Les Ballets Africains
Les Ballets Africains is the national dance company of Guinea[1] and is based in Conakry.
Although the name might suggest the idea of European "ballet" to English speakers, the focus of the company is actually to promote traditional African dance and culture.[2]
History
Founded in Paris in 1952 by Guinean choreographer Fodéba Keïta, Les Ballets Africains toured successfully for the next eight years.[3]
After Guinea was granted its independence from France in 1958, Sekou Toure made the ballet the National Ensemble in 1960.[4]
The group performed in the United States for the first time in 1959, with a run of 48 performances on Broadway, following a successful European tour.[5]
Notable past members
- Famoudou Konate
- Kemoko Sano
- Moustapha Bangoura
- Mouminatou Camara
- Aly Diabate
- Abou Sylla (N'Camara Abou Sylla)
- Arafan Toure
References
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External links
- Official website
- New York Times review by Jennifer Dunning, March 20, 2006
- New York Daily News review by Mary Talbot, April 12, 1996
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