Business Details
41 Years
experience
Youth African Dance Classes in Durham, NC
Founded in 1985, Collage Dance Company has dedicated over 35 years to nurturing youth through the transformative power of African dance, music, and visual arts. Our mission centers on building confidence, creativity, and character by immersing young people in their cultural heritage. With a 99% high school graduation rate and 97% higher education attainment among alumni, we have consistently demonstrated the profound impact of arts education on academic and personal success. Our programs, led by master instructors like Toni K. Hall and Teli Shabu at Durham's Hayti Heritage Center, emphasize technical skill development while fostering perseverance and self-expression.Through annual concerts and community performances at events like Kwanzaa celebrations, we provide platforms for youth to showcase their talents and connect with cultural traditions. Our alumni have achieved remarkable success across diverse fields, from medicine and education to professional dance and music. By integrating scientific understanding of arts' benefits with hands-on mentorship, we create holistic learning experiences that enhance motor skills, mental health, and cultural pride. As a community-driven organization, we remain committed to making dance accessible while maintaining rigorous artistic standards.
Services
Youth dance classes
Drumming instruction
Cultural education
Performance training
Mentorship programs
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of proven success in youth development through arts education
- 99% high school graduation rate among program participants
- Master instructors with professional backgrounds in African dance and music
- Curriculum integrating cultural heritage with technical skill development
- Proven academic and personal growth benefits supported by scientific research
Services
Youth Dance Classes
Structured dance instruction for ages 5-18 focusing on traditional African movement, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and Afrobeats. Classes develop technical skills while fostering cultural pride and self-expression. Instructors include founding members of renowned African dance ensembles.
Drumming Instruction
Beginner and advanced drumming classes teaching rhythm patterns from the African Diaspora. Led by master musician Teli Shabu, students learn traditional techniques and develop musicality through hands-on instruction with professional-grade instruments.
Cultural Education
Integrated arts education connecting dance and music to African cultural heritage. Programs emphasize historical context, traditional practices, and the role of performing arts in community development through immersive learning experiences.
Performance Training
Comprehensive training preparing students for public performances at annual concerts and community events. Includes stagecraft, ensemble coordination, and professional development with guest choreographers and industry experts.
Mentorship Programs
Personalized guidance fostering character development and academic success through arts education. Combines technical instruction with life skills training, leveraging dance as a tool for building perseverance and self-confidence.
People
Sadiyah Shakur-Saleem
Founder
Founder of Collage Dance Company and original member of The Chuck Davis Dance Company. With decades of experience in African dance education, she has mentored generations of students while promoting cultural heritage through the arts.
Toni K. Hall
Artistic Director
Founding member of Chuck Davis African American Dance Ensemble and master instructor specializing in traditional African dance techniques. Brings extensive professional performance experience to youth education programs.
Teli Shabu
Master Drummer
Accomplished musician and educator specializing in African percussion. With Shabutaso/TMOAR, he teaches drumming techniques rooted in diaspora traditions while developing students' musical leadership capabilities.
Taylor Dorsey
Instructor
Collage Dance Company alumna and Hampton University graduate. Co-owner of GROWTH mentor organization, bringing contemporary dance expertise and youth development experience to instructional programs.
Questions
What age groups do your dance classes serve?
We offer classes for children aged 5-9 and teens aged 10-18, with separate beginner and advanced levels in both dance and drumming instruction.
How do dance classes benefit academic performance?
Our programs integrate scientific research showing arts education improves motor skills, mental health, and cognitive abilities that directly support academic achievement and classroom focus.
What cultural heritage elements are included?
Classes incorporate traditional African movement, rhythm patterns from the diaspora, and historical context connecting dance techniques to their cultural origins and community significance.
Are payment plans available for class fees?
Yes, we offer flexible payment options including full payment or half payments. Special rates are available for multiple children in the same family.
How can I enroll my child in classes?
Visit our website to download the registration form or join the Sa-To's Friends list for updates on class schedules and enrollment opportunities.
