Kumbuka African Drum & Dance Collective has been actively performing in schools throughout the state of Louisiana since 1983.  School performances are lively presentations that include music, dance and folklore. Students are exposed to the similarities in African culture and the culture of Louisiana. Both students and teachers are actively involved in this experience which always leaves the schools yelling for more!! Each presentation is 45 minutes and includes counting in Swahili, making scientific and geographcial observations about Africa and discovery of the many contributions that Africa has made to the world. Students are encouraged to understand concepts based on analytical skills and practical application. Programs are applicable for students Pre-K to 12th grade.  Presentations are accompanied by study guides and positive affirmations encouraging students to excell in school, say no to drugs, eat heart healthy foods and to promote love, peace and respect for all people. For booking information contact Ausettua AmorAmenkum at 504-944-7278 kumbuka@bellsouth.net or Young Audiences at 504-523-3525 or  www.ya4la.org
Stephanie "Qena Tchaas" McKee and  students from Kingsley House Summer Camp 2007	Drummers Shaka Zulu & Brotha T with students at Kingsley House	Boys at Kingsley House dancing and loving it!
Roscoe Reddix leading the men dancing Satchmo Festival 2006	Ausettua, kids and parents playing at Satchmo Festival 2006	KUMBUKA AFRICAN DRUM & DANCE COLLECTIVE PROGRAM DESCRIPTION     PROCESSIONAL All performances begin with procession through audience when feasible with The Jambo Song    INTRODUCTION Includes an introduction of historical and cultural facts about the continent of Africa, interwoven with songs, chants and games;   INSTRUMENTATION Students and teachers are encouraged to play instruments provided by KUMBUKA, which include shakere, demba block, kalimba, encassa rattles, agogo bells, log drums, djun djun drums and the djembe drum     MOVEMENT AND DANCE Students and teachers are encouraged to learn the dance movements demonstrated by a KUMBUKA member. Usually the highlight of the program!   LANGUAGE INTRODUCTION Students and teachers are introduced to speaking in Swahili through the use of rhythms to learn how to count and say basic terms. Familiarity with existing language skills are heavily drawn on.    SELF ESTEEM BUILDING Positive messages and motivating dialogue exists throughout the entire performance. Messages range from developing positive conflict resolution skills to say no to drugs, obeying parents, teachers, eating healthy and giving thanks to God.   (All performances are custom designed to fit the appropriate age group and audience)