Business Details
41 Years
experience
Youth African Dance & Drumming Classes in Durham, NC
Collage Dance Company has dedicated over 35 years to nurturing youth through the transformative power of African dance, music, and visual arts. Founded in 1985 by Sadiyah Shakur-Saleem, our mission centers on building confidence, creativity, and perseverance in young people by connecting them to their cultural heritage. Our programs have consistently demonstrated measurable success, with a 99% high school graduation rate and 97% higher education attainment among alumni. We offer structured training in traditional African dance and drumming at the historic Hayti Heritage Center, taught by master instructors with deep industry expertise. Our alumni have achieved remarkable academic and professional milestones, including doctorates, advanced degrees, and careers in education, medicine, and the arts.We emphasize holistic development, linking rhythmic discipline to academic success and personal growth. Through annual performances and community events, we provide platforms for youth to showcase their talents while preserving cultural traditions. Our flexible payment plans and family-friendly pricing reflect our commitment to accessibility. With a legacy of mentorship and artistic excellence, we empower the next generation to embrace their potential through movement and music.
Services
Youth Dance Classes
Drumming Instruction
Cultural Enrichment Programs
Performance Opportunities
Mentorship Training
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of proven success in youth development through dance
- 99% high school graduation rate among program participants
- Master instructors with professional backgrounds in African dance traditions
- Curriculum integrating cultural heritage with character development
- Flexible payment plans for family accessibility
Services
Youth Dance Classes
Structured African dance instruction for ages 5-18 develops motor skills, cultural awareness, and artistic expression. Classes combine traditional movements with modern styles like jazz and hip-hop. Expert instructors use rhythmic patterns to enhance cognitive development and physical coordination.
Drumming Instruction
Beginner and advanced drumming classes teach traditional African rhythms and techniques. Students learn cultural significance while developing musical proficiency. Courses include ensemble playing and solo performance opportunities. Instructors use authentic instruments for immersive learning experiences.
Cultural Enrichment Programs
Programs integrate dance, music, and visual arts to strengthen cultural identity. Activities include storytelling, costume design, and historical context education. Participants gain appreciation for African diaspora traditions while building self-confidence through creative expression.
Performance Opportunities
Annual concerts and community events showcase student talents. Performances include Kwanzaa celebrations, weddings, and gallery openings. Participants develop stage presence and teamwork skills. Events emphasize cultural preservation through live artistic presentations.
Mentorship Training
Experienced instructors provide guidance in personal growth and artistic development. Programs emphasize perseverance, discipline, and academic success. Alumni network connects students with role models in education, medicine, and the arts. Mentorship fosters leadership and community responsibility.
People
Sadiyah Shakur-Saleem
Founder
Founder of Collage Dance Company with 35+ years of experience in African dance education. Former member of Chuck Davis Dance Company. Advocate for cultural arts in youth development. Holds advanced degrees in dance education.
Toni K. Hall
Artistic Director
Founding member of Chuck Davis African American Dance Ensemble. Master instructor with decades of experience teaching traditional African dance techniques. Specializes in cultural movement preservation and youth mentorship.
Teli Shabu
Master Drummer
Accomplished percussionist specializing in African rhythms. Director of Shabutaso/TMOAR music group. Teaches drumming techniques to students of all skill levels. Performs regularly with cultural arts organizations.
Taylor Dorsey
Instructor
Collage Dance Company alumna with Hampton University dance degree. Co-owner of GROWTH mentorship organization. Combines modern and traditional dance styles in youth instruction. Focuses on creative expression and technical development.
Questions
What age groups do your dance classes serve?
We offer classes for children aged 5-9 and advanced classes for ages 10-18.
Are there performance opportunities for students?
Yes, students participate in our annual concert and various community events throughout the year.
Do you offer financial assistance for families?
We provide payment plans and special pricing for multiple children in the same family.
What dance styles are included in your curriculum?
Our program covers traditional African dance, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and Afrobeats styles.
How does dance training benefit academic performance?
Our program links rhythmic patterns to cognitive development, improving focus, discipline, and motor skills that enhance academic achievement.
