About West African Dance

West African Dance? What’s that?

West African dance is a collection of creative movement based on traditional dances originating in Ghana, Africa. These dances teach social patterns and values, and they help people celebrate festivals and funerals, competitions, history and stories, proverbs and poetry.

The main instrument of West African Dance is the hand drum. The drum is a sign of life – it’s beat is the heartbeat of the community and dance. The drum rhythms and patterns, the tones and timbres of the instruments evoke emotions and touch the souls of those who hear its sound. In an African community, people come together to the sound of the drums as a time to connect with each other and to be a part of the collective rhythm of life in which old and young, men and women, rich and poor are all invited to contribute to society.

West African Dance uses the shoulders, chest, pelvis, arms, legs and all parts of the body to move to different rhythms in the music. There are, at times, complex movements that are possible even though the body doesn’t move through space! Strong foot patterns, jumping and feet stamping, using vocals and arm paths is what makes up this colorful and ever powerful dance. It’s fun for the whole group!

What to Expect

During these dance classes you can expect to sweat, get loud and have a great time. You’ll learn musicality, power and grace, develop an instant love attraction to the intoxicating drum rhythms.

Each West African Dance class will try it’s best to incorporate live drumming when possible, though drummers are sparse in the city. If you’re a hand drummer and would like to join our rhythmic classes please don’t hesitate to contact us.

What to Wear & Bring

For classes students should wear comfortable exercise clothes that allow for a full range of motion. As an alternative, and perhaps a little more ‘traditional’ performance style, students can wear dark leggings/shorts and a tank top with a wrap sarong skirt for color, though this is optional.

The class will take place in bare feet, however if students wish to wear a light dance slipper this is okay. Socks will be slippery and are not recommended. Students may also wish to bring a water bottle and a towel if they are prone to perspiration.

African Dance Classes