African dance assemblies Cape Cod

Trip to Guinea, West Africa
Join Mohamed Kalifa Kamara on a journey into the magic of the music and culture of Guinea, West Africa. The trip includes a 2-week stay on the tropical island of Room, with plush sandy beaches and traditional village life. Home to about 200 people, you will be welcomed into this Susu fishing village and participate in its community. Guest residences at the scenic village, Fore Fote, are located right near the ocean. Fore Fote proudly features a great musical nightlife and local celebrations. Delicious and carefully prepared African cuisine will be served daily.

Program
During the week, master teachers will lead classes in traditional African drum and dance. Beginners and advanced students alike will experience the joy of the rhythms of West Africa, while surrounded by its beauty. Weekend trips to the city of Conakry will highlight marketplace shopping and exciting nightlife. Other off-island excursions will include a visit to Mohamed's home village of Gaoual, hiking the mountain of Fouta, and basking under the luxurious waterfalls in Kindia.

About Mohamed Kamara
Mohamed was born in a village in Guinea, West Africa into the Kamara family, which is known for its traditional African drumming and dancing. He began his career in the Gambia where he started his own dancing and drumming group. He is the former artistic director of the African Ballet of Gambia. Mohamed has traveled extensively through Africa, Europe, and the United States performing and teaching his art. Mohamed served as lead teacher for Chuck Davis's cultural art safari, which is held every summer in the Gambia. Students interested in learning African drum and dance attend from all over the United States and Europe. Mohamed continues to teach dancing and drumming all over New England in school systems and at various universities. He is an Assistant Professor at Berklee College of Music. Mohamed also performs with his groups, The Spirit of Africa and Koliba, for festivals, jazz clubs, schools, concert halls, museums and cultural events. From his dedication to his art and teaching for over 25 years, Mohamed was awarded The Commonwealth Award by Governor Weld for fostering cultural education in Massachusetts . Visit his website at www.africandrum.com