Course info

Course Description:
This African Diaspora dance technique course builds on students African
Level I knowledge of movement, rhythms and cultural context of selected
dance traditions from the African Diaspora. The course will provide an active
dancing experience with live West African drum accompaniment, and student
opportunities to drum. In accordance with common West African traditions,
students will participate in full community engagement with their classmates
and learn the cultural context of each dance and rhythm studied. The survey
includes a focus on Mandiane drum and dance traditions from the Melenke
people of Senegal, and Soli and Kulu drum and dance traditions from the
Susu and Melanke people of Guinea.

Mandiani and Soli
Soli is a dance from the Susu and Malenke People of Guinea that observes
Rites of Passage in the transition from childhood, to adult. As well, Soli is a
social dance seen at community gatherings to affirm character.
Mandiane: From Senegal, Mandiane commemorates Rites of Passage within
the Mandika Society.

Kuku
“Kuku is a rhythm from the Susu ethnic group in the forest region of Guinea
around the city of Beyla (Not far from the Ivory-coast border). It is one of
the most popular west African rhythms. In Guinea, it is played in many
different celebration occasions, and at very different speed, depending on
the region. It was originally played without Doundoumba/Sangban/Kenkeni
for women to dance when returning from fishing.”
Source: wpsu.psu.edu - Roots of Life Intro to West African Dance