Dancers, drummers from around the world headed to Flint for Kuungana Drum and Dance Conference

FLINT, Michigan—Master dancers and drummers from around the world are gathering in Flint for the Kuungana 2019 Drum and Dance Conference — which includes a series of workshops for all ages as well as a performance at the University of Michigan-Flint.

The three-day event features the Kankouran West African Dance Company based out of Maryland, which aims to preserve and promote traditional West African culture through education and entertainment.

Community members can participate in The Maisha (Life) Urithi (Legacy) dance and drum workshops Friday, Nov. 8 through Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, at the historic Masonic Temple, 755 S. Saginaw St., in downtown Flint. The classes are open to anyone age 2 and up. The cost is $8 for children 6 and under and $15 for adults. Group pricing is available. 

The highlight of the weekend is the Kuungana concert at 8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 9 at the University of Michigan-Flint Theatre. Tickets are $15 for children 12 and under and $25 for adults. 

The event is sponsored by the Ruth Mott Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, Greater Flint Arts Council, and Share Art Genesee.

For more information, visit Kuungana’s Facebook page or website..