Balafon West African Dance Ensemble – Black River 2017
KST Presents
Presented in Collaboration by Balafon West African Dance Ensemble and Kelly Strayhorn Theater
EVENT DETAILS
Fri / October 27, 2017
8p / Kelly Strayhorn Theater
5941 Penn Ave :: Map
Black River Showcase: Generations Together
The Annual Black River experience showcases Balafon’s contemporary take on West African arts traditions, bringing spirited dance, song, and resounding live percussion to Pittsburgh audiences. The unique vitality of its intergenerational ensemble of dancers and musicians will inspire all ages.
Led by “Mama” Kadiatou Conte-Forte, Balafon West African Dance Ensemble is an African arts institution that combines classic rhythms of West Africa with heart-pounding choreography and stunning costumes. The Black River Showcase will feature choreography by Chicago-based Guinean dance Master Moustapha Bangoura. Balafon West African Dance Ensemble and the Balafon Youth Ensemble will be joined by special guests Sankofa Village of the Arts and nationally known improvisor Gia T, as generations and artistry converge for this evening of cultural exploration and celebration.
IN CONJUNCTION
Community Dance Workshop with Moustapha Bangoura
Sat / October 28, 2017
2p / KST Alloy Studios
5530 Penn Ave :: Map
For the first time in Pittsburgh, master dancer and choreographer Moustapha Bangoura will offer a community workshop. All ages and experience levels are invited to feel the rhythm of live drummers and explore dance techniques and cultural context of Guinean dance.
Moustapha Bangoura is an internationally acclaimed master dancer, drummer, choreographer, and educator. A 22-year veteran of the largest and most celebrated dance company from the continent of Africa, Les Ballets Africains of Guinea, Bangoura has been a traveling arts ambassador since 1997. He independently travels throughout the world to conduct music and dance residencies and share his knowledge and expertise of traditional dance and drum.
Moustapha Bangoura is the artistic director of Le Bagatae Dance and Drum Ensemble, and choreographer for Legends of West Africa. Mr. Bangoura has studied with many and is thankful to carry on the tradition of such Masters as Frankis Magloire Camara, Italo Zambo, Hamidou Bangoura, Kemoko Sano, and Sekouba W. Camara.
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TICKETS
Pay What Makes You Happy! Tickets for this event are available at any price. Simply choose the level that makes you happy—or name your own! All seats are general admission.
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