Cowry Shells and West African Dancing with Masani St. Rose

Masani St. Rose, adorned with a cowry shell necklace and clad in a colorful lappa—a traditional skirt—led the West African edition of Stories in Motion at the end of March. Her attire was not just a choice of fashion but a profound symbol of connection to her cultural roots. Dancing barefoot, she demonstrated a physical and spiritual grounding, emphasizing the importance of connecting with the earth—an integral element of West African dance traditions.

The workshop began with Masani explaining the significance of each movement and its connection to daily life and history in West African cultures. It wasn't just a dance session; it was an immersive cultural experience, educating and enthralling in equal measure.

Participants moved energetically under Masani's guidance, learning not only the steps but also the stories behind them. The dance sequences were a blend of storytelling and exercise, a form of expression that extends beyond mere physical activity to encompass spiritual and historical dimensions.

As the workshop concluded, the participants were not only sweating but also smiling—elated with the joy of learning and the sense of community. Masani's workshop served as a bridge, connecting Calgary's diverse community members through the universal language of dance and rhythm.

The session, part of the ongoing Stories in Motion series, proved to be a meaningful exploration of movement and heritage, highlighting how dance can be a powerful conduit for cultural transmission and understanding. The next session will be held on Saturday, May 25th.