We Drum as One

Join us this Juneteenth In Beloved Community as we drum together transcending borders, connecting past, present, and future.Led by Vado Diomande, master drummer and cultural ambassador from the Ivory Coast and his community of drummers. Immerse yourself in the heartbeat of rhythm as we gather to celebrate freedom, resilience, and the unbroken thread of African traditions that bind the diaspora and Indigenous communities worldwide.  

No experience is needed—only an open heart and readiness to unite in collective song.

⏰ 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.

Your Facilitators:

Biography:

Vado Diomande is a virtuoso of Ivory Coast dance and drum, embodying the vibrant tapestry of West Africa’s cultural heritage. Born into the Mahou ethnic tradition, he began dancing at age four, mastering rhythms and movements from over 60 ethnic groups across the Ivory Coast and neighboring regions. At just nine years old, he was initiated as a keeper of Gue-Pelou, the sacred stilted mask dance—a role that cemented his lifelong devotion to preserving ancestral traditions.

As a principal dancer with the Ballet National de Côte d’Ivoire for 15 years, Vado honed his craft on global stages, blending the intricate footwork of styles like Kookoo, Bademalon, N’Goron, Temate, Katana, and Bolohi with the thunderous pulse of West African drums. His artistry propelled him to choreograph and tour across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Australia, earning acclaim for his dynamic storytelling and technical brilliance.

In 1989, Vado founded L’Ensemble Kokiegna d’Abidjan, later relocating to New York City in 1994 as the Kotchegna Dance Company—named for the Mahou word meaning “messenger.” For over three decades, Kotchegna has bridged cultures worldwide, using dance and drum to ignite joy, foster dialogue, and honor Africa’s diasporic legacy.

Vado’s work extends beyond performance: as a choreographer, educator, and cultural ambassador, he leads workshops, directs school programs, and mentors the next generation of artists. His mission—rooted in resilience and unity—continues to inspire global audiences, proving rhythm and movement are universal languages of healing and hope.

Learn more: www.kotchegna.com