West African dance class --- every Monday in Austin! Whether you're brand new or a seasoned mover, this class welcomes you. Come dance, train, and dive deep into culture. Presented by Lannaya Drum & Dance. What to expect Learn iconic Guinean dance basics, movement vocabulary, short dances, and a few accompanying call-and-response songs — all taught to live drumming, with musical breaks that guide each change in movement. ~Focus: Guinean traditional dance. All levels welcome. ~Flow: We start class with a warm-up, break down the steps, then dance. ~Pace: Class moves at a fast pace and is taught to live drums. ~The space: Class offered weekly at a professional dance studio with A/C. ~Bring your water bottle to stay hydrated during class ~Class dances barefoot. Suggested Attire Wear something comfortable to move in, such as a lappa (an African skirt), sarong, loose pants and t-shirt, or dance, yoga, or workout wear. Bare feet are recommended. The Artists Mami Sayon Camara, Lanaya's dance director, leads the class — an Austin-based Guinean national rooted deep in the Baga family lineage she carries from Conakry. Mohamed Sylla, also from Conakry, leads the drumming. Drummers are also welcome to drop in with their own drum. Your support matters. Every time you show up, you directly support working West African artists sharing their culture and expertise with Austin. This is how living tradition grows — one Monday, one session, one community at a time. This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department.
