An African and Caribbean Music & Dance Adventure.
About the show
Led by master drummers from West Africa and accompanied by high energy dancers, this performance explores the origins of West African music and dance styles, tracing its journey from the African Continent across the Atlantic to the Caribbean and influencing carnival celebrations in the UK today.
The first segment delves into the roots of West African music, showcasing the powerful beats of the djembe drum. As the performance progresses, the narrative shifts to depict the movement of these musical styles showcasing African People’s Dance. The interactive call and response elements keep the young audience engaged and excited.
Key Stage / Year Groups:
KS1, KS2 and SEND
Relevant areas of the National Curriculum:
- Music
- Physical Education
- PSHE
Watch the video:
About the pupil workshops
The supporting workshop includes an opportunity to learn to play the djembe drum and experience the interaction between the drum and the dance. For the first part of the workshop children learn basic drumming patterns on djembe drums and practice call and response with drums.
The second part of the workshop involves step-by-step teaching by experienced dance teachers of African People’s Dance accompanied by live drumming. At the end there is an opportunity for solo performances within the group to round off the workshop in an atmosphere of carnival celebration with drumming and Soca music.
Teacher twilight CPD
The CPD will provide teachers with a concise, engaging introduction to West African music and dance as well as influences on dance styles in the Caribbean and UK, equipping them with practical skills and ideas to integrate into their teaching. The session will include:
• Interactive exercise: call and response with drummer and participants using body percussion and voice.
• Delivery of West African Dance and Soca: dance styles by experienced Dance Teacher Alison Ray with a step-by-step teaching of basic dance movements.
This CPD can accommodate the whole staff team.
About Mbilla Arts
Mbilla Arts promotes the music and dance forms of Africa and the diaspora through performance and education programmes. Our experienced artists provide extensive expertise in arts education and performance.
