John Dodge

John Dodge has 15 years of African drumming and dancing experience. He is a founding member of the Djoniba Dance and Drum Centre in NYC and the manager of the Mikerline Haitian Dance Troupe. Dancing and drumming is a family endeavor for John and he will be joined by his son Dakota in teaching the class. He has taught spiritual awakening and drumming at festivals around the country.

West African Drumming

You will learn the parts to one West African drum rhythm on Djembe and Dun Dun. The approach in this workshop is unique as its goal is to give the participants a feel for how the drums relate to and inspire the dancers. We will explore how the rhythm of the drum affects our bodies and awakens voices in us. We will then play for the dancers in Zen Marie Holmes’ West African dance class.