Street Party Africa

4.0 credits

Across West Africa, street parties are an essential part of urban culture featuring music, dance, and fashion. This class explores the phenomenon of these street parties, or “Dundunba”, as well as the dance styles, music, and fashions associated with them. Students will learn the iconic dance styles Dundunba, Sabar, Sidi Yankadi and more. They will learn technique to add style through gestures such as the fast-paced dance steps known as "échauffement." They will discuss the gender dimensions of street parties and the types of dance steps, clothing, and public presentation unique to men and women respectively. Videos and short readings will complement our experience on the dance floor.