Come
join the dance! Sabar Rek Atlanta is an annual Fall Conference and Cultural Event curated by artist Assane Kouyaté to share traditions of Senegal/the Senegambian region. It is an opportunity for multigenerational individuals to uncover folkloric artforms exclusive to Wolof & Serer ethnic groups – specifically the exhilarating, intricate, and vibrant SABAR dance, with a hint of kutiro, and associated drum technique (unlike djembes, sabar drums are played with one hand and a stick).

The conference kick-off on Fri Oct-7 at ADMA – Atlanta Dance & Music Academy, will include two introductory dance workshops at 5p (sabar) and 7p (kutiro) with brief overview/history (perfect for those new to sabar and West African dance). Five (5) additional specialized workshops on Sat-8 (1 drum 4 dance) and Sun-9 (5 dance), will feature highly sought out US-based Senegalese master artists, under Kouyate’s direction. All participants must register; masks are optional. Contact sabarrekatlanta@gmail.com for more details.

Also featured will be an artisan market with traditional arts and crafts by Atlanta-based African vendors for purchase, and a few opportunities to taste Senegalese appetizers and cuisine. Kouyaté’s goal is to provide traditional arts experiences that raise awareness, appreciation and understanding of West African culture and bring diverse communities together.

This program is made possible by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. It is also supported in part by ROOTS and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Special thanks also go to Atlanta’s Senegambian/West African community and small businesses.