Senegal: A.E.D.E.C. School Celebration

Drum, Dance and Talent Contest

By: Charles Giuliano - Mar 01, 2009

Students gathered for a celebration of drum and dance.

The drum ensemble inspired the dancers.

A solo dancer.

Getting the beat.

Interaction.

A group of dancers.

Freestyle.

A3D directors Debra Crosby and Don Goldman enjoy the celebration.

Solo, the director of the school introduces the talent contest.

Twist and shout.

Reaching Out.

A group performing.

A split decision.

A winner.

Making her move.

Everyone joins in.

Astrid has the beat.

Don and Debra get a groove on.

Yuri Tuvim embraces MBaye Sarr,

Debra with some of the contest winners.

Jump for joy.

 

There was a holiday for students and faculty of the A.E.D.E.C. school in Senegal when the Salem, Mass. based African Development through Drum and Dance (A3D) presented 100 new desks. The event featured speeches by dignitaries as well as award certificates presented by the officers of A3D.

The students listened patiently and applauded appropriately. This was followed by a brief reception and then everyone walked a short distance to the orphanage which is related to the school. In the court yard there were chairs set up for a performance of traditional drumming led by Bay, our instructor during a two week program of drum, dance and cultural exploration. He brought with him several other musicians and the ensemble really cooked.

Many of the students, wearing their green school smocks, jumped into the center of the open court and engaged in wild improvisations. Much of this was free style and often entailed openly flirting with the handsome drummers. The more outrageous the performance the more the audience was ignited with bursts of enthusiastic shouts and applause.

Eventually, everyone got into the act including members of our American group. I gave it a try and the kids went wild. Then the A3D officers, Don Goldman and Debra Crosby joined in. They seemed to be having the time of their life. Astrid brought her unique style of dance to the mix.

On  Saturday we returned for a talent contest. A temporary stage was created covered by a tarp. The director of the school Soulemayne "Solo" Kani  made introductory remarks. The students were informed that they would be judged and winners would be selected. The event was taped by Debra Crosby who conducts talent shows that are broadcast over local access TV stations in New England. The winners of these events compete for the chance of a shot at national TV talent shows.

The program was divided between a first segment of individuals and groups of singers. This ranged from ballads and funk to rap. One girl in particular reminded me of a very young Dianna Ross. The singers were followed by dancers.

Overall the level of talent was sensational. As one of the three judges it was tough to make a decision. But there was consensus in the end and the winners were pleased to be recognized and the chance to be showcased on American TV.