Can you feel the beat? This weekend is the much anticipated, annual Kuungana Drum & Dance Conference! This festive workshop features master drummers and dancers from all over the world. Hear rhythms and see dance styles from the nations of Africa and beyond. From November 8-10, attendees will have the chance to learn West African drum & dance from unique instructors specializing in the djembe, sabar and dundun instruments; as well as Kutiro and Congolese dance styles. All classes will be taught at the Flint Masonic Temple.
On Saturday, November 9 the conference concert will take place at the University of Michigan-Flint Theatre at 8pm. The concert features the Kuungana dancers, Assan Konte from Kankouran West African Dance Company in Washington, D. C., and special guest Idy Ciss. The concert is full of West African dancing, colorful costumes, culture and fun!
The Kuungana Drum and Dance Company was founded by Mr. Kevin Collins as part of the Flint Public Schools Curriculum, and continues today through the help of the Ruth Mott Foundation and other community organizations. The Kuungana Company is renowned throughout the nation and has performed at the International Festival in Washington, D.C., at music festivals throughout Michigan, with the symphony orchestra in Grand Rapids, and for the King of Ghana. They continue to lead the Juneteenth Parade in Flint.
