Toward a Global Conversation in Black Movement
Black Modern Dance is not a single lineage but a constellation — a vibrant, evolving tapestry of embodied knowledge, diasporic history, and contemporary innovation. From the African continent to the Caribbean, from Brazil to the United States, from the Indian Ocean to Europe and beyond, Black dance techniques stand as intellectual traditions, aesthetic systems, and powerful tools for cultural transmission.
This professional workshop on six weeks, at the École des Sables, invites dancers to embark on an in-depth exploration.
What might Black modern dance look like?
What philosophies shape it?
How have African artists and artists from the diaspora codified, preserved, and developed their body languages?
How do these forms interact with one another?
Black Modern Dance Techniques
During 6 weeks, students will immerse themselves in intensive practice of the following techniques, taught by renowned artist-researchers in the field of dance.
THE ACOGNY TECHNIQUE
Dr Omilade Davis-Smith – United States
Artistic Director, École des Sables
Professor, The American University
KATHERINE DUNHAM TECHNIQUE
Dr Saroya Corbett – United States
Chair of the History and Theory Program, Institute for Dunham Technique Certification (IDTC)
Mellon Postdoctoral Fellow in African Studies, Williams College
UMFUNDALAI TECHNIQUE
Dr C. Kemal Nance – United States
Senior Master Teacher, Umfundalai Technique
Dance Professor, University of Illinois
Artistic Director, Nance Dance Collective
ANTECH: ANCESTRAL MEMORIES SYNERBRIDGED AS CARIMOD
Dr L’Antoinette Stines, O.D. – Jamaica
Creator of the L’Anyah Carimod (L’Antech) technique
DECONSTRUCTING BLACK MODERN DANCE PRACTICES FOR CONTEMPORARY BODIES
Dr Patrick Acogny – Senegal / France
Choreographer, Dance Pedagogue
Researcher in Contemporary African Dance
A Living Dialogue
This Black Modern Dance Workshop is designed to:
- Exploring embodied knowledge systems across continents.
- To ground dancers in the historical, cultural, and philosophical foundations of African and diaspora dance techniques.
- Provide rigorous daily training with experienced instructors.
- To encourage critical dialogue and reflection.
- Build bridges between African, diaspora, and contemporary global practices.
- To provide a space for experimentation, personal research, and creative exchange.
Practical Information
Training Dates
January 4 through February 13, 2027
Registration Deadline
December 7, 2026
Pricing
2 750 € for this training.
Payment Terms
- 200 € to reserve your spot as soon as you receive your acceptance notification.
- 1 275 € by 3 weeks after notification of acceptance.
- 1 275 € no later than December 7, 2026.
Included: lodging, meals, classes, and transportation between the airport and the École des Sables.
Not included: Airfare, visas (if required), vaccinations, mandatory travel insurance, and optional excursions are the responsibility of the participant.
Full payment is due by December 7, 2026.
Contact us for information about installment payment options.
How do I apply?
To apply, please fill out the FORM and submit it no later than December 7, 2026, including:
- Your resume
- A cover letter or a video explaining why you would like to participate in this training program.
- A recent photo
- A two-minute video showing you dancing solo in your own style.
For more information:
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