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Posted: Tuesday 23 July, 2013 at 2:53 PM

Umoja Dance and Drum Workshop 2013 hailed a success

(L-R) Advance dancer Tiffany Richards, Advance dancer, beginner dancer Deondra Archibald, (centre) Alphonso Henry, 2012 Miss Talented Teen Pernelle Abraham, tutor Tama Martin, Drumming Director DiKembe Morton and tutor Carésse Hanley

By: Precious Mills, SKNVibes.com

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – A vibrant and energetic recital on Saturday (July 20) brought an exciting conclusion to the second annual Umoja Dance and Drumming Workshop conducted at the Youth and Community Centre on Victoria Road in Basseterre.

The six-day Workshop (July 15- 20), held under the theme Umoja: I Am Africa, was presented by Expressions Through Dance Company.

Each attendee was awarded a certificate of participation.

Saturday’s Concert saw presentations on African, Afro-Caribbean and Backyard drumming while the dance showcased African, Negro Spiritual and Caribbean Folk elements.

Following the individual dance group performances, all of the dancers came together to showcase ‘Umoja: Celebration.’

The participants of the Workshop were divided into Beginners, Advanced Beginners, Intermediate and Advance.

The Workshop was facilitated by the owner of Expressions Through Dance Company, Alphonso Henry, and DiKembe Morton along with tutors Carésse Hanley and Tama Martin.

Henry told SKNVibes that the Workshop “all in all was a success”.

He extended gratitude to those who participated and hopes that the knowledge imparted to them would be passed on to their colleagues.

Henry stated that 77 individuals took part in the Workshop, 15 of whom were Drummers, 16 in the Intermediate category, 30 in and Advance category and 16 in the Beginners/Advance Beginners category.

He emphasised that as long as he is in the Federation, his workshop would continue annually, adding that he has already started preparing for next year’s event.

One dancer of the Advance category, Tiffany Richards told this media house that she really enjoyed the experience of learning new dances, the African culture and also interacting with the other dancers.

She pointed out that Henry ensured the classes always started on time and that he was very patient in teaching the dance moves.

Another Advance category dancer, Carla Astaphan said the Workshop was good but tougher than last year in regards to more dance moves.