African dance classes

African dance classes in Senegal

In Senegal, dance sets the rhythm of life — from ceremonies and neighborhood celebrations to weddings and major sporting events. The iconic Sabar draws its roots from Wolof and Serer traditions: its syncopated rhythm, carried by ensembles of drums, is a language shared by all Senegalese people.

In Dakar, it’s not uncommon to come across a Tanibër — open-air dance gatherings where women, dressed in their finest boubous, display grace and strength, their bare feet striking the sand in perfect harmony with the drums. The country also moves to the modern beats of mbalax, a musical genre that has become Senegal’s signature sound thanks to artists like Youssou N’Dour. Mbalax fills every local celebration, inspiring everyone to dance — a lively mix of fluid and sharp movements that combine elegance, energy, and style.

Group dance classes, often accompanied by live musicians, take place in a festive, welcoming atmosphere. Each participant is invited to step into the circle and improvise, while the drummers adjust the rhythm to the dancer’s movements. This “live interaction” is unique to Senegal and turns every session into a shared moment of joy and connection. Dance schools in Dakar, village workshops along the coast, and intensive residencies welcome all levels — each dancer finding their own space for self-expression and emotion, barefoot on the sand or in studios open to the Atlantic breeze.

Booking a dance class means immersing yourself in Senegalese culture — guided by passionate teachers who share their artistry, anecdotes, and the soulful secrets of Senegalese dance.

Available options

• Introduction to Sabar or Mbalax: learn the basic steps and understand the symbolism behind each gesture.
• Group Classes: festive atmosphere, live percussion, and individual improvisations within the rhythm circle.
• Private Lessons: personalized guidance for faster technical progress.
• Intensive Workshops: full immersion over several days, exploring rhythms, movements, and live musical collaboration.

Main Locations

• Dakar: dance schools, cultural centers, neighborhood tanibër gatherings.
• Petite Côte: workshops in Saly, Somone, Ngaparou, Popenguine.

Local anecdotes

• In Dakar, a neighborhood tanibër can bring together over a hundred dancers and percussionists — spectators are often invited to join the circle and dance.
• During traditional ceremonies, the dancer’s posture and movement intensity express joy, respect, or even playful competition.
• Drummers adapt the sabar rhythm to match the dancer’s energy, creating a living “conversation” between body and drum.

FAQ

Are beginners welcome? Yes — classes are tailored to all levels and ages.
What should I wear? Light clothing, barefoot, with a colorful scarf sometimes used to accentuate hip movements.
Duration? 1.5 to 2 hours per session; 3–5 days for intensive workshops.
Prices? €15–20 for a single session, €40–60 for multi-day workshops or residencies.