Roots & Rhythms: Congolese with Andoche

Awaken Your Spirit to the Pulse of the Congo 

Ignite your energy and embrace the vibrant traditions of Central Africa in this dynamic Congolese Dance & Drum class led by Master Artist Andoche Loubaki. Join us on the DuYe Moves lawn and get your waist lines rolling  in this immersive playtime that invites you to sway, stomp, and sync with the sacred and celebratory rhythms of the *Ngoma* drum—the heartbeat of Kongo culture. Begin with fluid isolations and stretches to awaken the body, inspired by Congo Basin movement traditions.  Learn the circular hip rolls, grounded footwork, and expressive gestures of *Kongo dance*, from ceremonial rituals to jubilant community celebrations.  

In the Drum Circle you’ll get a taste of the polyrhythms and the power of the *Ngoma* which is the drum that embodies the soul of Bantu musical traditions. The Ngoma represents a cultural cornerstone: in Kikongo, it signifies dances, rhythms, and the social ceremonies that bind communities. Across the Congo Basin and Swahili-speaking regions, Ngoma music is a holistic practice—where drumming, song, and movement unite as one living art form. Andoche will share some the stories it carries, passed down through generations of resilience and joy."

⏰ 12PM Lawn Opens

⏰ 1PM Session Starts

Bring a mat, blankets., cozy layers, an eye masks/bandana/scarf to cover their eyes.and an open heart.

Also, we highly suggested packing snacks or a little pinic action so you may enjoy the lawn after the session.

Biography:

Andoche Loubaki, a Congolese dance and drum virtuoso, has dedicated his life to preserving the Congo’s artistic soul. Born in Brazzaville, he trained under choreographer Louis Causete before mastering the *Ngoma* drum with the famed ensemble *Tourbillon*. As a principal dancer with *Ballet Ngoma Za Kongo* (“Drums of the Kongo”), he toured globally, sharing the region’s diverse traditions from Gabon to Malta. In 2013, he founded *Mfouambila* (“Groove”), a performing arts collective that fuses ancestral rhythms with contemporary fire. Now based in the U.S., Andoche captivates students with his infectious passion, technical precision, and deep reverence for Kongo culture.