Two Queens based African dance groups are performing at the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning (JCAL) on Feb 23. And Feb 24. in celebration of Black History Month.
Kofago Dance Ensemble will perform West African dancing on Friday Feb 23., followed by FANIKE! African Dance Troupe on Feb. 24 at JCAL located at 161-04 on Jamaica Avenue.
Kevin McEwen, founder and artistic director of Kofago Dance Ensemble learned his dancing techniques from his travels in Senegal, Mali and Guinea. He has also expanded and learnt Afro Cuban, Afro Jazz and Haitian Folkloric in recent years which he taught to his dance group.
Kofago Dance Ensemble first performed at JCAL in 2018 for the Making Moves Dance Festival, and McEwen said that returning to this stage feels like a profound homecoming.
“That initial opportunity to share our vision and artistry with the community laid the groundwork for all that we have achieved since. This show is not just a performance; it’s a celebration of our journey, growth, and the enduring support we’ve received from JCAL and our audience. We’re thrilled to bring our latest work to the stage where it all began, honoring our roots and the rich tapestry of Black history through dance,” he said.
The festivities will continue with FANIKE! African Dance Troupe performing a show consisting of drumming and dance honoring the ancestors of the African Diaspora.
The shows will begin at 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and tickets are $20 for each evening and $30 for a weekend pass to see both. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the JCAL website.
