Our Story
Balafon was born in Washington D.C. in 1997 out of the passion for dance that Kadiatou Conte shared with her core of dedicated students. Approaching dance as a way to share the joy of African arts and offer culturally responsive health and wellness, the performance company was involved in youth and community engagement while also mastering classic dance styles often shared on the Kennedy Center stage.
Today based out of Pittsburgh, PA, Balafon works in partnership with local artists, alumni dancers from all over the country, and master dancers and musicians from around the world. From school to communities to the theater, Balafon programs offer ways for people of all generations, backgrounds and physical abilities to discover a love for African culture and experience dancing out loud.
Bringing Mama Kadiatou’s theatrical flair gained from years touring with Guinea’s national dance company, and her desire to break the mold as one of the few women-led directors of an ensemble, Balafon skillfully blends the classic traditions of West African culture with contemporary arts and social consciousness. Elaborately colorful costumes, heart stirring live music, and high energy movement captivate, inspire and energize audiences from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Administrative Team
Linsey McDaniel, MBA, Executive Director
Diana Purdom :: PROGRAMMING
Linsey took a class with Mama Kadiatou while studying at Howard University in D.C. and fell in love with the self-expression, discipline, and cultural understanding she experienced through African dance. In her work with Balafon Linsey strives to build connections with others who are working to keep the legacy of classical traditions and the dynamic artists and teachers our ancestors offer us alive for generations to come.
Diana Eywa found Mama Kadiatou at a workshop held at The Kingsley Center and fell in love with the drum and dance culture of Guinea. In addition to performing with Balafon for Diana Eywa is a poet, lyricist, doula and mom.
zonia patterson :: booking
A native of Duquesne, PA, Zonia grew up with Jazz, Tap, & Ballet and eventually discovered African dance at Sankofa Village in Homewood. She began training under Mama Kadiatou with Balafon's youth ensemble and today she performs with Nia Dance Ensemble and Balafon West African Ensemble.
cynthia scott :: OUTREACH
Cynthia is a multitalented young professional growing her leadership skills as a Public Allies intern. She's passionate about fitness, volunteering her time to the communities she is a part of, and constantly learning new things.
Board Of Directors
Peggy Harris, President :: President & CEO, Three Rivers Youth
DIARRA IMANI, vice chair ::
ARTIST & EDUCATOR
FREDA KOOMSON, secretary :: dancer, writer, educator & public health professional
Darrel Baldwin, Treasurer :: Co-Founder Sankofa Village of the Arts
Laverne Baker Hotep :: TRAUMATIC STRESS INSTITUTE
DALILA BYRD ::
HEALTHCARE
