Afro Dance Seattle Lights Up Cornish College of the Arts
By Besa Gordon - Last weekend, Cornish College of the Arts was alive with rhythm, energy, and community as Afro Dance Seattle hosted its second annual dance camp. Led by instructor and director Kiné Camara, the two-and-a-half-day experience brought together dancers, teachers, and culture lovers for an unforgettable celebration of African dance.
With nine instructors traveling in from across the country, the camp immersed attendees in a variety of Afro dance styles — from traditional Guinean dance to Naija streets, amapiano, dancehall, and more. “We wanted to create a camp where everybody leaves feeling loved, nourished, and connected — not just the students, but the teachers and team as well,” Camara explained.
And the vibes? Immaculate. “High energy, thoughtful, intentional, playful — it’s really hard to put into words,” Camara said with a laugh. “There’s love dripping off the walls. All you have to do is graze the wall, and you’ll catch it.”
For Camara, who was born in Boston to a Senegalese father and raised in Seattle, the event is deeply personal. She sees Afro Dance Seattle as filling a vital gap in U.S. dance education. “In Europe, there are tons of camps like this. Here in the U.S., there are only three. I wanted to create a space where people could learn these styles while being embraced by community.”
The camp wasn’t just for seasoned dancers. Afro Dance Seattle is intentional about welcoming everyone, from beginners to advanced movers. “If you’re new and maybe even intimidated, don’t worry. We’ve got true beginner classes where you’ll be in great hands,” Camara emphasized.
What’s Next
The team plans to return next summer with their third camp — this time aiming for June. But in the meantime, the community stays active with weekly Monday classes at Dance Underground in Capitol Hill. For those who want to get involved, you can learn more and register at afrodanceseattle.com.
“Afro Dance Seattle is the hub,” Camara said. “If you’re looking for a fun, loving community or just want to try something new, this is the place.”
