Czech Cossack. Similarly, South African folklore has nothing to do with Egyptian belly dancing. Throughout Africa, there are as many different styles as cheese types.

Thus, to clarify what kind of afro dancing and teaching I practice, it is a style coming from West Africa, the countries of Guinea Conakry, Mali and Senegal. In these countries, dance is considered a natural human expression, regardless of age, character and experience. It is the right to express the joy of movement that local people are able to indulge. They dance at celebrations, betrothals, weddings and plenty of other events. Drummers play drums and singing is often included. Each celebration has its traditional rhythms and dance moves.

Nowadays, dance and music are being modernized. In one rhythm, besides traditional moves, there are others remodeled or new ones are invented. Choreographies are fully composed and often accompanied by theatrical elements creating complete narratives. This style is called “Ballet Style”, because “ballet” is the name for a dance group (e.g. Ballet de Merveilles, Ballet Africaine). Most teachers in Europe teach ballet style nowadays.

Although afro dancing is about specific moves, everyone can find and express their own style in it. The music that accompanies us under the baton of enthusiastic drummers is the engine and motivation to experience every single moment to the fullest. Rhythm, joy of movement, joy within ourselves. You do not have to dance as an ivory coast dancer, but it is important that you feel comfortable and dance from your heart.