KanKouran West African Dance Company preserves and promotes traditional West African culture by providing quality entertainment and educational programs to local and national audiences in an effort to facilitate cross-cultural enrichment.
KanKouran was founded in 1983 for the purpose of contributing to the extension of the arts by introducing the essence of traditional African dance 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.
KanKouran was founded in 1983 for the purpose of contributing to the extension of the arts by introducing the essence of traditional African dance 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.
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KanKouran's mission is to preserve and promote traditional West African culture by providing quality entertainment and educational programs to local and national audiences in an effort to facilitate cross-cultural enrichment. KanKouran's immediate future is devoted to the establishment of an African Cultural Center.
KanKouran 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. After many months of recruiting, training and performing at local venues, the Company presented its first full-length concert, "A Visit to Africa" in 1985.
On behalf of Assane Konte, and the entire KanKouran family, we want to thank each and every one of you who joined us this year for our 38th Annual Conference. We appreciate your cooperation and patience with us in our efforts to create, and maintain, a safe environment for us to be together again on the dance floor.
KanKouran West African Dance Company was established as an instructional institution designed to preserve the traditional cultural arts of the Senegambia Region. The "Visit Africa" program dazzles audiences with its exciting and electrifying dances and rhythms that reflect various cultural traditions that relate to the history and culture of West Africa.
Reviews (1)
Leia P.
May 17, 2018
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Where do I start? KanKouran is legendary in its own right as a world renowned dance company for over 25 years. Founder & master teacher Assane is well respected in the dance community, providing a platform for the best dance conference and West African dance classes in the DMV area, bar none. Great environment in which to connect and get energized with some of the best drummers and instructors around. Beg African, Sabar, & other styles offered. All levels, all welcome. Highly recommend. Located at Dance Exchange in Takoma MD
