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Words from the Drum
Kunama Mtendaji drums, sings, dances and tells stories with a vibrant energy that brings together students of all ages. Rich in African-American folklore, this program can be customized to highlight any season. Mysterious stories will keep your students on the edge of their seats in autumn; celebrate the holiday season with stories of Kwanzaa; or rejoice in the earth’s renewal throughout Spring. Kunama will delight senses with vivid tales of unity, enhanced by audience participation in music and dance originating from the United States, Africa, Brazil and the Caribbean.
| Format | Costs | Grade Level(s) | Curriculum Connections |
| Performance | Single Performance: $357; Double Performance: $488 | Kindergarten - Grade 12 | Culture History / Social Studies Dance / Movement Music |
About Mtendaji, Kunama
Kunama Mtendaji is a veteran teacher and performer of storytelling, music and dance. He was born into a family that excelled in the oral tradition on his mother's side and musical instrumentation on his father's side. He learned traditional drumming and dance of the African diaspora during his college years at the Performing Arts Training Center, directed by the renowned dancer and anthropologist, Katherine Dunham. Baba Kunama was a principal drummer with the Chosane Dance Company, directed by his teacher, legendary master drummer Mor Thiam. While working as curator of the Katherine Dunham Museum, he deepened his understanding of "functional communal performing arts". Kunama launched his first programs to teach youth about African cultures in 1981.
All Programs by Mtendaji, Kunama
- Dance to the Drum, Drum to the Dance (Residency)
- Words from the Drum (Performance) - This Program
