Because We Are: Living the AADC Legacy

Friday, February 27 and Saturday, February 28, 2026

Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center, 275 N. Eagleson Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405

KUKUSANYA: International Africanist Dance Intensive exposes participants to dance from the perspectives of African American culture and the broader African Diaspora through master classes, panel discussions, and performances.

Previously known as the African American Dance Company (AADC) Annual Dance Workshop, the AADC and Director Baba Stafford C. Berry, Jr. proudly present KUKUSANYA as the 28th anniversary event offered to the IU and greater Bloomington and surrounding communities.

People of all backgrounds and levels (ages 12+) are invited to participate in KUKUSANYA dance and drum masterclasses.

KUKUSANYA Schedule

Friday, February 27, 2026

Artist Panel Discussion
"Because We Are: Living the AADC Legacy” Moderated by Baba Stafford & Professor Iris Rosa
Time: 4:00–5:30 p.m.
Location: Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center, Grand Hall
Admission: Free and open to the public

West African Bantaba with Baba Stafford & Guest Artists
Time: 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: School of Public Health: SPH 161
Admission: Participants must register. Registration coming soon.

Saturday, February 28, 2026

Note: Multiple classes are offered during each time slot. Registration and payment is required to participate in classes. All Saturday classes are held in the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center, 275 N. Eagleson Avenue.

9:00–10:15 a.m.

• Dunham with Dr. Sheila Ward
• House with Danzel Thompson-Stout
• Jazz/Contemporary with Corey Boatner 
• West African with Baba McDaniel Roberts
• Drumming with Joyce Lindsey

10:30–11:45 a.m.

• Dunham with Dr. Sheila Ward
• House with Danzel Thompson-Stout
• Jazz/Contemporary with Corey Boatner 
• West African with Baba McDaniel Roberts
• Contemporary African with Jaylen Ray & Alexis Beverly

12:00–1:00 p.m. Luncheon

1:30–3:30 p.m.

Note: Participants must be available and agree to perform in the informal Dance Showcase at 6–7:30 p.m. in the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center Grand Hall. The 1:30–3:30 p.m. classes are focused on choreography and preparation for informal performance.

• Dunham with Dr. Sheila Ward
• House with Danzel Thompson-Stout
• Jazz/Contemporary with Corey Boatner 
• West African with Baba McDaniel Roberts
• CapoTechnique with Beatrice Capote

28th Annual Dance Showcase
Time: 6:00–7:30 p.m. 
Location: Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center, Grand Hall
Admission: Free and open to the public