2026 Rhythm Routes: Exploring Dance Traditions of the African Diaspora

One Day Only: April 25, 2026 | Austin, TX Austin, TX – Dance Africa Fest invites you to experience the vibrant rhythms, movements, and stories of the African Diaspora at the 2026 Rhythm Routes Conference, a one-day celebration of global Black dance traditions. Taking place on April 25, 2026, this extraordinary event will feature workshops, live drumming, an artists' marketplace, and world-renowned teaching artists—all under one roof at Blue Moon Dance Co. in Austin, TX. Honoring, Remembering, Celebrating At its heart, Dance Africa Fest is about honoring, remembering, and celebrating the cultural and historical heritage of dances rooted in African traditions. The African Diaspora refers to global communities with African roots, whose cultural traditions have shaped and enriched societies worldwide. This year’s conference will showcase dance styles from six countries—Jamaica, Barbados, Mali, Guinea, The Bahamas, and the United States (specifically, the American South). Participants will learn from expert dance educators and cultural preservationists, exploring the history, culture, and transformative power of these traditions. Workshop Details: When: April 25, 2026, from 9:00 AM (last class starts at 5:30 PM). The Artists' Market closes at 7:30 PM. Where: Blue Moon Dance Co., 3005 S. Lamar Blvd, #110-A, Austin, TX. Cost: $25 per workshop (class packages available). Special Offer: Stay tuned for a chance to win FREE tickets! Workshops will feature live drumming by local expert musicians, adding an authentic and immersive element to the experience. Meet the 2026 Teaching Artists This year’s lineup includes some of the most accomplished and celebrated artists in the world of African Diaspora dance: Dr. Yanique Hume – Priestess, dancer, and scholar blending ritual, research, and performance. Souleymane “Solo” Sana – Malian choreographer and cultural ambassador specializing in Mande dance, a cornerstone of West African drum and dance. Michelle Grant-Murray – Artistic Director of Olujimi Dance Theatre, blending contemporary and African Diaspora dance forms with eco-feminist themes. A’Keitha Carey – Creator of CaribFunk, a fusion dance technique rooted in Afro-Caribbean, ballet, and modern dance traditions. Mami Sayon Camara – Guinean choreographer and performer celebrated for her dynamic teaching and cultural storytelling. More Than Dance: A Vibrant Artists' Marketplace In addition to the workshops, attendees can explore the Artists' Marketplace, a free-admission event featuring handmade, one-of-a-kind creations by artists of African descent. Shop before or after your session to take home something truly special. Why Dance Africa Fest? Since its founding in 2014 by Tonya Pennie, Dance Africa Fest has been a cornerstone of Austin’s cultural landscape, offering artistic and educational activities that celebrate the rich traditions of African Diaspora dance, which includes dance traditions from Black communities worldwide. Unlike other festivals, Dance Africa Fest presents an expansive review of African Diaspora dance traditions from across the globe, embracing diversity in identity, practice, and methodology. This year’s Rhythm Routes Conference continues that legacy, providing a space for cultural heritage, remembrance, and exploration. Workshops are intentionally held on sprung dance floors to protect participants’ joints and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of African Diaspora dance and its global impact, as well as practical skills from world-class instructors.