West African Djembe, Dundun and Dance Workshops
Come experience the power, groove and joy of West African djembe, dundun and dance in an afternoon of live rhythm and movement. Led by Hans Sutton, special guest Seydou Kienou and Brenda Mayr, expect high-energy teaching, deep rhythms and an uplifting, community atmosphere. All levels welcome!
Early bird tickets are available until 31 March. After that, tickets will be standard price to buy in advance or at the event. Book early to guarantee a space and drum availability.
Ages 8–16 are also welcome to join the classes, with adult supervision – curious, focused young learners encouraged! See kids prices, on the ticketing site. Supervising adults are welcome to hang out, or better still, buy a ticket to join the class 🤩
We offer concessions - we want to make this accessible. Message Hans for a concessions discount code via facebook.com/HansSuttonDrums - and please bear with us while we iron out this option!
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Timetable
3:00–4:30pm / Dundun with Hans SuttonLearn the dundun bass drums – the melodic heartbeat of the West African djembe ensemble. Hans is a warm, welcoming and highly skilled teacher with decades of experience with Guinean and Malian repertoire. Dunduns available to borrow for free – but book in advance to guarantee a drum. Please do let Hans know if you're able to bring your own dunduns!
4:40–6:20pm / Djembe with Seydou KienouInfectious energy and percussive fireworks from Seydou Kienou, master drummer and griot from Burkina Faso. A dynamic performer and teacher who has recently been touring with Seckou Keita, Seydou brings depth, groove and electrifying solo flair to the djembe. Bring your own djembe or book a ticket including djembe hire (£2.50). Please make sure to remove and safely store any rings, bracelets and watches to avoid damaging your hands or the drums.
6:20–7:50pm / Guinean Dance with Brenda MayrMove with power and joy in Guinean Ballet style, blending traditional rhythms with dynamic, contemporary flair. With live drumming, Brenda guides you through choreography in an inclusive, energising space.
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Location
We're in the Dance Hall at Chestnuts Community Centre, 280 St Ann's Rd, London, N15 5BN.
Nearest Transport:
Seven Sisters, South Tottenham, Harringay Green Lanes, Turnpike Lane (easy via 67 bus).
Parking:
- Street parking north and west of Chestnuts Park is free (eg La Rose Ln and Falmer Rd) and less than 5 mins walk across the small park. Check road signage and don't stray into streets East or South of the park.
- Please don't park in the area directly in front of the community centre - this is reserved for event organisers using the various facilities!
- The St Ann's Hospital car park is directly across the road from the community centre and (we're told) is fairly cheap.
What's nearby:
If you don't know the area... Green Lanes is famous for its incredible Turkish eateries. Do check them out after the workshops!