Arts and Culture, Community News

Upcoming: KanKouran Celebrates Senegalese History at Dance Place

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KanKouran West African Dance Company presents their annual much-anticipated celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.—an electrifying, athletic and family-friendly performance of traditional West African dance and drumming. This year’s performance, entitled Sounougal: Our Boat, takes audience members on a majestic journey that explores how freedom was fought for and won in Senegal—a nation of millions with one heart and one soul. Experience this exhilarating and inspiring performance on Saturday, January 17 at 8pm and Sunday, January 18 at 4pm at Dance Place.

About KanKouran West African Dance Company
KanKouran West African Dance Company was formed in 1983, in Washington, DC, by Artistic Director Assane Konte and former Director of Music, Abdou Kounta, who grew up together in Dakar, Senegal. KanKouran was founded to contribute to the extension of the arts by introducing the essence of traditional African dancing and drumming to audiences; enriching American cultural heritage through the integration of authentic West African performing arts; and promoting intercultural understanding through education and the performing arts. 

The company’s success is perhaps best judged by its longevity and by the large number of company and community members who are involved in diverse academic, professional, and entrepreneurial pursuits, and who credit KanKouran with instilling within them the discipline, pride, and commitment to self and community which have made their life pursuits meaningful as well as successful. Over the years, KanKouran has established itself as a premier center for the study and performance of traditional West African dancing and drumming. Weekly classes for adults and children have been a key component of furthering the company’s mission and establishing an appreciation for African performing arts in the United States. KanKouran’s annual African dance and drum conference is the largest, longest-running gathering of student- through master-level African dancers and drummers. The Company has also worked extensively to bring African dance and drum to children of all ages via various in-school and extra-curricular programs.
 
WHAT: KanKouran West African Dance Company

WHEN: Saturday, January 17 at 8pm and Sunday, January 18 at 4pm

WHERE: Dance Place, 3225 8th Street NE, Washington, DC 20017; two blocks from Redline Brookland/CUA Metro station; free and convenient parking

TICKETS: $30 Admission At the Door; $25 Admission (Advance Sales only)*; $20 Dance Place Members, Seniors (55+), Artists (Advance Sales only)*; $15 College Students and Children (17 & under)

*Advance Sales end 4 hours prior to performance start time.

To purchase tickets, visit danceplace.org or call 202.269.1600

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