World of Music: Balafon (West African Drumming & Dance) - Alphabet City, Northside

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Now 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.

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.

Photo Courtesy: Balafon