Jean-Pierre Makosso, from Pointe Noire in the West Congo, comes from a culture rich in music, dance and storytelling.
Before his arrival in Canada, he performed with Punta Negra in the Congo, Compagnie a Miel in France and Theatre du Corps in Switzerland. In 2001, Makosso moved to Gibsons where he created Makosso Village Productions to perform and teach the stories and dance of Africa.
There are three dance classes being offered on the Coast this fall. Mama Nene is a new class with a low impact style of dance for people of all ages and body types. The movements are small and slow, infused with the fun upbeat energy Makosso is known for. This class is guaranteed to work your body and make you smile.
Makosso's talent as a teacher shines in the kids' African dance class. He uses elements of storytelling to inspire the imaginations of the children while offering a taste of traditional African music, dance, language and culture.
The adult African dance class is high energy and high impact. Makosso creates a unique environment with traditional African rhythms given by a local drum troupe to move the soul and lighten the spirit. Be prepared to sweat, be moved and smile.
African dance is vitality, rhythm and healing. Makosso, a local treasure, is full of laughter, spirit and magic.
All classes are offered at St. Hilda's Church in Sechelt beginning Sept. 23 and runs for nine weeks ending Nov. 28.
To register, call Telka at 604-886-1339, Joanna at 604-886-1579 or Denise at 604-885-4353.
