Féraba – African Rhythm Tap Company presents Sabar Tap Performed at 92NY as part of the Harkness Dance Center’s Uptown Rhythm Dance Festival and Women Move the World Mainstage Series. Date: March 4, 2026 About the piece: Sabar-Tap draws from the rhythmic and movement traditions of Senegalese sabar dance, particularly the Kaolack tradition. In this work, Artistic Director Irene Koloseus reinterprets traditional sabar movement through the lens of American rhythm tap, exploring how these movements can be expanded and transformed into layered percussive sound. The choreography focuses on translating movement into rhythm, allowing the dancers to both embody and create the music. Throughout the piece, the dancers engage in direct dialogue with live West African drummers through call-and-response, improvisation, and a swing-based rhythmic exchange. Performers: Irene Koloseus, Lynn Schwab, Stephanie Larriere, and Chikako Iwahori (dance); Abou Sylla and Andy Algire (djembe); Niko Diarra (doun doun).

Féraba offers engaging educational programs that introduce students and community members to the vibrant traditions of West African percussion, dance, and American tap. Our school assemblies and workshops provide hands-on learning experiences where participants explore rhythm, movement, and cultural storytelling. Programs are designed for all ages and abilities, encouraging active participation, teamwork, and creative expression while deepening appreciation for global musical traditions. For more info: www.feraba.com

Beats & Bonds – Drumming Together as a Family A joyful, hands-on West African percussion experience for all ages! Led by master drummer Ibrahima “Kolipe” Camara (from Guinea, West Africa), this community-centered program brings the vibrant rhythms of djembe, doundoun, shakers, and more to New Lots Library. July 2025

Sounds of West Africa: A Celebration of Mande Music Traditions Premiere at Clinton Hill Library – June 2024 In June 2024, Sounds of West Africa: A Celebration of Mande Music Traditions premiered at the Clinton Hill Library. The full-length performance featured an entirely original repertoire, newly composed works by the quartet that honored Mande musical traditions while offering fresh, contemporary interpretations. Audiences were immersed in a dynamic presentation that combined innovation with cultural depth, enriched by storytelling, rhythmic dialogue, and interactive elements that celebrated and reimagined West African heritage for today's audiences. Presented as part of Brooklyn Public Library’s Folk Arts program, supported by funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, the premiere served as a joyful and educational celebration of cross-cultural connection through music.

Members of the group Feraba conduct West African percussion classes in libraries, community centers, Senior centers and public schools.