Location: André Cailloux Center
2541 Bayou Rd, New Orleans, LA, 70119

5:00 pm

Libation (Open to the public)

5:30 pm- 7:00 pm

Bounce Dance with Jazz Johnson

Experience the vibrant pulse of New Orleans Bounce—a high-energy dance form birthed in the 1990s that embodies liberation, joy, and cultural pride. This class explores the deep-rooted connections between Bounce and African diasporic movement traditions, highlighting the ways rhythm, community, and self-expression come together on the dance floor. Dancers of all levels are invited to celebrate the spirit of New Orleans through movement that uplifts and empower

7:15 pm- 8:45 pm

Haitian Gede Dance with Nadia Dieudonné

This class explores movements inspired by Haiti’s rich folkloric traditions and spiritual heritage, offering dancers an opportunity to connect with ancestral memory, ground in rhythm, and embody the power of the drum. Special focus will be placed on Gede, a dance that is associated with death and ancestral connection, known for their playful, irreverent energy and deep ties to Haitian identity. All levels are welcome.

Location: André Cailloux Center
2541 Bayou Rd, New Orleans, LA, 70119

12:30 pm- 2:00 pm

Afro-Cuban with Emilio Gonzalez Hernandez

This class introduces adult dancers to the foundational movements and rhythms of Afro-Cuban dance, with a focus on Orisha-based techniques and their spiritual and cultural roots. Through grounded movement, polyrhythmic footwork, and guided exploration, dancers will embody the powerful connection between tradition, storytelling, and physical expression. All levels welcome; open hearts and open minds encouraged.

2:15 pm- 3:45 pm

2nd Line Dance Aesthetic with Michelle Gibson

Rooted in the rich cultural traditions of New Orleans, this high-energy class explores the movement, rhythm, and spirit of 2nd Line dancing. Dancers will dive into the improvisational style, footwork, and attitude that define the 2nd Line dance—blending joy, resilience, and community expression. Come ready to sweat, groove, and celebrate the culture that moves the streets of New Orleans. All levels welcome.

4:00 pm- 5:30 pm

Grenadian Folkloric Dance with Dr. Shola K. Roberts

Through this workshop, the rich cultural heritage of Grenada is preserved while  participants  engage in a movement vocabulary that speaks to the polyrhythmic execution of the body. Participants will have the opportunity to navigate between principles like centering, alignment, gravity, use of breath, contraction and release, fall and recovery, balance and off-balance, tension and relaxation, opposition, succession, spiral, swing and momentum. Utilizing the genre of Soca music brings in a culturally relevant approach as it addresses the ever changing social element of  Caribbean culture.

5:45 pm- 7:15 pm

Afro-Brazilian Dance with Isaiah Tyrelle Boyd

This all-levels class kicks off with a full warm-up, then flows through high-energy, full-bodied steps that build into a complete combination. Drawing inspiration from Isaiah’s mentor Tania Santiago, the class explores traditional Afro-Brazilian movement with a contemporary flair, all in a way that’s fun, accessible, and welcoming to everyone.

7:30 pm- 9:00 pm

West African (Guinean) Dance with Youssouf Koumbassa

Experience the power and beauty of traditional Guinean dance with master artist Youssouf Koumbassa. This high-energy class features live drumming and focuses on the rhythms, movement, and cultural significance of dances from Guinea, West Africa.

12:15 pm-1:00 pm (Festival Participants)

Orisha Song Class with Baba Sekou Alaje

Learn traditional Cuban Orisha songs honoring the divine spirits through sacred chants and call-and-response. Connect with ancestral rhythms and spiritual practice.

1:15 pm-2:45 pm (Festival Participants)

All White Diaspora Class with Balbancha Dance Festival Teachers

Experience a powerful journey through the African Diaspora with dynamic dances from Haiti, Cuba, and Brazil. This class honors ancestral roots through movement, rhythm, and ritual expression.

3:00 pm (Open to the Public)

Second Line to Congo Square

Join us with a live second line band as we march from the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Center to the Ancestor Tree in Congo Square. This vibrant procession pays homage to the ancestors and culture bearers who shaped the soul of New Orleans.