Lannaya Drum & Dance
Lannaya Drum & Dance (Lannaya) is a nonprofit 501 c(3) organization formed in 2000. Our mission is to expose and educate audiences to authentic and progressive interpretations of drum and dance of the African diaspora.
We are committed to preserving the vibrant cultural traditions of West Africa through engaging and interactive workshops, performances and instruction at K-12 schools, festivals, community/cultural events, galas, parties, receptions, and a host of special events. In Su Su, a language of Guinea, Lannaya means “confidence.” It’s what we seek to express in our work and instill in audiences through a variety of programming suitable for small/large audiences, and diverse facilities, including:
Rhythm & Movement of West Africa!, interactive on-campus school show for grades K-12.
Drum and/or Dance Residency (two week minimum).
African Diaspora Drum/Dance Workshops.
Drum and dance performances of traditional, and innovative African diasporic rhythms.
Since 2008, we’ve performed statewide for Texans in their own communities, via selection in the highly competitive Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA)’s Touring Roster. Grants from the Texas Commission on the Arts could cover up to 50% of Lannaya’s total fee! “Arts Respond Performance Support grants” provide support to nonprofit organizations in Texas interested in booking Lannaya and other artists from the TCA Touring Roster. This means that these grants are open to schools, libraries, and nonprofit organizations to apply for grants to hire artists like Lannaya. Support is based on TCA’s available funds.
