SPECIAL EVENTS REVIEWS
Thanksgiving Buffet at Plage De Yoff – Dakar Senegal! All you can eat Buffet. Hosted by Mawa’s American Restaurant this Thursday 12pm-3 at Sunny Moore’s Artist Cafe (Cite BCEAO-Yoff Beach). Please RSVP in advance by making payment via Wave to 78 127 98 03.
PROGRAMME Dakar Fashion Week 2022
– Vendredi 02 décembre 2022
15h00 Conférence de presse au Pullman
19h00 soirée d’ouverture au Pullman
21h00 Présentation mode jeunes créateurs
22h00 cocktail dînatoire et after party
– Samedi 03 décembre 2022
16h30 départ de l’embarcadère pour l’île de Gorée
17h00 cocktail de bienvenue
17h00 mise en place
18h00 début défilé
19h00 fin défilé début cocktail
21h00 retour chaloupe à Dakar
– Dimanche 04 décembre 2022
11h – 19h Brunch & Swape Shop au Pullman en collaboration avec Globale Fashion Exchange
15h00 Talk African dream
23h00 soirée de clôture au Phare des mamelles soirée blanche (soirée blanche)
* susceptible d’être modifié avant le 1 décembre 2022
America’s largest black film festival showcasing over 150 new films from Africa, the United States, Europe, the Caribbean, the South Pacific, South America, and Canada. This event also features 100 Black fine artists and craftspeople, poetry, fashion shows, free forums, and panel discussions.
Check online for films, times and ticket prices:
Fespaco Ouagadougou is an 8-day event being held from 23rd February to the 2nd March 2019 in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. This film festival showcases films & documentaries from the Media & Advertising industry. You may obtain more info here: https://fespaco.bf/en/
Make sure you attend the Pan African Film Festival at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza during Black History Month.
People from around the globe gather to attend the largest Black film festival in the United States. From a 100 million dollar blockbuster premiere to newly emerging Hollywood talent, The Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) showcases a broad spectrum of Black creative works from all over the globe, particularly those that reinforce positive images and help to destroy negative stereotypes.
Nowhere else can audiences find this unique opportunity to come together through film and art to explore new worlds, meet new people and acquire new information and ideas, only at PAFF!
You may obtain more info by visiting the website: https://www.paff.org
CELEBRATE 5 YEARS OF PRESENTING ORIGINAL WORKS OF AFRICAN DIASPORIC CULTURE HERE IN THE US!!!
Have you had the heart-moving experience of immersing in the richness of West African traditional arts and the traditional arts that were birthed through the diaspora? Get ready for the unforgettable two night event: “FOR THE CULTURE”. This September 14th and 15th, Africa In America will be celebrating the 5th Annual Original Works Showcase for African Diasporic Music and Dance. This year we will feature original works in theater, fashion, music and dance.
*****OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT****
I’m happy to announce that these artists will be blessing the stage September 14th and 15th from 8-10pm.
Starting off the show for another year, we have LAADE African Dance Troupe of Loyola Village Elementary School.
Debuting his fashion line Los Angeles, Mr. Senegal Louc Diouf
Debuting an original theater piece, NAACP Theater Award Winner Ms. Natali Miccichē
Presenting our live musical entertainment, AfroHaus
Debuting a full West African Ballet, Founder/CEO Kara Mack and musically Directed by Grammy Award Winner Magatte Fall
And Special Guest, Emmy Award Winning Tap Dancer Jason Samuels Smith
Join us at:
BGT Barnsdall Gallery Theater
4800 Hollywood Blvd
Los Angeles (CA)
you may purchase tickets here:
For over 30 years Assane Konte, co-founder and Artistic Director of KanKouran West African Dance Company, has staged authentic glimpses of the peoples and cultures of Africa.
KanKouran’s annual African dance and drum conference offered attendees a chance to experience the sights and sounds of West Africa. KanKouran invited us to become part of its wonderful community.
Hundreds of participants from across the country visited the nation’s capitol to partake in three days of intense workshops in traditional African dance and drum, taught by master dancers and drummers from Mali, Senegal, and Guinea.
KanKouran West African Dance Company was founded for the purpose of contributing 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. This year’s concert celebrated 35 years of fulfilling their mission of “…giving back that which was lost.”
Workshop Instructors & Performing Guest Artists
Mabiba Baegne, Fode Bangoura, Mariama Basse, Marie Basse-Wiles, Fode Camara, Mouminatou Camara, Idy Ciss, Kadiatou Conte, Souleymane Diop, Zak & Naomi Diouf, Madiou Diouf, Oumou Faye, Elhadji Faye, Brigo Gueye, Mar Gueye, Medoune Yacine Gueye, Youssouf Koumbassa, Abdou M’Baye, Assane M’Baye, Babacar M’Baye, Babacar N’Diaye, Cheikh N’Dong, Magette Sow, Balla Sy,
Da’African Village in partnership with Africa Love present A Touch of Africa Las Vegas (ATOALV), a one-day celebration that will feature world-class artists from Africa and the diaspora including African Soul International, an African dance, drum and music ensemble residing in Los Angeles, CA, master drummer from Ivory Coast, Papa Diarra Zumana and many others.
The event will highlight African culture through dance, drumming, musical performances, a fashion show and an African dance workshop.
2 PM – 3:30 PM | African Dance Workshop
Join us for an African Dance Workshop with African Soul International and local African drum and dance master artists currently residing in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event will be held at Rhythms Dance Studio & Events Center (4545 W Sahara Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89102).
PURCHASE AFRICAN DANCE WORKSHOP TICKET!
6 PM – 7:30 PM | Reception with local vendors and small businesses
Join us for a welcome reception at Clark County Library Theater (1401 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119) that will feature local vendors and small businesses. Have your picture taken at our step-and-repeat and mix and mingle with other attendees.
7:30 PM – 8 PM | Africa Love Fashion Show
Featuring the latest in African fashion, our Africa Love fashion show will highlight the diversity of the West African culture. Discover colorful African trends, and one-of-a-kind signature pieces.
8 PM – 9:30 PM | A Touch of Africa Las Vegas Show
A 90-minute drum and dance showcase and awards ceremony with African Soul International and other artists from Africa and the diaspora.
10 PM – Dawn | After Party
After-Party at Sivas Las Vegas Mediterranean Restaurant and Hookah Lounge with a live DJ from Renchy Sounds.
You may purchase tickets here and get more info here:
http://www.africalovestore.com/pages/a-touch-of-africa-las-vegas
Conscious Hip Hop Philly artist Dell-P’s new album features legendary and like-minded artist David Banner from Mississippi. This album was made to commemorate the anniversary of Hip Hop on August 11th and let the world know that lyricism will always matter. The album title represents one of the primordial elements of the culture which is the Emcee aka “Wordsmith”, and also Smith is Dell-P’s last name. This is his most personal album to date and he addresses issues such as politics, his love for Hip Hop, relationship goals, family, senseless violence, police brutality, and also being a positive light for the younger generation. This album could potentially take Dell-P to the next level, with its lyrical content and universal message.
“Wordsmith” will be available on all digital platforms on August 11th, 2018:
#Itunes #GooglePlay #Tidal #Spotify #Amazon etc…
For all booking inquiries contact @HisHersEntertainment and @BizPorter
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SOULNIC is a free, family-oriented dance music festival with DJs and live musicians who showcase the soulful sides of House music. Originally created in 2010, SOULNIC has quickly become L.A.’s largest Soulful Dance Music Festival. This is a one-of-a-kind event in Los Angeles that has been widely accepted by the community, attracting attendees of all ages and backgrounds.
To date, SOULNIC has more than doubled in size each year. This year, we anticipate 4,000 in attendance. And in order to meet the rising costs to produce this event, we are seeking to raise $65,000. A percentage of the proceeds will be donated to THE GOOD SEED SHELTER, Our charitable beneficiary. Good Seed Shelter’s mission is to help youth not only live, but thrive. We provide a supportive, nurturing and specialized care for homeless young people in California, through supportive housing, job training, comprehensive services and individual planning. The Good Seed creates an environment where youth, ages 18-25, can grow to achieve their full potential. Our aim is to ensure that youth have the tools they need to realize their goals and dreams, so that they may live healthy and meaningful lives.
The Good Seed Shelter attempts to fulfill a mission to “Shelter Those Who Are Homeless, Cloth Those Who Are in Need, Feed Those Who Are Hungry, and Assist Whenever We Are Needed.
We need your help to either become a sponsor or assist in finding sponsors. If you work for a company OR know of a company that has a charitable giving arm or a company that could benefit from a marketing partnership for this event, please contact us to provide a referral.
Once you’ve made the commitment to support SOULNIC, share this campaign and your SOULNIC experience with others. Be sure to ‘like’ the official SOULNIC Facebook page, tag yourself in our photo gallery and, if possible, attend one of our upcoming fundraising events.
You may obtain more info here: http://www.soulnic.tv
Join two-time Grammy Winner and Senegalese drummer Magatte Fall (Angelique Kidjo, Black Panther soundtrack) and Friends at this traditional Senegalese party to celebrate the beauty of West African Music & Culture. This event will take place at Lula Washington Dance Theater in Los Angeles (CA) (3773 Crenshaw Blvd).
Please save and share Facebook Event:
https://m.facebook.com/events/361520694332576
Janet Jackson and newly minted Academy Award nominee Mary J. Blige are among the headliners announced for the 2018 Essence Festival. The festival returns to the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans July 5-8.
The initial performance lineup also includes a headline set featuring Erykah Badu and Jill Scott with Snoop Dogg and other guests in a special curation by The Roots. Rounding out the first wave of announced headliners are Miguel, Fantasia and Xscape. Also scheduled to perform: Daniel Caesar, H.E.R., Kelela, Ro James, DVSN, 112, Mali Music, Kevin Ross, Marsha Ambrosius and Teddy Riley’s New Jack Swing Experience featuring Wreckx-n-Effect, BlackStreet and Guy.
More than 40 acts will appear between the Mainstage and the four Superlounges stationed inside the Superdome. Additional acts will be announced in the coming weeks. The Mainstage host is Roy Wood Jr.
You may purchase tickets here:
LA Marathon Winners: Weldon Kirui (Kenya) and Sule Gedo (Ethiopia).
Check this link for all official results:
https://www.trackshackresults.com/lamarathon/results/2018/
The 26th Pan African Film Festival fell once again during our crucial Black History Month, where we have the opportunity via a plethora of events and celebrations to connect Africa and its diaspora, and more importantly educate and inform the masses. The Pan African Film Festival encompassed all of these various activities at the Baldwin-Hills Crenshaw Mall, in the heart of South Central Los Angeles. Film and Documentaries from Africa and the Diaspora were shown to avid and conscious spectators, some of whom brought their children and families. The film festival offers spectators rare opportunities to ask the directors and actors questions, as well as offer amateur or professional critiques. My personal favorites this year were “Burkina Rising” discussing the life and death of the revolutionary Thomas Sankara and the comical Nigerian Love Story “Red Hibiscus”. Of course, the Centerpiece of the Festival was the now iconic “Black Panther” movie which was shown a day prior to its national release to a sold-out audience. The “Black Panther” theme was recurrent throughout the entire festival, as nightly food (Southern & Caribbean) and dance celebrations occurred, to the sounds of modern and classic music from Africa and the Diaspora. Vendors came from all over the US to sell African goods in the mall area, where an African-themed Fashion and Talent show also took place. The Pan African Film Festival truly lived up to its name as it was a definite success as usual, in its mission of unity, education and entertainment.
Check our Afrocentric clothing designs on: http://www.woloftimes.wordpress.com/wolof-wear/
Featuring four days of intense workshops in African drum and dance, an amazing performance, educational programs, and more representing the dynamism, vibrancy, and diversity
of the African Diaspora!
Classes are $20 at door and will be held at:
Malonga Casquelourd Center For the Arts
1428 Alice Street Oakland CA 94612
You may purchase tickets here:
Make sure you attend the 26th Pan African Film Festival during February 8th-19th at Balwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza in Los Angeles (CA). The film festival will showcase a variety of films and documentaries from Africa & its Diaspora. You can obtain more info here: http://www.paff.org
Africa in America Presents its 4th Annual Original Works Showcase for African Diasporic Music and Dance entitled “We the People…” October 27th and 28th 2017 at Barnsdall Gallery Theater! Both nights will begin at 8pm. This year we are focusing on original dance works, musical compositions, songs, and poetry as well.
Africa In America 2017 Showcase Presenters for “We the People…”
-Loyola Village Elementary African Drum and Dance Troupe
-Kara Mack- Original Dance
-Onyi-Original Song
-Shateir Butler-Spoken Word
-Maya Jupiter-Spoken Word
-Tatiana Zamir-Original Dance
-Nikki Campbell-Original Music and Dance (Afro-Panamanian)
-Magatte Fall-Original
Tickets can be purchased here:
http://africainamericamag.com/aia-events/
Venue
Barnsdall Gallery Theatre
4800 Hollywood Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Pho 323-660-4254
Adirée Fashion Agency (The fashion week event producers), partners and sponsors hosted Africa Fashion Week Los Angeles (AFWLA) in Los Angeles, California. AFWLA is a luxury multi-day event that includes Runway shows, exhibition, industry networking events, African music & food with the sole purpose of raising awareness of the African/ African American fashion & entertainment professionals. Proceeds went to non profits in support of African related causes. The event was a success as the venue was packed.
Check our Afrocentric clothing designs on: http://www.woloftimes.wordpress.com/wolof-wear/
The Desert is Freedom, Music is Power and Community is Crucial. friends and funsters who believe that music is the soul of life…The music is diverse from all over the World, positive and potent; featuring artists on the rise. A happy, loving and egalitarian space is created, where the boundary between artist and audience is blurred.
You may purchase tickets here:
https://www.stubhub.com/joshua-tree-music-festival-tickets/grouping/1494411/
Tickets can be purchased here:
https://tickets.brightstarevents.com/event/bhakti-fest-west-2017
Bhakti Fest is the premier yoga, sacred music, and personal growth festival in the United States. Since 2009, for six days each September, we have featured the best Yoga Teachers, Kirtan Musicians, and Workshop Leaders in the world. We are part of the Center for Spiritual Studies, a 501c3 nonprofit that supports charities across the globe, mainly in India. Proceeds generated each year, after we cover our costs, go to our chosen causes. We accept donations to help us provide extraordinary festivals and give support to those less fortunate than us. We hope to see you in the Bhav!
Bhakti Fest celebrates the devotional paths of yoga, Kirtan (sacred music), and meditation. Our festival is a drug and alcohol free vehicle for evolution of human consciousness through a heart-centered revolution. Bring your yoga mats this September to the idyllic Joshua Tree Retreat Center, located in the beautiful region east of Los Angeles. Practice with the best yoga teachers in the world, dance to sacred music by world-renown Kirtan artists, and take workshops with leaders in the field of personal growth. Camp out beneath the stars or stay at one of our many accommodations on and offsite; enjoy the swimming pool and free filtered drinking water; stop in at The Bhakti Family Village and expose your children to other enlightened youth and families; enjoy the best vegetarian food at any festival. We offer Student, Senior, Military and Local Resident discounts. We are building community—please join us!
Dream Weekend is Jamaica’s #1 and most anticipated music festival held on the white sand beaches of Negril, Jamaica, for 5 days of back-to-back parties with popular high-energy genres of music, performances from local and international artistes, inclusive of world-class liquor and food, with a level of production that makes the event a one of a kind experience!
Details
Event Prices: ALL prices are in US Dollars (Service charge included)
Event Transportation: Free Shuttle Service to & from all events
Season Band Prices (Incl Tax & Fees)
Please note: Digital Tickets are sent to your email address two (2) to three (3) days after purchase. If more than three days have passed please send us an email to info@jamaicadreamweekend.com with subject line: Ticket Query along with receipt issued by PayPal.
After digital tickets are received, kindly bring same to Jamaica along with your Government issued ID in order to redeem for season bands in Jamaica.
Details of our Redemption Centre location and opening times will be posted closer to event date.
Tickets can be purchased here:
The 2017 Hollywood Carnival was oh so colorful with Carribean, as well as South American and African participants & attendees, representing their flag colors via Carnival costumes and clothing, The City of Los Angeles was able to witness the parade which ended in West Hollywood where the party continued with various performances. The eclectic sounds ranged from Soca, to Calypso, to Reggae, to Hip Hop, to Salsa and to R&B. The Carnival also featured Carribean food vendors much to the delight of the audience. This event is a continuous success and showcases Africa and Diaspora unity at its best.
Check our Afrocentric clothing designs on: http://www.woloftimes.wordpress.com/wolof-wear/
Entering its 6th year, the Hollywood Carnival Parade and Festival will take over Hollywood Boulevard from 11am to 4pm on Saturday June 24 miraculously transforming this storied street into a grand carnival and extravaganza with marchers and masqueraders dressed in vibrant, breath-taking costumes, dancing to pulsating rhythms from around the globe. The celebration will begin at Hollywood Boulevard and Edgemont Street in Los Feliz and will proceed on West Hollywood Blvd. for three miles ending at the event’s Carnival Culture Village festival site at Highland Avenue in central Hollywood. The parade will feature over 30 bands with the pulsating rhythms of Calypso, Soca, Samba, Reggae, Zouke, Latin, Punta, Meringue, Mariachi, Reggaeton, Blues, Jazz, Steel-pan, Indian, Asian, African, Middle Eastern, and other global music. The Parade of Bands is a FREE event for ALL AGES to watch.
Following the high energy Hollywood Carnival Parade, all masqueraders, participants, and onlookers, will make their way into the Carnival Culture Village at 6800 Hollywood Blvd, open from 12 noon until 10pm. The Village is the grandest, most exciting and fully entertaining outdoor event for the Hollywood Carnival Weekend Experience. It is filled with a wide range of world cuisines, arts and crafts, and top headlining acts including the reigning King of Soca Machel Montano, dancehall/soca star Linky First, award winning Canadian/Jamaican singer Kreesha Turner, three time Belizian vocalist of the year Tanya Carter, and many more. Tickets for the Hollywood Carnival Culture Village are only $10 at https://www.universe.com/events/carnival-culture-village-tickets-GN60L1.
The Hollywood Carnival weekend kicks off on Thursday June 22 with a Welcome to Hollywood party at popular nightspot Lure, 1439 Ivar Avenue in Hollywood, featuring Bajan Superstar Rupee performing his greatest hits from “Ice Cream” to his recent smash hit “Tipsy.” Welcome to Hollywood is sure to kick off the weekend in the right direction.
The long weekend of partying Caribbean style continues on Friday June 23 with the ultimate day party “Fete du Jour” from 11am to 4pm. Taking place at Liaison Lounge (formerly and notably Les Deux Café), 1638 North Las Palmas Avenue in Hollywood. This event is the true taste of a sexy, high energy Caribbean day party. It will be filled with surprises that no other event during the Hollywood Carnival weekend will offer. Attendees will be amazed and never know what to expect aside from the music, beautiful people, and tropical atmosphere.
Ever since the birth of Hollywood Carnival, the Main Event, this year on Friday June 23 from 9pm to 2am, has been the Highlight of the entire carnival weekend, as it has always been graced with the hottest performers and DJs the music industry has to offer. This edition of the Main Event takes place at DTLA’s The Belasco at 1050 S. Hill Street and will feature Trinidadian soca artist and Soul Train Award winner Bunji Garlin, his wife, soca royal Fay Ann Lyons, and reigning Road March Champion, MX Prime. The Main Event is surely not one to be missed, as these entertainers along with some of the most talented DJ’s, will entertain all night long.
On Saturday June 24 following the high energy Hollywood Carnival Parade and Carnival Culture Village, The Official After Party is the event where attendees will be continuously entertained and guaranteed to end the day on a high note. This event will be filled with the most talented DJ’s worldwide including Soca Brainwash mix DJ Private Ryan, popular LA based soca dj DJ Stephen, DJ Eternal Vibes in from Miami, and many more.
Since Caribbean parties last all weekend, the Hollywood Carnival ends on Sunday June 25 with Shine from 11am – 5pm at popular Sunset Blvd hot spot Boulevard 3. Shine is one of the most anticipated events as it marks the end of the Hollywood Carnival Weekend Experience. This event features a wide range of entertainment that’s sure to keep attendees dancing, drinking, and enjoying the amazing vibes right until the end.
Bringing the vibes of the Caribbean to the streets of Hollywood for one magical weekend, revelers are encouraged to purchase full weekend passes at https://www.universe.com/events/hollywood-carnival-festival-pass-2017-tickets-VMC9BK as they represent a significant savings than buying each event ticket separately. For a true taste of the worldwide Carnival spirit, the Hollywood Carnival bring the sounds, tastes, and vibes of the islands to LA. Join the festival at https://www.hollywoodcarnival.com/.
Music, Art, Yoga, Dance, Camping & more on Memorial Day Weekend. Lightning in a Bottle (LIB) is a transformational festival in the Central Coast region of California presented by The Do LaB. The Do LaB seeks to promote sustainability, social cohesion, personal health, and creative expression. They have also contributed art installations to the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California.
You may obtain more and purchase tickets here: http://www.lightninginabottle.org
Kenya won the Los Angeles Marathon for the second time in three years, with Elisha Barno and Hellen Jepkurgat respectively placing first in the men’s and women’s events in two hours, 11 minutes and 52 seconds and two hours, 34 minutes and 23 seconds. Barno defeated three Kenyan countrymen: 2015 winner Daniel Limo, Willy Koitile and 2016 Los Angeles Marathon champion Weldon.
I was fortunate to participate in this Marathon, both as a runner and a reporter, for the second time since 2015 and beating my previous time by 16 minutes. This Marathon allows me to rediscover by running foot the beautiful city of Los Angeles and iconic surrounding areas: Pasadena, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Westwood, Brentwood, before finally crossing the Finish Line on scenic Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica.
Bunaama Diagne is an Editor/Reporter for Wolof Times.
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Dandha’s Afro Brazilian Dance classes are an invitation to explore the rich world of Afro-Brazilian Dance traditions with a gifted and dedicated teacher. Her classes focus on folkloric and Orixa-inspired dance, Samba Afro, and samba reggae, as well as other Brazilian dance styles and feature live drumming by talented local musicians. Dandha’s classes welcome students of all levels and backgrounds – everyone will find challenge and inspiration in her dancing and teaching!
Class is on Saturday March 18th, 2017, 2PM at:
Your Neighborhood Studio – When in Doubt, Dance
3625 Hayden Ave, Culver City, California 90232
Born and raised in Salvador, Bahia, Dandha Da Hora has been a member of Ilê Aiyê, one of Brazil’s most important musical and cultural institutions, since she was 6 years old. In her teaching, as well as in her performances, Dandha invokes the incredible spirit of Salvaldor, Bahia, Brazil and of Ilê Aiyê. A master dancer and dance teacher, as well as vocalist and percussionist, Dandha honors the incredible gifts of her culture every time she performs. As a lead dancer with Ilê Aiyê and one of the lead vocalists of music group SambaDá (based in Santa Cruz, CA), Dandha has shared the stage with Brazilian stars such as Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil and Daniela Mercury.
Established in 1986, the LA Marathon is one of the largest marathons in the country with more than 25000 participants. The race starts at the legendary Dodgers Stadium near Downtown LA and ends near the beach in Santa Monica. You may register for the race online: http://www.lamarathon.com/participant-info/registration
Registration fees go to charity for non-profit organizations.
Da African Village and the 418 Project presented a Day Of Africa, on December 17, 2016, which featured a program of five dance classes with teachers from Senegal, Congo, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Brazil and an evening performance of SambaDá with very special guests. This beautiful event was offered to the community as a fundraiser for both non-profit organizations. The 418 Project has been creating a space for global dance traditions and other arts in Santa Cruz for more than 30 years. Da African Village promotes cultural understanding between Africa and the world through music, dance and cultural exchange, as well as supporting educational programs and artists in the U.S. and in Senegal.
This was Afro-Brazilian Samba-Funk-Dance group SambaDá‘s last 2016 performance in Santa Cruz.
MANDJOU KONE’S CLASS:
DANDHA DA HORA’S CLASS:
VIVIEN BASSOUAMINA’S CLASS:
OUMOU FAYE’S CLASS:
MARIETOU CAMARA’S CLASS:
SAMBADA SHOW:
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The California Vegetarian Food Festival brings amazing eats, speakers, & entertainment to SoCal!
Foodies, locavores, vegetarians, vegans, flexitarians, and those who simply want to find out more about living a healthy, sustainable lifestyle, this is the festival for you! Vegan food companies, restaurants, and health and wellness vendors will congregate in Los Angeles to celebrate the delight of vegetarian food and cruelty-free living at the California Vegetarian Food Festival.
The festival will feature food sampling and purchased meals, environmental and animal welfare information tables, and live entertainment and activities throughout the day.
You may purchase tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/california-vegetarian-food-festival-2016-tickets-26154097610
Da African Village and the 418 Project would like to present a Day Of Africa, on December 17, 2016, featuring a program of five dance classes with teachers from Senegal, Congo, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Brazil and an evening performance of SambaDá with very special guests. This beautiful event is offered to the community as a fundraiser for both non-profit organizations. The 418 Project has been creating a space for global dance traditions and other arts in Santa Cruz for more than 30 years. Da African Village promotes cultural understanding between Africa and the world through music, dance and cultural exchange, as well as supporting educational programs and artists in the U.S. and in Senegal. Please join us for this very special Day of Africa.
Make sure you check Afro-Brazilian Samba-Funk-Dance group SambaDá’s last performance in Santa Cruz.
CLICK ON THIS LINK TO PURCHASE TIX: https://www.artful.ly/da-african-village/store/events/10339
HERE IS THE CLASS SCHEDULE:
If you’re interested in becoming a vendor, please download the vendor application, fill out and send to the address enclosed with check/money order:
Artwork of Intimacy: Bhakti West Festival 2016
Embrace transformation, for it is, always have been and always will remain the only constant in existence. Veritable juxtapositions of workshops, sessions, yoginis and art at Bhakti West Festival in Joshua Tree junctures liberated elements in life…fire, air, earth, water combined with an ethereal zephyr! Such a gust of unifying wisdom and creation reclaiming vibrancy using rituals, sacred chants, meditation, psychology, kirtans, deep yoga(s), health and plant/teacher remedies. Innumerable leaders of service getting up close and personal in ancient culture like Swami Premodaya (founder of I-CODA International Centers of Divine Awakening), Shine Rilling (Peace Sticks), Guy Douglas (master Sound Healing Practitioner/Gongmaster) and Michael Brian Baker (The Breathwork Center) tunes up the collective light of festival guests. In Swami’s words “Life is a Free Fall!” Bhakti offers freefalls to fly; a breathtaking festival toward peace & a life of more meaning. Every act and shift of energy promotes new adventure; zapping energy from exhausted to unstoppable charges to move one through the remainder of the year.
Aminah Tolbert is a reporter/photographer for Wolof Times.
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Fitness is 80% Nutrition and 20% Exercise! If you’re interested in losing weight, check: https://woloftimes.wordpress.com/herbalife-fitness-nutrition
8th Annual Bhakti Fest Gathers Thousands of All Ages for a Transformational Event!
New Highlights Include a Sound-bath Dome, Sacred Women’s Tent, Men’s Lodge, and Expanded Family Village, along with Top Kirtan Stars, Sacred Music, Meaningful Workshops and Premiere Yoga Teachers, September 7-12 in Joshua Tree, CA
Tickets for Bhakti Fest West 2016 are available at west.bhaktifest.com. Bhakti Fest is a nonprofit 501c3 organization and accepts tax-deductible donations. The festival donates a percentage of its funds to charities and other nonprofit groups that provide food, education, and environmental beautification programs around the world. These include Food for Life Vrindavan, Love Serve Remember Foundation, Ramana’s Garden, Seva Foundation, Share Your Care, and Woman’s Earth Alliance
Joshua Tree, CA – July 7, 2015 – Bhakti Fest, the preeminent sacred music and yoga festival dedicated to bringing spiritual consciousness and earthly freedom to both the attendees, and the global recipients of this nonprofit festival’s charitable endeavors, will be returning to the Joshua Tree Retreat Center September 7-12.
A beloved annual event on the calendars of spiritual seekers, yogis, families, girlfriend squads, and others looking for an end of summer festival to commune with nature, each other and the divine, Bhakti Fest has expanded their offering beyond the top yoga teachers, Kirtan artists and workshop leaders, to include features such as a Family Village for parent and me yoga, kids music and more, as well as a Sound-bath Dome and Sound Healings under the stars, the latest trend in musical meditation. In addition to its always enlightening workshop program Bhakti Fest also hosts a Sacred Women’s Tent and a Men’s Lodge offering gender specific programming covering topics such as Tantra, empowerment, and redefining masculinity.
Known internationally for hosting a massive lineup of Kirtan musicians, master yoga instructors, and spiritual teachers, Bhakti Fest draws thousands of conscious explorers from the U.S. and around the world. Kirtan and reggae influenced singer/songwriter Trevor Hall, known for his hits “Brand New Day,” “The Lime Tree,” “Unity,” and others will headline the event. Other returning headliners include Grammy nominee Krishna Das; Jai Uttal, with his high energy reggae and ska-influenced Kirtan set; revolutionary hip-hop artist MC YOGI; and long-time Madonna collaborator Donna De Lory.
Bhakti Fest offers nonstop conscious music and Kirtan/chanting on two stages, in a wide of variety of musical genres including blues, rock, pop, gospel, traditional, and hip-hop. This year’s musicians also include the Kirtaniyas, Dave Stringer, Sean Johnson & the Wild Lotus Band, Saul David Raye, David Newman, Govind Das & Radha, Gina Sala, Girish, Brenda McMorrow, Gandharvas Kirtan, Larisa Stow & Shakti Tribe, Sri Kirtan, Fannah Fi Allah, Shantala and Pranja Vieira.
Several thousand participants will share sacred space with the world’s finest teachers of spiritual knowledge, yoga, and breath-work. The festival will feature twelve hours of daily yoga classes in four venues, facilitated by incomparable teachers: Shiva Rea, Saul David Raye, Mark Whitwell, Kia Miller, Jennica Mills, Laura Plumb, Erica Burkhalter, Jaya Lakshmi & Ananda, Hemalayaa Behl, Mas Vidal, Janet Stone, and Kristin Olson, to name only a few. All levels of students are welcome—beginner and advanced yogis alike are encouraged to join! There is something for everyone.
The Bhakti Fest workshops aim to enlighten all attendees with talks by as Radhanath Swami, a philanthropist and author of The Journey Home, who presents on his incredible spiritual journey; breath-work phenomenon, Michael Brian Baker whose students say his class “provides a life changing experience;” Manoj Chalam, a Murti scholar who uses humor and personal anecdotes in his lectures and workshops to illuminate Hindu mythology; and many more.
Presenters in the Sacred Women’s Tent include Dawn Cartwright, a Tantric visionary, sacred writer, world traveler, and innovator in bio-energetic Tantra fusion; Monika Nataraj, the creatrix of the 200-hour Mystical Dance® and Shakti Spirit® women’s teacher trainings in Thailand who also co-leads the Mystical Yogini women’s teacher training in India; Joanne Ameya Cohen a Certified Women’s Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist, Plant Spirit Medicine Practitioner, Feminine Embodiment Mentor, Counselor, and Shamanic Practitioner, who is passionate about helping women to let go of past pains and hurts in order to reclaim their Wild Feminine; among others.
In the Men’s Lodge Zat Baraka will help men to step out of the confines of their societal conditionings and into the new masculine way of being; other men’s lodge speakers will be announced. As always the annual festival will deliver an exclusive interview with Bhakti Fest elder, and spiritual icon, Ram Dass, whose book Be Here Now helped bring Eastern philosophy to the West in the 1960s.
Bhakti Fest also offers a healing sanctuary with massage, bodywork, energy work, and other wellness enhancing modalities. In addition, Bhaktis will feast on a variety of raw, vegan, and vegetarian food and beverage options. There is an extensive marketplace with eco-friendly, sustainable vendors who offer yoga gear, clothing, devotional art, musical instruments, CDs, crafts, jewelry and more. Bhakti Fest’s own Bhakti Shoppe will feature highly sought-after items from the bazaars of India.
Bhakti Fest is a vegetarian, family friendly, safe environment, free of alcohol and drugs. Children 12 and under are allowed in for free and there is a specific Bhakti Family Village where children can take part in music, yoga and enlightened play.
The Joshua Tree Retreat Center offers the perfect setting for inner reflection and spiritual reconnection, with its natural high desert beauty. Accommodations onsite include new private apartments, beds in the men’s and women’s dorms, glamping, camping, and RV parking. There are also several hotels within a few miles of the retreat center that offer discounts for attendees. Info on lodging is available at http://west.bhaktifest.com/lodging/.
With a world-class lineup of musicians and yoga instructors, more than 60 conscious workshops, and 100 artisan vendors, Bhakti Fest offers the most heart-opening, consciousness-raising experience of any festival on the scene today. Attendees describe the festival as “being immersed in the greatest conscious party you have ever experienced, filled with music, yoga, dancing, love, light, and heart centered community.”
About Bhakti Fest
Bhakti Fest is a festival series which celebrates the devotional path that has its roots in yoga, Kirtan, and meditation. It embraces ancient and modern sacred wisdom and traditional and non-traditional spiritual practices. All the artists, presenters, and vendors embody, practice, and share the spirit of Bhakti through a variety of ways, including continuous Kirtan, yoga classes, meditations and prayer, teachings and workshops, fire ceremonies, an eco-friendly, holistic marketplace, vegetarian, vegan, and raw cuisine, a wellness sanctuary including massage, bodywork, energy work, intuitive readings, and other unique life enhancing modalities. Bhakti Fest encourages the spirit of service and offers a work exchange program. The festival donates monies to a variety of non-profit organizations which provide food, education, and environmental beautification programs around the world.
Bhakti Fest would not be possible without the support of these generous sponsors; I-CODA, Organic India, Health Ade Kombucha, Desert Essence, Coconut Bliss, Divinitree Yoga & Art Studio, Shakti Juice and White Swan Records.
“A Touch of Africa in Santa Cruz”, founded by Senegalese Mara Diakhate, took place in this historic beach town which has an affinity for cultural events. The event was organized by Da African Village Team in Santa Cruz which is comprised of Mara Diakhate, Dandha Da Hora, Anne Stafford, Veronica Howard Soto, Melanie Lee Godinho, Shaunte Jackson, Daffany, Abide Bebe, Laura Gilbert-Costa and Katrina Jeffries, to name a few. The Dance conference featured West African dancers and drummers representing their own or various ethnic backgrounds from Senegal, Mali, Guinea and Congo: Renowned Master Dancers such as Alassane Kane, Idy Ciss, Aziz Faye, Oumou Faye (Senegal), Djeneba Sakho, Ousseynou Kouyate (Mali), Marietou Camara (Guinea) and Vivien Bassouamina featuring Drum Ensemble Loubayi (Congo). Brazilian Samba Master Dancer Nilhina Fonseca also flew in from Bahia. And of course, all of the dance classes taught were accompanied by Master drummers from the regions previously mentioned: Ibou Ngon, Mbor Faye, Thiane Sene (Senegal) and Marcos Rodrigues (Brazil) to name a few. These drummers also offered drum classes in their respective disciplines, mainly djembe and congas. Attendance was high as various participants from the Bay area and Santa Cruz attended and there were also dance students from as far as New Orleans.
Saturday and Sunday respectively ended with performances from local Brazilian band Sambada and Oakland-based West African group Diamano Coura. West African food with vegetarian options was made available to all attendees and there was also African clothing for sale which was showcased on Saturday’s fashion show. A few attendees were able to win airlines tickets to Africa through Ethiopian Airlines who were event donors.
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Angelique Kidjo performed differently this time around in Los Angeles, in
the more intimate setting of the Luckman Theater which was at
full-capacity. This concert was acoustic as she only utilized a guitar
player, and local drum phenomenon Magatte Sow (Djembe, Sabar & Congas) who
always tours with her when needed. Angelique Kidjo was mostly interacting
with the audience, speaking about her childhood in Benin, musical
influences and humanitarian work (UNICEF, Amnesty International etc…).
She also discussed her humble beginnings as an expatriate musician in
Europe where she was discovered by world renowned music mogul Chris
Blackwell of Island Records, prior to moving to America and becoming a US
citizen. The beloved singer displayed her high octave voice range and sang
in three different languages including her native Fon, English and French,
much to the delight of the diverse crowd. She sang her first childhood song
and own classics, as well as others by musicians that influenced her,
including James Brown, Jimi Hendrix and Celia Cruz. This concert was a
success and gave us a glimpse of who Angelique Kidjo is as a human being.
Thank you Nnamdi Moweta of Radio Afrodicia (KPFK, 90.7FM) for sharing this picture.
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TOPANGA DAYS / Country Fair
The Topanga Days Country Fair is a not for profit fundraiser sponsored by the Topanga Community Club (TCC)
(310) 455-1980
info@topangacommunityclub.com
http://www.TopangaCommunityClub.com
http://www.Facebook.com/TopangaDays
For more band information, including background lowdown for both Topanga Days stages, visit Facebook Group Page: http://www.facebook.com/groups/TopangaDaysCountryFaire/
Photo courtesy of Sandra Goodin Photography, featuring Aminah Tolbert of Wolof Times and Carmen Curtis, founder of AIREAL Yoga and also former NCAA gymnastics champion (UCLA).
Ever felt anything more potent than a woman’s touch? 2016 SHAKTI West
Festival in Joshua Tree celebrated affinity, totality, rebirth, cosmos
and reverence touch of the Divine Feminine. Being in the bhav inhabits
the human body as a sacred vessel, enthralling curio paths to
self-love. Workshops, practices, restorative sessions at Shakti
collaborated cutting-edge artists, chants from the heart, or kirtan,
soul-centered yoga, caverns of souls unleashing passion for the
eclectic similes of Shakti. Each appearing artist or teacher offered
sensational journeys into their intimate world of stories. To capture
a few, Tantra Workshop leader Dawn Cartwright advocates “we are the
ecstasy we’ve been longing for all our lives.” AIReal Yoga founder,
Carmen Curtis honored “excellent way to grow yoga practice while
feeling safe.” This modality of yoga knows no bounds, surrendering
body in movements and trusting support of the flow. Both these leaders
as well as all the Shakti artists reminded patrons Divine Feminine
quite inebriating, safely empyreal about opening spirits and
transcending limitations. Soul-centered yoga, chanting, mantra, music,
meditation, hot-soaking, sound baths, tantra and/or ecstatic sunset
dance concluded in lightning rods of contention! Shakti is the growth
edge that amenably welcomes insights, divine feminine and support
endless possibilities simultaneously relaxing and broadening horizons.
Feed your soul, meet other avid yogis or Shakti supporters…and perhaps grab a soul signature of your favorite lineup. Return home with
ultimate inspirations, fresh voices, and new lenses to carry one
through to BHAKTI.
Aminah Tolbert is a Worldwide reporter and photographer for Wolof Times.
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“A Touch of Africa in Anaheim” with Da’ African Village – FREE
April 30 – May 29
The mission of Da’ African Village is to foster the cultural exchange between Africa and the world, as well as develop sustainable communities by way of commerce, community involvement, musical performances and education. Founder Serigne “Mara” Diakhate is a native of Dakar, Senegal. Educating others by equipping them with the knowledge of the history, culture and language of West Africa is a part of his life’s work.
FREE PROGRAMMING – JOIN US!
Sat April 30 – 3-4:30pm – “A Touch of Africa in Anaheim” Opening Reception
Sat May 7 – 11am-12pm – Traditional Senegalese Drum & Dance Documentary and Q&A
Sun May 8 – 3-4:30pm – Hip Hop in Senegal Demonstration by Isabelle Barros
Sat May 14 – 6-10pm – ACE (Art Crawl Experience) Drum Circle in Carnegie Courtyard
Sat May 21 – 3-4:30pm – “Mama Africa and A Trip to Senegal” Presentation
Sun May 29 – 1-3pm – Exhibition Closing Celebration
VENUE:
MUZEO (Museum and Cultural Center)
241 S. Anaheim Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92805
714-956-8936
info@muzeo.org
Wolof Times was in attendance of the event on May 8th where Senegalese-born Jordan Diandy (Ex-Vanguard University Basketball player) delivered a great presentation pertaining to Hip Hop in Senegal.
Hip Hop culture has spread throughout the globe since its creation in 1979. This art of oral expression is very similar to TAASU which is the medium that Senegalese Griots use to relate the history of a family or a village over beats. TAASU is mainly Rap over the traditional Senegalese drum called the Sabar. The Griots perform at cultural events such as weddings or birth celebrations to name a few. Therefore, the Senegalese youth of today relate strongly to this music genre and use it to express various ideas which range from social to political issues but also just Party & Dance. There are at least 5000 Hip Hop groups in Senegal including the most popular Daara J (Reggae & Hip Hop) and solo rappers NIX the equivalent of a conscious Lil’ Wayne and Gunman Xuman with his innovative Rap news broadcast on YouTube. In France, Senegal’s colonial state, we cannot forget to mention French Senegalese rapper Booba who’s by far the most successful French language rapper in the world and has collaborated with the likes of Diddy, T-Pain, 2 Chainz and music producer Ryan Leslie. And of course, US-bred Senegalese born Akon who’s topped American and World Hip Hop & Pop charts both as a singer and as a producer, has put Senegal on the map. He’s also responsible for providing electricity to 600 million African homes through his “Lightning project”.
The event also features an art exposition that encompasses various West African countries including Senegal and Mali. Art and clothing can also be purchased at the venue.
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Please come out and support MAY 11th Flappers Comedy-Club Burbank Yoohoo Room @7:30pm. ALL FEMALE line-up featuring Tiffany Haddish, from The Carmichael Show, Amberia Sargent from Punk’d, Kennelia Stradwick & Jeanne Whitney.
Pls purchase online!! * $5 Tickets: http://bit.ly/1VAfael
Make sure you check this three-day event which features concerts and celebrity basketball games at the Staples Center. You make get more info and purchase tickets here: http://www.bet.com/bet-experience/2016/tickets/vip.html
The Vegan Fair street festival is a great event for local Noho residents
interested in trying various cuisines from various Los Angeles vegan restaurants.
There was a great turnout this year considering the long waiting lines in
front of every kiosk as well as the variety of vegan dishes provided from
Mexican, to Indian to American restaurants to name a few. You may get more info here: http://www.veganstreetfair.com
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BABY F DADA CUSTOM CLOTHING: http://www.babyfdada.com
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The Leimert Park Art Walk is an invigorating event for the
local African-American community as it offers a platform for local artists,
musicians, dancers and comedians to practice their craft in front of
attendees from diverse areas of Los Angeles. This event takes place the last Sunday of every Monday and also features Art, food and clothing vendors.
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California’s Premier Summer Campout Festival featuring music, art, yoga, and education. LIB 2016 is a transformational festival in the Central Coast region of California presented by The Do LaB. The Do LaB seeks to promote sustainability, social cohesion, personal health, and creative expression.
Location: Bradley, CA
Dates: May 25 – May 30, 2016
Genres: Electronic dance music, Devotional song, Experimental music, Folk music.
You may purchase tickets or obtain more info here: http://www.lightninginabottle.org
“A Touch of Africa in Santa Cruz“, an event which will take place June 2-5, 2016, featuring world-class artists from Africa and the Diaspora representing their cultures through dance, drumming and music performance. The event will offer workshops, performances, food, an African fashion show, arts & crafts, educational lectures and panel discussions. There will also be musical and dance performances by Sambada and Diamono Coura respectively on Saturday June 4th & Sunday June 5th. Please visit regularly for updates and information regarding this exciting event. Please also like and share this page on facebook with your friends and family as this is a community event and all are welcome! More to come!!!!
You may click on this link to purchase tickets for the classes and/or performances:
You may get more info here: http://www.daafricanvillage.org/index.php/events-2/
VENDORS:
If you’re interested in vending at “A Touch of Africa in Santa Cruz”, please download and print the following application in order to apply: 2016VendorApplicationATouchofAfricainSantaCruz(1)
The 24th Pan African Film Festival as usual boasted an interesting variety
of movies and documentaries from Africa and the Diaspora, mainstream as
well as independent. This festival is crucial in giving filmmakers and
actors from Africa and the Diaspora international exposure, especially
since it’s based in Los Angeles. The films featured annually play a key
role in informing the local masses about African History, cultures as well
as derived cultures in the Diaspora. The Black Experience is at the
forefront of the festival to keep the attendees informed about political
and social issues that affect Black Folks worldwide, so as to further
create or strengthen the bond between Africa and its diaspora. Through
documentaries such as “A Ferguson story” and “They don’t a give a damn”
which touch upon on the current state of racial relations and segregated
housing in America. As well as “Queen Nanny” which relates the story of the
powerful Jamaican national figure who helped keep her people free by
eluding and defeating the British Army in the treacherous mountains of
Jamaica. Other key movies such as “The Violin teacher” relate the
experience of a Black violin teacher, who in his own struggle of achieving
his musical dreams of being part of the Brazilian National orchestra,
helps impoverished children in the Favelas cope, strive and succeed through
learning music; Ayanda from South Africa showcases a talented cast of
actors and relates the struggle of a young girl striving to keep her
deceased father’s mechanic shop running, amidst corruption, heartbreaks and
deceit.
The Pan African Film festival also featured African Art, clothing and craft
through local and international vendors who occupied the nearby Baldwin
Hills Crenshaw Plaza mall section. These vendors were able to showcase
their art via the fashion show which was accompanied by traditional African
drumming. The drumming by local artist Kwesi Williams provided a more authentic ambiance to the event.
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Make sure you attend the 23rd Pan African Film Festival during February 4th-15th at Balwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza in Los Angeles (CA). The film festival will showcase a variety of films and documentaries from Africa & its Diaspora. You can obtain more info here: http://www.paff.org
Enter a Divine Land
There was a time when the world was full of magic and splendor, as if all on Earth existed in harmony with Heaven. You could see it in the arts, feel it in the air, and hear it in the beat of a drum. This was a land of heroes and sages, dragons and phoenixes, emperors and immortals. Known today as China, this place was once called “the Middle Kingdom” and “the Land of the Divine.”
What if you could journey back and visit this lost world…?
Now you can. Shen Yun invites you to experience this divine culture of the Middle Kingdom. Shen Yun brings the profound spirit of this lost civilization to life on stage with unrivaled artistic mastery. Every dance movement, every musical note, makes this a stunning visual and emotional experience you won’t find anywhere else.
See for yourself why this performance is leaving millions around the world in awe.
You may obtain more info or purchase tickets here: http://www.shenyunperformingarts.org/atlanta
Veda Mela was a replica of the Bhakti fest in the Joshua Tree Desert, on a much smaller scale and more interestingly in the urban setting of Downtown Los Angeles. The festival featured Yoga workshops and sessions as well as various vendors of organic food and goods. The cozy atmosphere on the first floors of a semi-high rise building was further enhanced by a DJ who spun techno music and by the World music bands that performed. The festival was rather small but is definitely appealing to young and hip Yoga adepts as well as organic food and goods enthusiasts in the city.
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7PM at the Chinese Grauman Theatre: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
You may obtain free tickets to this screening here: http://www.afi.com/afifest/freetickets.aspx
Ousmane Sembène is a crucial name in the history of cinema. The first indigenous director to make films in sub–Saharan Africa, beginning in the 1960s, he is known — deservedly — as the Father of African Cinema, and yet his work is not as well known stateside as that of film pioneers from other parts of the globe. This intimate, insightful and often surprising documentary seeks to correct that. Sembène’s life story is told in admiring yet clear–eyed detail, highlighting his remarkable resourcefulness in the face of a nonexistent local film industry in his native Senegal. In Sembène’s 38–year career, he successfully made nine films, a staggeringly impressive feat given the incendiary, politically charged subjects he took on (as seen in his best–known film, 1966’s BLACK GIRL, following a Senegalese maid’s dehumanizing experience working as a maid on the glitzy French Riviera). With SEMBENE!, AFI audiences can get to know one of world cinema’s most remarkable and fascinating artists. — Beth Hanna
Taste of Soul LA 2015 is one of the most anticipated events of the city as 300,000 plus residents flood the Baldwin-Hills Crenshaw area to taste American Soul food as well as various foods from the Carribean, South America and Africa. There are numerous radio-sponsored musical stages where renowned R&B Singers & groups such as Joe Thomas, Monica, Angie Stone, Mint Condition and Gospel singer Deitrick Haddon perform. You will also encounter craft vendors as well as different companies advertising their products and services.
International celebrities from the area such as 90s female rap star Yo-Yo often come to support their community. Wolof Times staff including myself, Sunny Moore and Batani Khalfani were of course in attendance to enjoy the different festivities.
Joe Thomas headlined the festival and was the last act to perform to the delight of the numerous females fans enthralled by his smooth voice and sex-appeal.
Angie Thomas graced the audience with her soulful voice and inspiring conscious message backed by an array of sultry background singers.
Mint Condition displayed their range as vocalists and musicians to the 90s nostalgics.
Gospel singer Deitrick Haddon came in full-force with his massive choir backing him.
The iconic Lula Washington Dance Theatre is located on Crenshaw Boulevard and took advantage of the event to showcase its dance talents which performed R&B, Ballet, Cuban and African dance routines for the event goers.
The event had significant success and is a much needed financial boost to the local economy.
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The 4th Annual Dance & Drum Festival, organized by African Dance professor Jewel Jackson “Sista Jewel” also Director of African Soul International, is becoming increasingly popular with yearly attendees from California, Utah, New-York, Ohio etc…The festival took place at Cal Poly Pomona and featured master dance teachers from West Africa (Guinea, Senegal) and the Diaspora (USA, Cuba) including Youssouf Koumbassa, Mareme Faye, Jeffrey Page, Djeneba Sako, Mouminatou Camara, Babacar N’Diaye, Assane Konte and Djian Tie, with specialties in Guinean, Senegalese and Cuban dances.
The dance classes were all accompanied by professional Djembe, Sabar and Conga players. There were professional as well as amateur dancers taking 1h30-2h long classes, three to four times a day. Some of these dancers also took part in Saturday night’s main event on stage which showcased dancing combined with acting, similarly to African Ballet or Broadway Theater.
At the end of the main event, Sista Jewel took the time to thank African Dance pioneers within the community and nationwide for their contributions dating as far back as the 60s. Special recognitions were given to Nzingha Camara, Ndella Davis-Diassy, Mareme Faye, Mami Aleke and Assane Konte to name a few.
The festival was a success and really emphasized a sense of community, education and respect for the elders and ancestors.
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