DanceAfrica 2024

This year, the festival’s anchor performance, under the artistic vision of Abdel R. Salaam, welcomes the illustrious Cameroonian dance company Cie La Calebasse, founded by acclaimed choreographer and dancer Merlin Nyakam. Renowned for captivating performances that blend traditional African dance with contemporary flair, Cie La Calebasse presents an array of traditional Cameroonian dances and music. The program, titled Cameroon: The Origin of Communities/A Calabash of Cultures, also fosters a unique collaboration with the DanceAfrica Spirit Walkers and The Billie’s Youth Arts Academy Dance Ensemble, joined by Women Of The Calabash, an ensemble known for its mesmerizing polyphonic sound. The artistic vision is brought to life with costume designs by Wunmi Olaiya, lighting design by Al Crawford, set design by Jasiri Kafele, and music and sound design by David Margolin Lawson, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the depth of Cameroonian culture.