Afro Rhythm Movement and S.A.S.A. Fusion
with Byb Chanel Bibene and Afia Thompson
Friday, November 3
12:00-2:00pm
Class Fee: $20.00
Afro Rhythm Movement introduces Ethnic dance forms from central Africa through a contemporary lens. This class will explore movements inspired by the traditional dances and the way these dances are a springboard to the contemporary dance grounded in ethnic dance aesthetic from the Congo.
Smooth. Active. Strengthening. African. Fusion (S.A.S.A). S.A.S.A Fusion blends Contemporary, Hip hop, African, Kuduro, Reggaeton, House and Freestyle movements together. This class is designed to actively work your body towards a healthier you.
Byb and Afia's teaching styles are warm, friendly and filled with humor. Whenever you are new to African Ethnic or contemporary dance forms or have years of dance experience, you are welcome and sure to find your place in this class.
Byb Chanel Bibene is a dance instructor, researcher, choreographer and performer working in theater and contemporary dance. His own technical and aesthetic sensibility is rooted in the culture and dances of his country of origin, the Republic of Congo. He has toured the world and performed internationally with companies and choreographers originating from Africa, England, France and the USA. Artistic Director of Kiandanda Dance Theater, Bibene initiated Mbongui Square festival, a multidisciplinary arts festival that gathers dance, music, spoken word and visual artists from the Bay Area and across the world. Outside of his professional careers of Theater and Dance, Bibene has a passion for writing. He is the author of numerous poetry and shorts. Bibene owns a Bachelor in Science, Economics/Finances from Marien Ngouabi University/Brazzaville, an MFA in Dance and a certificate in Dance Production Management from Saint Mary's College of California. For more info, visit www.kiandanda-dance.com.
Afia Thompson has been performing professionally since the age of 11 years old. Her dance roots began in the West African traditions. Over the past 20 years, Afia has performed nationally and internationally in other genres such as jazz, hip-hop, lindy hop, freestyle, and modern dance She is constantly refining her skills and versatility as a performer through yearly conferences, workshops, and performances. She continues to teach classes in the Oakland, CA community. Ms.Thompson is a performer whose skills continue to stretch beyond the dance arena.