The daily schedule includes mixed-level Congolese dance class every morning, and a mixed-level Congolese dance class every afternoon. Both beginners and advanced dancers are welcome in all the dance classes. Dance classes are held in the gym on a huge wooden floor that is in excellent condition. More information about our dance classes

 

Congolese Drumming Classes at the Workshops

Three levels of ngoma and conga drum instruction (beginner, intermediate, and advanced) are given for an hour and a half each morning and an hour and a half each afternoon. Simple skills tests will help students assess the right class for them. Advanced students may be invited by the drum instructors to join the drum line in accompanying the dance classes held throughout the day. More information about our drum classes

Kisansi & Song Classes at the Workshops

There is instruction in kisansi (thumb piano) and Congolese-style vocal classes offered in the early afternoon each day. Kalimbas are available for use in classes. More information about our kisansi and song classes

 

Beach Day

We always have a Beach and Tour Day, typically on a Wednesday, though last-minute weather plays a factor in selecting the precise date. CDDW participants carpool to a beautiful beach selected by our local Maui resident participants. There will be Congolese dancing, drumming and singing at the beach during the day; this is often the highlight of the camp experience, a not-to-be-missed event! A picnic lunch is provided by the CDDW staff. There will be an evening dance class back at Camp Keanae.

Vacationing

Enjoy the vibrant village-style atmosphere and an affordable vacation without participating in the daily offering of classes. Vacationers can experience the beauty and calm of nature, filled with the richness of Central African culture. All individuals present during the Congolese Dance & Drum Workshops are subject to tuition guidelines, so please advise any friends or family that wish to attend that they must register and pay upon arrival.

Work study staff positions are available for a discounted tuition.

Meals - Amazing choices

A delicious buffet of Congolese, Western and vegetarian options are prepared fresh every day in our own kitchen, using organic and locally grown produce from Maui whenever possible. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are offered to sustain participants throughout the full day of activities.  

 

Kindezi  - Onsite childcare

In our village, children encouraged to participate in this unique cultural experience. We have a wonderful team of experienced, loving childcare providers that supervise creative activities including arts and crafts, African dance classes and African music classes to enrich and encourage creative expression in children. Children must be toilet-trained to participate. Kindezi is available during all adult classes, so that parents and children may do meaningful activities together or separately. To request a brochure outlining CDDW kindezi policies and procedures, please contact Cai Sorlien when you register.

African Marketplace - Onsite shopping

The Marketplace offers an array of goods associated with African music, dance and culture, including arts and crafts, instruments, clothing, jewelry and more. Many of the Workshop's instructors are talented recording artists, painters and instrument makers, whose merchandise is available for purchase. Vendors must pay $40/day vendor fee and be registered as either participants (i.e. $90/day plus $40/day vendor fee) or vacationers (i.e. $60/day plus $40/day vendor fee).

2011 Camp Location & Transportation