Mande Productions provides
different ways for you and your community to learn Mande dance, drumming and culture in a dynamic and meaningful way.
1. Traditional West African Dance Instruction
Our West African dance workshops teach the dances of Mali, Guinea and Ivory Coast to live drummers playing the djembe and djun-djun drums. Students are introduced to the social, psychological, and physical healing of traditional West African dance. Past workshops have been provided in Arts at the Armory, Endicott College, and Cambridge Public Schools.
West African dance classes are also available through drop-in classes at the Dance Complex and a non-credit semester course at the Office for the Arts at Harvard.
“Rhythm, music and dance represent social life in every culture. I approach West African dance holistically, demonstrating technical movement and the meaning and significance behind the movement.”
— Joh Camara
2. Traditional West African Drumming Workshops
Our workshops teach the drumming traditions of Mali, Guinea, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. Students will learn rhythmic patterns and the musical tones of the djembe and dundun drums. Each class will include a drum warm up, history about the rhythm, the song associated with each rhythm, a breakdown of head and stick coordination, and a high-energy practice.
3. Mande Cultural Immersion Tour
Mande Productions provides a unique opportunity to explore and learn the traditional culture, music, dance, and language of the historic Mande region in Mali. Activities include classes taught by master drummers and dancers, observation of traditional ceremonies, visits to historic villages, and participation in festivals and parties. Trip packages include accommodations and a flexible meal plan.