Find Your Rhythm: West African Dance Workshop with Awal Alhassan & Sohoyini

Before they take the stage for their evening concert, join master artist Awal Alhassan and members of Sohoyini for an interactive, 45-minute introduction to West African dance. Specializing in Ghanaian traditions, Awal and Sohoyini lead a session that is as much about storytelling and community as it is about dance. 

Perfect Preparation: Learn the fundamental steps and rhythms of the music you’ll hear later that night. When the concert starts, you won't just be a spectator—you’ll be part of the groove. 

For Everyone: This workshop is designed for all ages and all skill levels. Whether you have two left feet or have been dancing for years, the focus is on joy, connection, and movement. 

The Ultimate Warm-Up: Get your blood flowing and your spirit lifted in the beautiful, open-air setting of Waikiki Beach. 

Bring your energy, your curiosity, and your comfortable shoes. We’ll see you at the amphitheater! 

American Roots Concert Series: Boka Kouyaté & the Djeliyah Band will follow this workshop and startas at 7PM at the same location. Boka Kouyaté is a singer and multi-instrumentalist (balafón, guitar, djembe) from Guinea. He is a member of West Africa’s most famous family of Mande hereditary musicians, also referred to as griots or djelys. After moving to the United States in early 2014, Boka Kouyaté co-founded Kouyaté Arts, an interactive performance company of drummers, dancers and singers.  He is the lead vocalist, composer and founder of the Djeliyah Band.  The Djeliyah Band presents West African Music & Dance, fusing traditional Griot and Djeli music with Afro-Beat and the modern music of Guinea to share the energetic Highlife sound. 

Accessibility statement

Washington State Parks Folk & Traditional Arts Program is committed to making our events accessible to everyone. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please contact FolkArts@parks.wa.gov or (360) 701-7923 at least 14 days prior to the event. For more information, please visit https://parks.wa.gov/folk-and-traditional-arts-program.