Balafon West African Dance Ensemble

Balafon West African Dance Ensemble

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Balafon West African Dance Ensemble

Balafon West African Dance Ensemble

Fri, Sep 10, 2021, 5:00pm
  • Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
  • Allegheny Overlook

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Balafon is a performing ensemble that also offers immersive movement and musical programs. Experience African culture up close. Explore rich Guinean traditions, and a taste of classical arts from other areas of West Africa and beyond.

Balafon was born in Washington D.C. in 1997 out of the passion for dance that Kadiatou Conte shared with her core of dedicated students. Approaching dance as a way to share the joy of African arts and offer culturally responsive health and wellness, the performance company was involved in youth and community engagement while also mastering classic dance styles often shared on the Kennedy Center stage.

Today based out of Pittsburgh, PA, Balafon works in partnership with local artists, alumni dancers from all over the country, and master dancers and musicians from around the world. From school to communities to the theater, Balafon programs offer ways for people of all generations, backgrounds and physical abilities to discover a love for African culture and experience dancing out loud.

Bringing Mama Kadiatou’s theatrical flair gained from years touring with Guinea’s national dance company, and her desire to break the mold as one of the few women-led directors of an ensemble, Balafon skillfully blends the classic traditions of West African culture with contemporary arts and social consciousness. Elaborately colorful costumes, heart stirring live music, and high energy movement captivate, inspire and energize audiences from all backgrounds and walks of life.

Accessibility:

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