Traditional Dance Course

The Traditional Dance Course is an essential cultural preservation program designed to document, teach, and modernize endangered Tanzanian dance forms. By offering structured classes, specialized residencies, and public performance opportunities, we safeguard cultural heritage, transfer invaluable Knowledge to the next generation, and ensure these traditions remain dynamic and commercially viable.

Preservation of endangered Tanzanian dance forms.

Structured, professional classes for all ages.

Mentorship by master traditional dancers.

Focus on modern interpretation and adaptation.

Documenting movements for digital archival.

Ensuring cultural heritage remains economically viable.

Safeguarding Heritage Through Education and Performance.

Sustainable growth for the creative sector must be rooted in the preservation of Tanzania’s rich cultural history. The Traditional Dance Course directly addresses the risk of cultural knowledge loss by creating a structured environment for mastery, documentation, and adaptation of indigenous dance forms.

Course Structure

The course is divided into three levels (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced) and focuses on regionally significant dances identified by our Research Programs. Classes are taught by master dancers and historians who act as mentors, ensuring authentic knowledge transfer.

Documentation and Archival

A critical component is the comprehensive documentation of all dance movements, accompanying music, and historical context. This data is filmed and digitally archived for future reference and for use in the Research Programs, ensuring these traditions are secured permanently.

Modern Relevance

While preserving authenticity, the course encourages students to explore howtraditional movements can be integrated into contemporary dance, theatre, and commercial performance, making the art form relevant and marketable in the modern entertainment industry. Residencies at the Sanaa Arts Centre will focus on performance development and production design.

Goal

To establish a permanent syllabus for at least 15 distinct traditional dance forms within five years, securing their continuity and use in professional performance.

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