The Gem of the Hills Community Center is going to be the venue of a unique cultural experience for the residents of Blanco and surrounding counties. West African Master Dancer, Moustapha Bangoura, is going to be teaching a dance class at Gem of the Hills on Tuesday, August 3 at 6:00 p.m. Moustapha’s appearance in Blanco is a special occasion to be sure.

Moustapha Bangoura hails from the West African nation of Guinea. He is a 22-year veteran of the largest and most celebrated dance company from the continent of Africa, Les Ballets Africains. The internationally acclaimed master dancer, drummer, and choreographer has traveled the globe bringing the colorful musical performance traditions of his homeland to audiences worldwide. Moustapha’s mission is to continue to share his expertise while preserving the richness and authenticity of the culture. He is recognized for his thorough and charismatic technique that is deeply rooted in tradition.

African Dance classes at the Gem of the Hills began a year ago, taught by local resident Libbey Aly. Mrs. Aly has been studying West African drum and dance for over twelve years, and performed with the Austin based Lannaya: West African Drum and Dance Ensemble for over seven years. The small, yet committed , group of dancers have studied traditional rhythms from Guinea, West Africa and began a new rhythm just a little more than a month ago.

Moustapha will be teaching the same dance, Sornsonet, that the class has been working on as of late and the class is very excited to have the opportunity to train with a master.

Dance classes are accompanied by live drummers, lead by drummer/percussionist Brandon Aly. Mr. Aly teaches a drum class prior to each dance class beginning at 5:00 p.m. Mr. Aly is the Assistant Band Director for the Blanco High School Panther Band and also serves as Percussion Director for the Band.

Dancers and drummers are encouraged to attend this very special event. The fee for this Master Class is $15.00. Individuals interested in observing the class are encouraged to do so. A donation of $5.00 is suggested and will go directly to the teacher. Drum class and dance class is an ongoing event at the Gem of the Hills. Anyone interested in attending is more than welcome – all levels and all ages are encouraged!

For more information on this event, please contact Libbey Aly at libbey@moment.net. The Gem of the Hills Community Center is located at 2233 North US Highway 281 in Blanco.