Oluyinka, Michael, and Charles have been doing a deep dive into Griot traditions through interviews, field research and choreographic explorations.
We had our first workshop exploring the first iteration of the script and choreography in January 2025.
We had our second workshop to fine tune the script and choreography in May 2025.
We have arrived at our fully realized production in September 2025!
Performance dates are September 12 - 21, 2025.
You can read more and purchase tickets here: https://events.reed.edu/event/griot
GRIOT INTERVIEW INFORMATION AND INSPIRATION
Massamba Diop is a Senegalese drumming sensation whose music has captivated audiences worldwide. From his unforgettable contributions to the Black Panther soundtrack to his collaborations with music legends like James Brown and Carlos Santana, Massamba's rhythmic journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Join him as he takes you on a rhythmic adventure spanning decades, cultures, and continents, proving that the language of music knows no bounds.
Clyde Alafiju Morgan (project mentor, consultant) received his early dance training at the Karamu House Theater and is a graduate of Cleveland State University. He made his professional debut with the José Limon Dance company, studied and performed in NY, and toured West and East Africa, before being appointed Choreographer and Artistic Director of the Grupo de Danca Contemporanea da Universidade Federal Da Bahia in Salvador, Brazil. University appointments include UW Madison, UW Milwaukee, and SUNY Brockport. In 1993 he was selected as Young Audiences Inc.’s inaugural Artist of the Year. His work has been supported by the US Dept. of State and a Fullbright Professorship, among others. He continues to live and teach in Bahia, Brazil.