Dear friends,

The event will feature the following great performers:

• Jean-Pierre Makosso is a descendant from a long line of African storytellers. A resident of Gibsons, he is an internationally renowned African actor, storyteller, and dancer. He is currently working on his biography, conducting workshops, and promoting his own play. His recent works include Uncontrollable Laughter and Mbassu, co-written with John Conway; and Anansi the Spider. His play African Voices showed at Heritage Playouse in February for Black History Month. Read Jean-Pierre’s incredible story at www.makossovillage.com.
  
  
• Kocassale Dioubate is a Guinean of the Mandingo tribe of West Africa. A descendant of the tribe's "Griots" - traditional storytellers and musicians; the keepers of the tribe's oral history - Koca has been dancing, playing and making music since he was old enough to walk. Koca’s dynamic and magnetic energy, along with his finely-honed musical skills, create a performance unlike any other. Using only handmade, authentic West African musical instruments (that he makes himself) including the Djembe, Balafon (xylophone), Bolon (african bass), Gongoma (gourd thumb-piano) and Flute among others, Koca captures the essence of Mandingo culture through its music. His original compositions set to traditional rhythms transport audiences straight to Africa. Find out more about Koca at www.beresanke.com.
  
  
• The Diva Drum Collective is an all female rhythm & movement quartet. These beautiful, dynamic and talented women will stir your soul with their music! Check them out at http://www.navarofranco.com/perform.htm.
  
  
• The Makalas, a group of African dance enthusiasts led by Jacky Essombe.
  
• And a special performance by Jacky Essombe's fabulous dance students! What can I say? You will be “wowed”.

In the community spirit of a traditional African village, this event is for the entire family. In my culture, grand parents, parents, children and grand children all dance to the same music, all sing the same songs. When it is time to celebrate life, no one is excluded because of gender or age! So please bring your children and your entire family to celebrate together!

> The details:

Where:

Victoria Drive Community Hall – 2026 East 43^rdavenue (@ Victoria Drive)

When:

6:30 pm - Doors open
7:00 pm - Dinner (click to access the menu)
8:00 pm – 11 pm – Interactive entertainment (yes, you are a part of it!)

How much:
Adults: $29/person (advance) - $39/person (door)
Seniors & students: $25/person (advance) - $35 at the door
Child 10 to 15 years old: $12 (advance) – $15 at the door

FREE for children under 10!