Dance Motion USA 2010, a recap

3 companies
9 countries
12 U.S. embassies & consulates
16 cities
21 public & student performances
33 artists
89 days
104 exchange & education activities
585 books & DVDS distributed to 27 libraries
11,000+ unique web site visitors
15,220 audience members & participants
553,469 air miles
1,000,000+ media impressions

From January through March 2010 ODC/Dance, Evidence: A Dance Company and Urban Bush Women spread out across the globe as the inaugural artist-diplomats of DanceMotion USA(sm). The stats above are nifty, but the stories told by the dancers in this blog provide the more compelling record. And these figures can only hint at the power of the interactions and the impacts of these exchanges for audience members, workshop participants, peer artists, and students. After the tours ended we asked our host Embassies and their in-country partners for their feedback. Here are some of their comments:

“It is rare to find a performance company that is able to combine their passion for the stage with an ability to be strong agents for cultural diplomacy. [Evidence] scores top points for their versatility, passion, talent, skill and the ease with which they engage with youth from another continent.” —Grahamstown Festival, Grahamstown, South Africa

“The goodwill created by UBW was very powerful. The work was deep in meaning…It connected with the African roots of Venezuelans and it showed the diversity of American culture. Some audience members were so moved by [the piece] Walking with Pearl…Southern Diaries they cried during the performance.” —U.S. Embassy, Caracas, Venezuela

“The ODC dancers were true diplomats and the best representatives of our country.” —U.S. Embassy, Rangoon, Burma

And here are some responses from the media….

In her blog review about ODC’s Bangkok performance, Pawit Mahasarinand of Thailand’s The Nation wrote: “It’s delightful, always, to be able to watch a world-class company perform. People were again left wondering why we see [so few] shows from the U.S.”

Nigeria’s NEXT covered Evidence in its performances at two different Lagos venues: “The evening with Evidence was a display of seamlessly tailored moves drawn from traditional Latin American, West African, and Caribbean dance cultures woven into original, more contemporary dance steps. The dancers’ talent and [Ronald K. Brown’s] creative ability culminated in show-stopping performances.”

Of Urban Bush Women’s performance in Cartagena, Colombia’s historic Teatro Adolfo Mejia, El Universal wrote: “We need only three words to describe the experience: extraordinary, shocking, sublime.”

The inaugural activities of DanceMotion USASM were the culmination of two years of work from the initial proposal to submission of final reports. Lisa Booth and I extend our thanks to Brenda, Jawole, Ron and their extraordinary dancers and staffs, our US Embassies and in-country partners abroad and, especially to all at BAM, the finest Producer with whom any General Manager could hope to partner.

Stay tuned for news about the program’s future in the coming months.

—Deirdre Valente, VP, Lisa Booth Management, Inc.

The New York Times: Dance for Diplomacy

The New York Times featured an excellent piece on Dance Motion USA by Roslyn Sulcas this past weekend. She accompanied Evidence: A Dance Company on many of their activities in South Africa, and interviewed members of Urban Bush Women and ODC/Dance about their respective experiences in South America and Southeast Asia. Read the article online:

The Soft Steps of Diplomacy

EVIDENCE visits Nike Okundaye at the NIKE ART GALLERY in Nigeria

Nike Art Gallery

On Sunday, March 7, 2010, we went to the gallery of the artist Nike Okundaye. Nike greeted us with a very warm and inviting welcome. The gallery was huge, white walls and several floors filled with very colorful and amazing art works of many artists. There were tons of paintings but there was also furniture, jewelry, fabrics, clothing, sculptures, beaded art work and the list goes on! As a visual artist, it was truly inspiring to be there and see the many ways each of the artists expressed themselves. The textures, vibrant colors, sand, beading, metal, so many elements included in each of the works! The way the fabrics were dyed and just the intricate detailing of how everything came together showed the deep passion and heart of every piece of work in the gallery. I was happy that those artists have a home to house their work for all to see and an advocate like Nike who can aid in their growth and development.

Inside the Nike Art Gallery

Oil painting on canvas

After viewing the gallery we sat down to talk with Nike and her husband. She had a spread of teas, coke, water, wine, and coffee for us to enjoy ourselves. She wanted us to feel like we were home. She also wanted to give each of us Nigerian names, which i was also very excited about!! Before she gave us our names, some other guests were entering the gallery and she stepped away for a minute to speak with them. At this time, her husband wanted to tell us more about Nike and the gallery. It was a blessing to hear him speak about the work of his wife and the testimony of her life. It was just confirmation for me that everything we do and go through, whether good or bad, with time will be a blessing to all!! God works out all things in the end, for our good!!

Learning the craft of dyeing

When Nike came back she gave us our names, each name fit us well and made us all smile!! After that, we all remembered some things in the gallery that really spoke to us that we wanted to buy. We were very excited and happy about our purchases and most importantly visiting the gallery of this amazing artist, Nike!! It was a great blessing!

EVIDENCE with Nike Okundaye and US Consulate

-Francine Ott

EVIDENCE first master class in Nigeria

March 6, 2010

Outside the Terra Kulture Center

Our first master class in Nigeria was at an arts center named "Terra Kulture". It was a class for about fifty children from ages four to eleven. For such a large group of kids, I think we were all expecting it to be a bit loud and rowdy as we entered the room. But they seemed surprisingly disciplined, the inside voices were on! We divided them into three groups according to age. I assisted Arcell with the four to six year olds. It reminded me of the creative movement classes I used to assist with in New York. Kids at that age are just so open and eager to learn. It makes teaching feel just that much more rewarding. And gives you a greater responsibility as they are also more impressionable. Even if they don't remember what we physically did in class, the experience will stick with them in its own way shape or form. They all did very well picking up what we showed them and seemed to enjoy themselves the entire time. After we gave the class we flipped the script and asked them to teach us. Most of them were a bit shy, but a few of the older children showed us some movements from different traditional Nigerian dances. It was a nice exchange and a great start to our stay in Nigeria.

Clarice learning a traditional Nigerian dance from the students

-Lilli Tai

EVIDENCE exchange with Flat Foot Dance Company Durban South Africa

Our first day in Durban, South Africa, began with a workshop at Kuzulu Natal University with the “FLAT FOOT DANCE COMPANY”. When we arrived, the company was very excited as they greeted us with big smiles and t-shirts. The day began with Ron teaching a 2 hour workshop. After a 10 minute break, One of the dancers taught us a few traditional Zulu dances and songs that lead to us forming a circle and taking turns improvising with the material we learned in a traditional setting. It was FUN!!! …the exchange did not end there. Another dancer who was also the veteran of the company taught a contemporary style of dance called Isipansula/Kwaite. Apparently it is the new dance craze sweeping across South Africa. We all had a great time learning the phrase, especially at the end where we all turned to the back and commenced in isolated butt contractions! We couldn’t help but break into laughter every time we did it.

Ron Brown talking to the dancers about performing

Ron Brown rehearsing with Flat Foot Dance Company

Soon it was time for lunch that was held in the performing arts library. We were served many Indian style finger foods due to the fact that the Indian population is so big. South Africa is home to the second largest Indian population outside of India. This was our time to communicate and share with the other dancers our experiences in Africa thus far. We also discussed the different views of arts and politics in South Africa. One thing was for certain, “funding” is a HUGE challenge for the arts and dance companies worldwide.

Kuzulu Natal University

The culmination of the day was an informal performance in a black box theater. FlatFoot Dance Company opened with a short piece in their repertory, followed by a joint performance of “Premonition”, EVIDENCE performing “Upside Down”, and at the end all of us performing the phrases that we had learned from earlier in the day. The result was “evidence” of a multicultural exchange between the two different yet enthusiastic companies both eager to share and learn.

EVIDENCE and Flat Foot Dance Company

Upon our departure from the performance, it was finally time to eat. We had an amazing seafood dinner overlooking the ocean. I had a local fish called Dorado over sweet potatoes. DELIGHTFUL!

-Annique Roberts

EVIDENCE visits a BIG 5 Game Reserve in South Africa

Today was our second day off of the tour, so we decided to treat ourselves on a Safari "BIG 5" Game Reserve Tour. We left the hotel in the afternoon and were driven to the Sibuya Game Reserve.

Sibuya Game Reserve is a 2300 hectare Big Five reserve conveniently situated near Kenton on Sea in the Eastern Cape along South Africa's Sunshine Coast, just 130 kms from Port Elizabeth and 150 kms from East London.

Uniquely, we journeyed by boat up the stunningly beautiful Kariega River Estuary, to a tented camp/dining area situated at the water's edge to experience an eastern cape meal that was DELICIOUS and perfectly matched with a lush outdoor ambiance. After we ate, we rode in a 10 seater open jeep onto the lush subtropical Eastern Cape Valley Bushveld and Coastal Forest which played host to one of the highest densities of wildlife on the continent. We were on our way to witness what was known to be one of the best game viewing experiences in Africa.

The scenery was breathtaking! We witnessed only yards away from us the African elephant, rhinoceros, giraffe, lion, cheetah, zebra, monkey and more. It was amazing to see the beauty of them all living and coexisting peacefully in their natural habitat. It was by far more fascinating than any visit to the zoo or circus that I had made as an adolescent. Initially we were honestly a little scared of how they would react when they saw us, but their relaxed nature let us know that they did not feel any danger from a jeep full of tourists snapping photos in awe. Once the sun was starting to head down, we enjoyed a pleasant boat ride viewed against an Indian Ocean backdrop which completed another truly memorable experience that we will ALWAYS remember.

Clarice, Dalila, and Annique

-Arcell Cabuag

EVIDENCE arrives in Durban, South Africa: "WORLD CUP FEVER!"

March 2, 2010

We arrived in Durban, South Africa. WOW!!!

The moment we arrived and entered the airport it was apparent that "WORLD CUP FEVER" was in the air.

Durban was one of the cities picked to host the games. They built a stadium in its honor and we could see construction and beautification of landscaping taking place in preparation for the many out-of-towners that would be here to witness. It was a happy time for the people of Durban because this would be an opportunity for the city to not only flourish with money from all of the tourists, but be an opportunity for "football" (soccer) fans to share in the joy of this historically popular sport.

Durban, South Africa, showing their pride in hosting the 2010 World Cup 

Although I am not an avid soccer fan, I couldn't help but feel the spirit from all of the propaganda. It honestly was very exciting to be in one of the cities where one of the biggest sporting events of the year was going to take place.

100th day to the World Cup countdown

While we were in Durban, we stayed at the luxury Sunset Coast Towers Hotel and Casino. Upon our arrival, they were celebrating the "World Cup 100 day countdown". Colorful soccer balloons filled the lobby joined with a staff all wearing jerseys representing their pride for South Africa. It was definitely a treat to be in such a nice hotel for just a few days after coming from a bed and breakfast in Grahamastown. We woke up to a delicious breakfast buffet, a fully equipped gym, and a GORGEOUS view of the ocean outside of our windows.

While in Durban we also had the opportunity to visit the African Art Center where we purchased South African books, jewelry, art, baskets, cards, and even finely beaded eating utensils.

Annique Roberts with the South African World Cup mascot

Another highlight was visiting the newly built stadium where we were able to buy souvenirs and gifts. It was a little difficult for us to leave. I felt like a little kid visiting the Disneyland gift shop for the first time, just wanting anything with the logo on it. I HAD A... "BALL"!!! (no pun intended...lol)

-Arcell Cabuag

EVIDENCE school performance in Grahamstown, South Africa

March 1, 2010

Today we had our 2nd performance here in Africa on our DanceMotion USA tour. This performance was different than Senegal. We performed to a full seat theater full of children from many different neighboring schools in Grahamstown. The reception was no different than the last show. The children were very excited within only the first 2 minutes. It was great!

Tiffany, Lilli, and Clarice

We performed "Order My Steps" and "Grace". Dancing for the children was exhilarating. They threw so much energy at us, we couldn't help but just give it back. It was honestly one of our best performances to date. Normally performing school shows you hear the loudest roar of screams when the lights turn off at the beginning of the show. This was not the case in this instance. They were loud and very vocal throughout.

Meeting the children and answering their questions

After completing the show, the children stood up and cheered. Many screamed out that they wanted to see more. Instead, we changed our clothes and had a Q and A so we could answer their questions and meet them face to face with the lights on. They were very well behaved and had many "smart" questions. One child spoke about how she liked how different we all were and how different we all danced but still belonging to the same family. Many asked if we could come back and wanted to be in the company when they grew up. The exchange we made at this show was short, but we know we must come back to continue to share and teach these children the legacy of this work.

-Arcell Cabuag

EVIDENCE workshop Amaphiko at Joza, Grahamstown, South Africa

February 27, 2010

Our first workshop in South Africa was in a Township called Joza. We were joyously greeted by a small but strong group of children with song and warmth as soon as we pulled up in the van. My eyes actually welled up with tears as we walked through the group of singers and they parted for us to enter the building. It was an extremely humbling experience to have someone greet me with simple yet moving songs. That was a first for me and it was greatly accepted and appreciated.

Children singing to us as we arrive to teach a masterclass... AMAZING!

Once inside, the children enthusiastically showed us their famous Gumboot Dance. This is a dance that uses the whole body, especially the feet and hands, to create polyrhythms. I have seen the African-American fraternities and sororities use it as a base for their form of 'stepping'. It was one of those Oprah 'full circle' moments because i got to see firsthand where something that's so popular in the States in my culture originated.

Demonstration of South African Gumboot Dance

After they showed us their dance, Ron then taught a class with all of us helping him. The age range was from about 5-15 years and it included about 40 children. It was one of the most energizing experiences that I had in South Africa. The people were bursting at the seems to learn from us and share their culture. Later we also got to spend time hanging out and talking with some of the artists and teachers from the town. We learned that even though we may live miles and countries apart, we are very much the same—people trying to make a difference in our communities.

EVIDENCE and Makana Arts

-Clarice Young

EVIDENCE arrives in South Africa

February 26, 2010

Port Elizabeth Airport

We made it!!! After 2 days of traveling we arrived in Port Elizabeth and took a 2 hour drive to our destination: Grahamstown, South Africa.

Lilli excited to see that we were greeted by our drivers of Perlemoen Escapes

The moment we arrived we knew the culture and energy was very much different. The Bed and Breakfast where we were staying at was located in the heart of college town Rhodes University. Much to our surprise, it felt like many of the other college towns we have visited in the U.S.A. It was very reminiscent of Connecticut. Right away, we could see that this part of our journey would be much different than our experience in Dakar.

Sule in front of the Lantern Hill Guest House

We look forward to the rest of the week and the new adventures and connections ahead.

-Arcell Cabuag

Departing Dakar, Senegal, on our way to South Africa

February 25, 2010

After a WONDERFUL 10 days in Dakar, Senegal, it is now time for us to venture to South Africa... next stop Johannesburg for a day, Grahmstown for 4 days, and then Durban for 3 days.

Floating over clouds on our way to South Africa

Our tour could not have started in a better place. As I sit in the airplane floating over the clouds, I reflect on all of the beautiful memories and wonderful people we met along the way. Much gratitude goes out to our Cultural Affairs Officers and Assistants (Kristin, Anita, and Aminata). Our interpreter Serigne Diagne, the administrative staff and participants of all of the Cultural Centers we visited at Blaise Senghor Cultural Center, Douta Seck Cultural Center, Pikine Cultural Center. Youssou N'Dour for his generous invitation to visit his private rehearsal, the US Ambassador Madame Marcia Bernicat, Germaine Acogny and the staff at Ecole des Sables, the dancers of Jant-bi, the wonderful crew at the Sorano, the staff at Hotel Le Djoloff and Magic Land, Tracy (our friend who escorted us to Goree Island), Joe Melillo for making this all possible, and Moussa our driver who transported us to our destinations safely.

Welcome to Dakar, Senegal orientation

Thank you Thank you Thank you for making our experience in Dakar, Senegal, so beautiful. We will always remember how gracious everyone was in making sure we had everything we could possibly need... WE WILL BE BACK!

Senegalese flag

-Arcell Cabuag

EVIDENCE visits Goree Island

February 21, 2010

View of Goree Island from the boat

While I was on the ferry ride to Goree Island, I kept wondering what this small island could have that would make country after country try to conquer and keep it. On this trip, I quickly found that answer out. This position of this island made it great for the slaveholders because it was close to the mainland yet far enough away so that the slaves couldn't swim back home. It was perfect for them to get what they needed and sail off quickly.

I went to the island having some knowledge about it but luckily we had a great tour guide, Ali, that gave us great insight into the history of Goree Island.

What surprised me was that there are people still living on the island and calling it home. The island is very colorful, vibrant and alive despite its unthinkable history. Some of the things that were done to slaves was hard for me to comprehend. It's wild to know that humans treated other humans a certain way because of their skin color.

Handcuffs

The 'door of no return' was the part of the tour that really got to me. It was this bleak looking door that lead the slaves to a waiting ship that would take them away from home. Once they passed this point there was no going back.....ever. So many emotions ran through me at that point that I didn't want to feel. It was just an overwhelming sense of helplessness and gloom. You are surrounded by this beautiful view of the ocean with this antique-like doorway. Yet, there's this creepy feeling going through your bones knowing what this view truly held for my ancestors.

Clarice looking out the "door of no return"

I'm glad that I had a chance to see the history of Goree Island, my history, for myself and through my own eyes. No book or television could have ever given me this experience. Although it is an island with a heavy history, the spirit and charm of the people lift it beyond what it was into what it is now...a beautiful island.

-Clarice Young

EVIDENCE visits Toubab Dialaw Ecole des Sables Jant-Bi, February 22-24, 2010

Annique

The company's time in Toubab Dialaw, Senegal, was a worthwhile experience.We were at the home of the professional company Jant-Bi, Ecole des Sables, in which one of the main dance studios is sand. At the time of our visit, there was a seven week program taking place in which different dancers across the globe come to study the developed technique of Germain Acogny. The technique uses motifs of Senegalese lifestyles, dances of Senegalese culture, as well as a sampling of western European dance.

 Germain Acogny and Ronald K. Brown

Evidence's brief introduction to the form was most eventful as we were basically thrown in the sand, which had fluctuating marley and cement characteristics, and just had to follow what the company members were showing us. At times it was confusing, but for the most part it was an exchange of a lifetime! The energy of not only the visiting students, but the company, gave us a continued source of life and joy that helped us camouflage many of our mistakes. The two classes were merely the setup for our last night at the Sabar in the nearby village.

Group photo with members of the Jant-Bi Company

On our last night, we walked to the village where a number of the Jant-Bi members grew up to be welcomed by a plethora of kids that were running about playing tag, doing a little tease of some sabar steps, and delighting in their curiosity by asking us questions and wanting to engage in conversation. Sule, one of our company members created a game called "La Lumiere," which with my no knowledge of the French language, is "light." The kids tried feverishly to catch the light coming from our flashlight; as the kids became excited, WE became more excited and wanted to play more games like "red light, green light." We played games until the drums became more unified and began to beckon everyone to the circle.

One by one, children and adults began to dance sabar to the drums. As the specific rhythms changed, the onlookers/participants belted at the sound—cheered for friends and family as each person exuded their style and flavor. It was AMAZING to say the absolute least! Each woman and man possessed such charisma and personality as they executed the steps with pristine precision. They eventually pulled us to the center to join in the celebration; we were not as graceful, but we did revel in knowing one of the new rhythms known as the Obama—we danced it so HARD. It was a truly a blessing to be there and share in such an awesome event. Toubab Dialaw was just one of the many many highlights of our tour in Senegal. There is a feeling of home in the city and country that made us not want to leave. Without going on with more adjectives to describe our time at the school, I will leave a blank with an "etc." to know that my list goes on and on. _________________etc.

-Otis Donovan Herring

Performance in Dakar, Senegal—Sorano Theater, February 20, 2010

Our first performance in Dakar, Senegal, at the Daniel Sorano Theater was more than what we expected—filled with so much energy, excitement, and love! We were told in advance that people in Senegal love Bob Marley, so we knew the first piece “Order My Steps” would get them off of their feet. They applauded at every moment as if we were doing stunts or tricks!

Francine (Order My Steps)

Personally, I was a bit nervous, just thinking about how much our work includes so much traditional movement, I wondered how it would be received. I guess these were some of the same feelings Ron had when he first began shaping his vocabulary and style. There is definitely that feeling of perception. But I digress… The energy of the audience was through the roof, setting the tone for the night.

They were taking lots of pictures and the press was videotaping… there was one point where my eye caught a photographer at the corner on the stage! Definitely one of those double take moments! It was just very nice to see how we were basically treated like superstars! The one thing that makes our performances here in Africa so special is that they are free of charge and open to the public! It only seems right that we are allowed to have a great range of viewers from all walks of life.

Curtain call

After the show, so many folks wanted autographs, pictures, and interviews. Of course we couldn’t turn them down! After the hype and adrenaline settled down, it hit me that we just performed in Africa! Wow! I mean, when they say art/dance is universal, that is so real. To know that you have touched people worldwide, how can you top that? Truly a blessing!

-Tiffany Quinn

Faded Elegance

February 20, 2010

The Sorano Theater in Dakar, Senegal, has all of the structure and rigging of a great theater space fit for an Evidence Dance performance. However, due to lack of funding, interest and maintenance, many of the peripheral elements were old, tattered, or broken. What was not broken, however, was the spirit, willingness and ableness of the management and crew. After 3 grueling days, we managed to create a beautiful looking show. The crew told me that they learned so much by building our show from scratch and they applauded me with gratitude as the show closed. It made the frustration of Day 3, when I was exhausted and thinking I bit off more than I could chew, melt away. It was challenging, but ultimately rewarding for all.

-Dalila Kee, EVIDENCE Technical Director

Ronald K. Brown and EVIDENCE are invited to Youssou N'Dour's rehearsal

February 18, 2010

I had read that Youssou N'dour would perform at his club in Dakar, usually after midnite. I asked Aminata (our Program Assistant to the Cultural Affairs Officer) to check to see if he would be performing during our trip. One day on the tour bus she was speaking to him, or his manager, and Youssou asked "...is Brown here, I would like to meet him."

EVIDENCE and Cultural Affairs officers with Youssou N'Dour

She asked me if I was interested in meeting him, and I could barely contain myself. The week had already been full and wonderful and going to his club, talking and watching him rehearse was incredible.

Ron Brown and Youssou N'Dour

Humbled, grateful and inspired, forever.

Ronald K. Brown

SABAR party thrown in our honor

Wednesday, February 17, 2010 was a full day on the itinerary. First there were 2 simultaneous dance workshops held at the Blaise Senghor Cultural Center offered to local dancers and musicians, lunch, tour of the performance venue—Sorano Theatre—and a 2 hour rehearsal. All before returning to the hotel to freshen up and head back to Blaise Senghor Cultural Center for an outdoor atmosphere filled with joy, dancing and drumming.

Sabar is a flirtatious social dance of the Wolofs in Dakar, Senegal. Sabar is also the drum family that consists of 5-6 drums played by well skilled and synced musicians. Included with the Sabar orchestra, one will find a talking drum or tama being played as well.

Musicians prepare for the SABAR

We arrived at the center and immediately began to converse with familiar faces from the workshops and were introduced to more from the community. Over several conversations the drummers began to play different rhythms which called the community to the party. Right at sunset, it was a full circle mixed with the young and old, dancers and non-dancers, vendors, and more. All for one purpose: a SABAR PARTY!

 Dancers doing "The Obama"

One change of the rhythm sent young ladies running the full perimeter of the circle of people waiting to see who would dance first. One female after another took turns showcasing their finesse and fancy footwork in the sand. The excitement increased as more dancers took center circle. Seemingly plain but not quite, dancers came over to invite Evidence to take part in the circle. At that time a new rhythm and dance began called “The Obama.” We watched then joined in. I realize in that moment an exchange between the Senegalese and Evidence was taking place. We had a warm welcome since our arrival in the first workshop with the young adult dancers, but what made the exchange special is that I (we) immediately felt like a part of the community. As the night went on males, females, young and old were all celebrating and living in the moment.

Sule-Joel Adams

Reception at the U.S Ambassador's home

February 16, 2010

After a long day of classes, it was time to rush back to our hotel and get cleaned up. We had the honor and privelige of being special guests at Madame Marcia S. Bernicat's home. She is the United States Ambassador of Senegal.

On our way to the Ambassador's home (Sule, Arcell, Dalila, and Aminata)

When we arrived, we were WOWED at how beautiful her home was. We were served many delicious Senegalese hors d'oeuvres and introduced to many diplomats and Fulbright Scholars. We had a ball!

 Group photo with Madame Marcia S. Bernicat and Consulate representatives

Arcell

EVIDENCE teaches master classes in Dakar Senegal Africa

WOW!!! Where do I begin?

We arrived in Dakar Senegal on February 15, 2010. The moment we stepped off of the plane we knew that we were about to experience a tour unlike any other. It was clear that the 4 weeks ahead of us were going to change us as a group and individually in many different ways. Right away, Ron and I, along with assistance from the company members, started teaching workshops to local traditional dance companies and dancers in the community at the Blaise Senghor Cultural Center, Doubta Seck Cultural Center, and the Pekine Cultural Center.

Masterclass at Pikine Cultural Center with Salif Seida Dance Company

Douta Seck group photo

It was INCREDIBLE!!! A true cultural arts exchange indeed. It was an exchange that far exceeded my expectations of what I had anticipated. Although there was a language barrier, it did not get in the way. We all had one thing in common and that was our love and passion for DANCE. These classes did not take place in the your normal dance studio. No mirror, no marley, no ballet barre, and no sprung floor. None of that mattered however. It was a reminder that you do not need an elaborate fully equipped dance studio in order to create and share beautiful work. We had the pleasure and honor of working with a wide range of dancers including children, teenagers, professionals, and elders. Initially I wasn’t sure how they were going to receive what we had to share, but when I would turn around to watch the dancers in class behind me, it was clear. The room was filled with a sea of smiles and eager enthusiasm... they LOVED IT! It blew me away to see that they all shared the same joy for this movement and work as we do. They connected to it right away, and did not want to stop. Some classes became quite vocal because the excitement in the studio was so extreme. I was truly touched.

Clarice and Lilli (Sabar lesson)

The second day, one group brought musicians with them. When it was time for a 10-minute break I turned off the music and the drummers started to play. Instinctually, the dancers jumped up and started dancing the steps that we had shared with them. Shortly after, the music started to build and the dancers started dancing Sabar. It was AMAZING!!! We were witnessing these dancers doing steps that we also do in our repertory in its "true" form. Eventually they pulled us up and started teaching us how to do it. Before we knew it, we had a 45-minute impromptu Sabar class. They were so generous in sharing with us what they love, that it made me a little emotional. It was another true reminder of where some of the work we do originates from, and the feeling of "true joy" that comes along with performing these dances. We had experienced a cultural exchange through dance that we will never forget. We hope that one day we will have the opportunity to come back to connect with these dancers once again… If God permits, maybe one day collaboratively on stage.

 Arcell (Sabar lesson)

-Arcell Cabuag